Your Supreme Sacrifice

Dear God,

I bow my head before You, Lord Jesus. Because You are sinless, but You took on my sins and that of the whole world, and I cannot think of the right words to thank You enough for Your supreme sacrifice.

This afternoon, DS, DD, and I talked about heaven, and how that place is -- it's purity, beauty, and perfection. We talked about how You were a willing servant to leave Your throne in heaven, come to Earth, and suffer unspeakable hardship -- and even more -- so that we all would have a way to spend eternity with You. Nothing else could be more beautiful and perfect than that act of love from You.

As for myself, Lord, I don't know if I will ever understand fully why You made that supreme sacrifice. I am unworthy of it, I know. But from my innermost being, I want to sing and shout praises to You, and to tell the whole world what You did for all of us.

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins,
and not only for ours
but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:2

Sharing The Gift Of Salvation

Dear God,

I think my greatest responsibility as a Christian is to share the gift of salvation with other people. The Bible clearly says that it is not a choice or option. You love me as Your own daughter and saved me by Your grace and through faith alone.

Years ago, a classmate in College was willing to be a good steward of this wonderful gift that she shared Your gospel with me. Most of the time I fail and forget to minister this gift to others. Lord, I do not want to be guilty of such neglect and forgetfulness.

There is my family, my neighbors, even my own children -- so many precious people need to hear Your Word. they all need to have the same opportunity to accept You as their personal Lord and Savior. God, please make me attentive and at the same time, sensitive to each opportunity You prepare for me each day to share Your Word. Thank You, Father.

Each of you should use whatever gift
you have received to serve others,
as faithful stewards of God’s grace
in its various forms.
1 Peter 4: 10

Praying For Those Who Lead

Dear God,

Sometimes I find myself hesitating at the thought of anyone, -- other than You of course, -- having to rule over me... I often think about wanting to submit to You alone and not have to listen to other people.

As I read my Bible about the Israelites in their journey in the wilderness, I clearly see that they are against Moses' leadership. But in truth, they were grumbling about You, Lord. When we complain about those in authority over us, it's almost the same as griping against You. Most of the time I find myself fall into that trap, Lord...

My DS and DD sould also learn to respect authority. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Your Word says that we should bless our leaders and those in authority and to respect them, because they are Yours. Their rule is not as hard to take when I am praying for them -- for you to guide them. Show me how to encourage and to be an inspiration of peace and submission in my family, God.

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters,
to acknowledge those who work hard among you,
who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.
Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.
Live in peace with each other.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Patient Love

Dear God,

Thank You because You have given me a wonderful example of patient love. When I am losing patience with my own children, other people in the workplace, or even with random things happening in my life, I recall how long You have waited for me to repent and turn to You. I was so slow to do that, I know...

Despite my stubbornness, You waited for me. You love me even when I would not acknowledge You presence. My heart breaks with the weight of my sin against You, Lord. I praise You and thank You for being so enduring.

Just the same, I want to learn to endure for my DS's and DD's sake... When they both do wrong, I want them to admit it immediately and ask for forgiveness. From your example with me, I know there are times I need to wait for their repentance. Please help me wait, Lord.

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,
as some understand slowness.
Instead he is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish,
but everyone to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9