The soul is the imprint God leaves on each one of His image bearers. It’s where the mind, body, emotions, and our will meet intersect to form who we truly are. If our souls are the culmination of our entire being, it should be of utmost importance to care for it well. This book is an attempt to shape our souls towards health and maturity in every area of life. Why? Because no aspect of our lives should be left untouched by God. From leading a business, running a church, washing the dishes, or doing laundry, God intends to be in our everything. May these prayers serve you well and be a place where not only your mind would be changed, but your heart. Not because of winsome words or well crafted sentences, but because the Spirit of God is working through these pages working in both you and I illuminating our eyes towards greater truth, love, and beauty only found in God. Amen.
MUNDANE LIFE
May the mundane become beautiful before my eyes, God. From washing the dishes, doing the week's slightly tangy laundry, making my bed before heading out for the day, may I see you within it all. Though I tend to see you, God within the big moments full of prayer, worship, and excitement in the air, may your glory be made manifest between peanut butter jelly sandwiches and Clorox wipes used for a dirty desk. May these words ring true above all else, “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) Amen.
May the mundane become beautiful before my eyes, God. From washing the dishes, doing the week's slightly tangy laundry, making my bed before heading out for the day, may I see you within it all. Though I tend to see you, God within the big moments full of prayer, worship, and excitement in the air, may your glory be made manifest between peanut butter jelly sandwiches and Clorox wipes used for a dirty desk. May these words ring true above all else, “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) Amen.
STRENGTH FROM GOD
I am tired, yet full of your Spirit. God, would you give me energy for this day? The work day is long, the day is joyful yet tiring, would you give me the energy only you can provide? Not for my sake alone, but for the ways in which I can love richly, walk humbly, and listen attentively. I long to be a person who seeks after you in word and deed, so Father please help me in this holy endeavor that you have called all your children towards. It’s to the Father, by The Son, and through The Spirit that I pray, amen.
I am tired, yet full of your Spirit. God, would you give me energy for this day? The work day is long, the day is joyful yet tiring, would you give me the energy only you can provide? Not for my sake alone, but for the ways in which I can love richly, walk humbly, and listen attentively. I long to be a person who seeks after you in word and deed, so Father please help me in this holy endeavor that you have called all your children towards. It’s to the Father, by The Son, and through The Spirit that I pray, amen.
TREASURING GOD
Before I do work for God, may the greatest treasure for my soul be to bask within His presence. Having the privilege of serving this world as a light in the midst of darkness is a gift is like no other job in the world. To hear the stories of a life apart from God, see people who have yet to become transformed by the Gospel, but before I can venture into this glorious work I must first tend to my soul. When I become irritable, cold hearted, and short tempered, it stems from a lack of relying on God. When I listen well, incline my heart to others in need, and seek ways to serve, I have abided in the vine of God well. May I seek to love God before I aim to do the work of God, because presence is better than sacrifice. Amen.
Before I do work for God, may the greatest treasure for my soul be to bask within His presence. Having the privilege of serving this world as a light in the midst of darkness is a gift is like no other job in the world. To hear the stories of a life apart from God, see people who have yet to become transformed by the Gospel, but before I can venture into this glorious work I must first tend to my soul. When I become irritable, cold hearted, and short tempered, it stems from a lack of relying on God. When I listen well, incline my heart to others in need, and seek ways to serve, I have abided in the vine of God well. May I seek to love God before I aim to do the work of God, because presence is better than sacrifice. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING
May my days be filled with your word God. Your words are a lamp to my feet, a melody to my ears, and the one thing I can return to when my mind ceases to conjure up words that remind me who you say you are God. May I never neglect to read your word because it is nourishment for my soul, may I commit it to memory so I can keep truth tucked within the crevices of my heart, and may these words be lived out through my earthbound body because your word is living and acting. Amen.
May my days be filled with your word God. Your words are a lamp to my feet, a melody to my ears, and the one thing I can return to when my mind ceases to conjure up words that remind me who you say you are God. May I never neglect to read your word because it is nourishment for my soul, may I commit it to memory so I can keep truth tucked within the crevices of my heart, and may these words be lived out through my earthbound body because your word is living and acting. Amen.
COMMUNAL LIVING
God, may I learn that you have built me to need others. The lies I so often believe that permeate our culture is that I can live without the help of others, I can sustain my own life, and that others are fine without my involvement in their life. What if I began to believe that the good life God had
for me was on the other side of genuine connection with others? Where sharing meals with brothers and sisters in the family of God became normative, knowing the stories of the family of God was common, and interceding for their souls so that they would grow richly in Christ become an essential part of your life because of your deep love for them. May I realize that a true dependence on you involves the family of God. Amen.
God, may I learn that you have built me to need others. The lies I so often believe that permeate our culture is that I can live without the help of others, I can sustain my own life, and that others are fine without my involvement in their life. What if I began to believe that the good life God had
for me was on the other side of genuine connection with others? Where sharing meals with brothers and sisters in the family of God became normative, knowing the stories of the family of God was common, and interceding for their souls so that they would grow richly in Christ become an essential part of your life because of your deep love for them. May I realize that a true dependence on you involves the family of God. Amen.
HEARING THE VOICE OF GOD
God I long for your voice. I’ve gone days and weeks of not hearing you like I did before. No echoes of laughter with you, no remnants of seeing you delight with me, not remembering what its like to have a sense of peace in your arms has left me searching for everything but you. Holy Spirit, come again. Grant me the serenity you naturally have, place in me the love of the Father you’ve enjoyed for all of eternity, only in you will I gain the joy of the Lord again. It’s through that sweet Holy Spirit that I pray, amen.
God I long for your voice. I’ve gone days and weeks of not hearing you like I did before. No echoes of laughter with you, no remnants of seeing you delight with me, not remembering what its like to have a sense of peace in your arms has left me searching for everything but you. Holy Spirit, come again. Grant me the serenity you naturally have, place in me the love of the Father you’ve enjoyed for all of eternity, only in you will I gain the joy of the Lord again. It’s through that sweet Holy Spirit that I pray, amen.
HOMESICK FOR GOD
My heart is homesick, God. I miss my family, my friends, and the familiar smell of the house I learned to call home. Yet this is only the shadow of what we truly want, a home with God. We long for the day when we can be one with God and cease from our efforts of striving and just have a place where peace and ease come easily as the air we breathe. God would you help when I miss those I love with deep passion? All my love for them pales in comparison to the ways in which you sovereignly watch and care for their needs, may I trust that you watch over them and allow my heart to be at peace with that knowledge. When I long for my home, may I remember you are my true home who welcomes me for all of eternity. Above all, may I learn to trust you for all the days of my life, amen.
My heart is homesick, God. I miss my family, my friends, and the familiar smell of the house I learned to call home. Yet this is only the shadow of what we truly want, a home with God. We long for the day when we can be one with God and cease from our efforts of striving and just have a place where peace and ease come easily as the air we breathe. God would you help when I miss those I love with deep passion? All my love for them pales in comparison to the ways in which you sovereignly watch and care for their needs, may I trust that you watch over them and allow my heart to be at peace with that knowledge. When I long for my home, may I remember you are my true home who welcomes me for all of eternity. Above all, may I learn to trust you for all the days of my life, amen.
GRATITUDE FOR GOD
I feel deep gratitude as I have the opportunity to simply be in this church, Lord. Though I have skills and competencies others may see, I fully realize I’m only in this position because of your anointing on my life. In my own power I’m frail and incapable of much, with your Spirit I’m empowered to live and proclaim the truth of the Gospel in word and deed. I know not everyday will be perfect and many will be full of hardships, may this all be so your name would be glorified and my soul sanctified to grow in deeper union with you. Father, thank you for allowing me to grow through this church and allowing me to grow in deeper gratitude for this world. Amen.
I feel deep gratitude as I have the opportunity to simply be in this church, Lord. Though I have skills and competencies others may see, I fully realize I’m only in this position because of your anointing on my life. In my own power I’m frail and incapable of much, with your Spirit I’m empowered to live and proclaim the truth of the Gospel in word and deed. I know not everyday will be perfect and many will be full of hardships, may this all be so your name would be glorified and my soul sanctified to grow in deeper union with you. Father, thank you for allowing me to grow through this church and allowing me to grow in deeper gratitude for this world. Amen.
PEACE WITH GOD
May my Spirit be at peace with you, God. I hear the promises of scripture of you being a God of deliverance and my heart shines with gladness, I see the beauty of your creation and happiness is found everywhere, and in a world filled with sin and sorrow, may I be able to fix my eyes on your goodness until I find you smiling down at me with the love only a perfect Father could give. It’s in the moments of sweetness and gladness with you, that my soul is able to remember you in the shadows and sorrows. Thank you God, for it is when I am with you that I know I have found my heart's true content. Amen.
May my Spirit be at peace with you, God. I hear the promises of scripture of you being a God of deliverance and my heart shines with gladness, I see the beauty of your creation and happiness is found everywhere, and in a world filled with sin and sorrow, may I be able to fix my eyes on your goodness until I find you smiling down at me with the love only a perfect Father could give. It’s in the moments of sweetness and gladness with you, that my soul is able to remember you in the shadows and sorrows. Thank you God, for it is when I am with you that I know I have found my heart's true content. Amen.
SABBATH
God, I’ve entered into this historic practice that has shaped your people for centuries called sabbath. Would you help me with this, God? In my uncertainty of what to do, when to wake up, how to love others well in this midst of pampering my soul, would your Spirit guide me through it all? This day is only a whisper of the full reality we will experience in eternal paradise with you, but oh what a good gift this truly is. The loudest echo of my soul is this, that I would learn to savor you, God, in all of your majesty and glory that stretches beyond what the mind could even imagine. May I remember this after the weeks when it feels as though resting on your holy day is everything but right, as well as when sabbath looks like the best day of the week. It’s to your name that we pray Father, amen.
God, I’ve entered into this historic practice that has shaped your people for centuries called sabbath. Would you help me with this, God? In my uncertainty of what to do, when to wake up, how to love others well in this midst of pampering my soul, would your Spirit guide me through it all? This day is only a whisper of the full reality we will experience in eternal paradise with you, but oh what a good gift this truly is. The loudest echo of my soul is this, that I would learn to savor you, God, in all of your majesty and glory that stretches beyond what the mind could even imagine. May I remember this after the weeks when it feels as though resting on your holy day is everything but right, as well as when sabbath looks like the best day of the week. It’s to your name that we pray Father, amen.
JOY
Though a discipline not often discussed, the practice of joy is of utmost importance. Not because one aims to ignore the realities of life and the sorrows that come with it, we practice joy so that we learn to seek the face of God even when life is morrow and meek on every side. Joy is the embodiment of the soul communing with God, delighting in God, through the Spirit of God so that we would learn to be content in all circumstances. May we be those who seek joy, for the character of God is the perfect embodiment of joy in its truest form. Amen.
Though a discipline not often discussed, the practice of joy is of utmost importance. Not because one aims to ignore the realities of life and the sorrows that come with it, we practice joy so that we learn to seek the face of God even when life is morrow and meek on every side. Joy is the embodiment of the soul communing with God, delighting in God, through the Spirit of God so that we would learn to be content in all circumstances. May we be those who seek joy, for the character of God is the perfect embodiment of joy in its truest form. Amen.
FASTING
In a world of quick satisfaction, may we be those who are patient to find their fill with God through fasting. Fasting is often forgotten about practice yet it’s the exact place where we learn that our desires are not ultimate to who we are. We learn to sacrifice our immediate wants for the ultimate satisfaction of allowing God to fill our cup. Our longing for food is replaced with the power of God through seeking him in our weakest and most fragile state of deep hunger. Ultimately we fast because it’s lived out theology, our flesh is uniquely bound to this practice which allows us to remember our whole being including our bodies is cared for by God. We are whole beings of mind, body, and soul that aim to be loved by God and may fasting aid us in this great endeavor. Amen.
In a world of quick satisfaction, may we be those who are patient to find their fill with God through fasting. Fasting is often forgotten about practice yet it’s the exact place where we learn that our desires are not ultimate to who we are. We learn to sacrifice our immediate wants for the ultimate satisfaction of allowing God to fill our cup. Our longing for food is replaced with the power of God through seeking him in our weakest and most fragile state of deep hunger. Ultimately we fast because it’s lived out theology, our flesh is uniquely bound to this practice which allows us to remember our whole being including our bodies is cared for by God. We are whole beings of mind, body, and soul that aim to be loved by God and may fasting aid us in this great endeavor. Amen.
LONGING FOR PEACE
I can feel my nerves begin to tense up, anxiety begin to swell, so I close my eyes and begin to do the only thing I know, pray to you God. Would you help me to realize that the desire of your heart is for your glory to shine, your people to be well taken care of, and for me to know that my participation in this holy endeavor is good and right, will ultimately be under your rule and reign because you care for your world better than I ever could. When I feel my body begin to repeat the cycle of discomfort and unease over what could go wrong, may I learn to trust God before my own gifts and abilities. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
I can feel my nerves begin to tense up, anxiety begin to swell, so I close my eyes and begin to do the only thing I know, pray to you God. Would you help me to realize that the desire of your heart is for your glory to shine, your people to be well taken care of, and for me to know that my participation in this holy endeavor is good and right, will ultimately be under your rule and reign because you care for your world better than I ever could. When I feel my body begin to repeat the cycle of discomfort and unease over what could go wrong, may I learn to trust God before my own gifts and abilities. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
THE COVERING OF GOD
God, would you cover me once again? Cover me with the arms that uphold all of heaven and earth. Cover me with words only your Spirit could create. Cover me with love only a cross could bare. God I am weak, but you are strong, so I ask in humble obedience, would you cover me with your grace once again? The stars are held in constellations with a simple glare into the expanse of the sky, the mountains are put into place with a lift of your finger, and my soul is crafted out of your divine mind that showcases your strength and creativity. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
God, would you cover me once again? Cover me with the arms that uphold all of heaven and earth. Cover me with words only your Spirit could create. Cover me with love only a cross could bare. God I am weak, but you are strong, so I ask in humble obedience, would you cover me with your grace once again? The stars are held in constellations with a simple glare into the expanse of the sky, the mountains are put into place with a lift of your finger, and my soul is crafted out of your divine mind that showcases your strength and creativity. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
THANKFULNESS FOR CHURCH
Thank you God for the members of Disciple First Church. From their joyful laughs, big smiles, bright personalities, and welcoming presence, I’m at home with these people. These people have made my belly ache from laughter, sought to exhort and encourage me, and been the reminder that Jesus is with me in the everyday moments of life. Would you help me to love these other members? They are the means of what community will look like for this season. May I seek them out so that we would be friends that don’t just talk about the superficial, may we be those who know each other on a soul deep level that very few people ever reach. May I know the stories that have shaped these people into who they are today. It’s in the knowing that the joy of God will be made manifest before our eyes. May this be a reality during this time with your cherished sons and daughters God, amen.
Thank you God for the members of Disciple First Church. From their joyful laughs, big smiles, bright personalities, and welcoming presence, I’m at home with these people. These people have made my belly ache from laughter, sought to exhort and encourage me, and been the reminder that Jesus is with me in the everyday moments of life. Would you help me to love these other members? They are the means of what community will look like for this season. May I seek them out so that we would be friends that don’t just talk about the superficial, may we be those who know each other on a soul deep level that very few people ever reach. May I know the stories that have shaped these people into who they are today. It’s in the knowing that the joy of God will be made manifest before our eyes. May this be a reality during this time with your cherished sons and daughters God, amen.
UNEXPECTED LIFE
God, this season isn’t what I expected. While I knew that a life wouldn’t be easy or without trials, I didn’t know just how much I would be pushed into relying on you. Work filled with last minute changes, lunches cut short, insensitive comments made towards me, at the end of the day I’m exhausted from it all. Would you sustain me God? For when I am weak, you are my stronghold. Would you give me wisdom God? When I am frail and without words, you are infinite and all knowing. May I savor dependence on you because you alone are why any of this is possible. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
God, this season isn’t what I expected. While I knew that a life wouldn’t be easy or without trials, I didn’t know just how much I would be pushed into relying on you. Work filled with last minute changes, lunches cut short, insensitive comments made towards me, at the end of the day I’m exhausted from it all. Would you sustain me God? For when I am weak, you are my stronghold. Would you give me wisdom God? When I am frail and without words, you are infinite and all knowing. May I savor dependence on you because you alone are why any of this is possible. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
PRAYER
To know you is to trust you, God. The saints of old throughout all of history have used one vital path to know who you are, prayer. What other path is there to learn to commune and delight in you outside of entering into your presence through prayer? It’s the place where we come to be heard, lay our hearts out, and reveal the inner depths of who we truly are to the God who knows it all before we’ve ever said a word. We can come to you not just to speak, but to hear from you God. You speak life into our souls, conviction in our hearts, and allow us to hear your seemingly silent voice so we would learn to keep longing for the day when we can hear your voice with piercing clarity once again. What a gift it is to enjoy you Father, it's to your name and through your Holy Spirit that we pray, amen.
To know you is to trust you, God. The saints of old throughout all of history have used one vital path to know who you are, prayer. What other path is there to learn to commune and delight in you outside of entering into your presence through prayer? It’s the place where we come to be heard, lay our hearts out, and reveal the inner depths of who we truly are to the God who knows it all before we’ve ever said a word. We can come to you not just to speak, but to hear from you God. You speak life into our souls, conviction in our hearts, and allow us to hear your seemingly silent voice so we would learn to keep longing for the day when we can hear your voice with piercing clarity once again. What a gift it is to enjoy you Father, it's to your name and through your Holy Spirit that we pray, amen.
GENEROSITY
God, you are Lord of all. You have provided for me in times of desperation and in times of scarcity, and you’re faithful. You provided me with the opportunity to experience life and life to the full. And in your great wisdom you have called us to give. Our hearts are uniquely tied to our resources because they are tied to our sense of security, safety, and well being. Would you allow me to see that you would never call us to sacrifice more than you’re willing to provide for? Would you show me that my generosity is a kingdom asset and not a possession to tightly hold on to? May I grow in generosity so that my heart would grow into a heart of love for the good of others and glory of God. Amen.
God, you are Lord of all. You have provided for me in times of desperation and in times of scarcity, and you’re faithful. You provided me with the opportunity to experience life and life to the full. And in your great wisdom you have called us to give. Our hearts are uniquely tied to our resources because they are tied to our sense of security, safety, and well being. Would you allow me to see that you would never call us to sacrifice more than you’re willing to provide for? Would you show me that my generosity is a kingdom asset and not a possession to tightly hold on to? May I grow in generosity so that my heart would grow into a heart of love for the good of others and glory of God. Amen.
SEEKING GODS LOVE
God, shield me from my own heart. So often in life I can hear the faint whispers of the enemy calling me towards pride, envy, and comparison. And if I’m honest, I listen to them a lot more than I would like to admit. So God I come to you again asking, would your loving arms cover me once again? When the throws of life seem to rock me to and fro, would you pull me back into your warm embrace? For it is in your hands and yours alone that peace can be known and experienced for all that it truly is. It’s through your Spirit that I pray, amen.
God, shield me from my own heart. So often in life I can hear the faint whispers of the enemy calling me towards pride, envy, and comparison. And if I’m honest, I listen to them a lot more than I would like to admit. So God I come to you again asking, would your loving arms cover me once again? When the throws of life seem to rock me to and fro, would you pull me back into your warm embrace? For it is in your hands and yours alone that peace can be known and experienced for all that it truly is. It’s through your Spirit that I pray, amen.
MAJESTY OF GOD
How majestic is your name Lord? The earth trembles at your voice, kings shutter in your presence, rulers bow down before you, yet you came down to be with me? The one who judges harshly, sins often, forgets you quickly, you’ve decided to settle your Spirit within my body and call it good despite knowing everything about me, how can this be? Because you’re a God of grace. A God who gets in the dirt, muddies himself, and puts on robes of rubble in exchange for his robes of glory. That is the God we worship, behold before our eyes, and worship with all of our being, amen.
How majestic is your name Lord? The earth trembles at your voice, kings shutter in your presence, rulers bow down before you, yet you came down to be with me? The one who judges harshly, sins often, forgets you quickly, you’ve decided to settle your Spirit within my body and call it good despite knowing everything about me, how can this be? Because you’re a God of grace. A God who gets in the dirt, muddies himself, and puts on robes of rubble in exchange for his robes of glory. That is the God we worship, behold before our eyes, and worship with all of our being, amen.
SEEKING THE FACE OF GOD
My heart is distraught. In the middle of a season where it feels like I’m exactly where God has called me to be, life is full, I’ve suddenly found myself in the middle of deep pain. An experience in this world has caused my soul to ache for a world of nothing but wholeness and beauty because what lay before me is sin and ruin. Would you show me your face again God? I know in my mind you’re with me breathing air into my lungs, and wind beneath my feet, but would your Spirit give comfort to my soul bringing to mind the splendor of God’s beautiful character? Help me to live in the tension of two realities, God. My bones and my soul ache for restoration of this broken world and that God has made this world with a caring hand full of His goodness. May my soul learn to be content in every season of life through humble obedience to you God, amen.
My heart is distraught. In the middle of a season where it feels like I’m exactly where God has called me to be, life is full, I’ve suddenly found myself in the middle of deep pain. An experience in this world has caused my soul to ache for a world of nothing but wholeness and beauty because what lay before me is sin and ruin. Would you show me your face again God? I know in my mind you’re with me breathing air into my lungs, and wind beneath my feet, but would your Spirit give comfort to my soul bringing to mind the splendor of God’s beautiful character? Help me to live in the tension of two realities, God. My bones and my soul ache for restoration of this broken world and that God has made this world with a caring hand full of His goodness. May my soul learn to be content in every season of life through humble obedience to you God, amen.
As you read these words, may they seep into your very being and be a catalyst for the work the Spirit of God is longing to do in your life. But above all else, may this bring you a deep sense of joy, peace, and rest. In a culture of hustle and nonstop work, may this serve as a way for you to slow down your mind and soul. In times of hardship, may this remind you of the good that God brought to you in this season. May this be a landmark moment of your life where you can look back with a genuine smile and see the effects this church has had on the entirety of your life. May Psalm 115 be the cry of our hearts for years to come. Blessings friends.
The soul is the imprint God leaves on each one of His image bearers. It’s where the mind, body, emotions, and our will meet intersect to form who we truly are. If our souls are the culmination of our entire being, it should be of utmost importance to care for it well. This book is an attempt to shape our souls towards health and maturity in every area of life. Why? Because no aspect of our lives should be left untouched by God. From leading a business, running a church, washing the dishes, or doing laundry, God intends to be in our everything. May these prayers serve you well and be a place where not only your mind would be changed, but your heart. Not because of winsome words or well crafted sentences, but because the Spirit of God is working through these pages working in both you and I illuminating our eyes towards greater truth, love, and beauty only found in God. Amen.
MUNDANE LIFE
May the mundane become beautiful before my eyes, God. From washing the dishes, doing the week's slightly tangy laundry, making my bed before heading out for the day, may I see you within it all. Though I tend to see you, God within the big moments full of prayer, worship, and excitement in the air, may your glory be made manifest between peanut butter jelly sandwiches and Clorox wipes used for a dirty desk. May these words ring true above all else, “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) Amen.
May the mundane become beautiful before my eyes, God. From washing the dishes, doing the week's slightly tangy laundry, making my bed before heading out for the day, may I see you within it all. Though I tend to see you, God within the big moments full of prayer, worship, and excitement in the air, may your glory be made manifest between peanut butter jelly sandwiches and Clorox wipes used for a dirty desk. May these words ring true above all else, “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) Amen.
STRENGTH FROM GOD
I am tired, yet full of your Spirit. God, would you give me energy for this day? The work day is long, the day is joyful yet tiring, would you give me the energy only you can provide? Not for my sake alone, but for the ways in which I can love richly, walk humbly, and listen attentively. I long to be a person who seeks after you in word and deed, so Father please help me in this holy endeavor that you have called all your children towards. It’s to the Father, by The Son, and through The Spirit that I pray, amen.
I am tired, yet full of your Spirit. God, would you give me energy for this day? The work day is long, the day is joyful yet tiring, would you give me the energy only you can provide? Not for my sake alone, but for the ways in which I can love richly, walk humbly, and listen attentively. I long to be a person who seeks after you in word and deed, so Father please help me in this holy endeavor that you have called all your children towards. It’s to the Father, by The Son, and through The Spirit that I pray, amen.
TREASURING GOD
Before I do work for God, may the greatest treasure for my soul be to bask within His presence. Having the privilege of serving this world as a light in the midst of darkness is a gift is like no other job in the world. To hear the stories of a life apart from God, see people who have yet to become transformed by the Gospel, but before I can venture into this glorious work I must first tend to my soul. When I become irritable, cold hearted, and short tempered, it stems from a lack of relying on God. When I listen well, incline my heart to others in need, and seek ways to serve, I have abided in the vine of God well. May I seek to love God before I aim to do the work of God, because presence is better than sacrifice. Amen.
Before I do work for God, may the greatest treasure for my soul be to bask within His presence. Having the privilege of serving this world as a light in the midst of darkness is a gift is like no other job in the world. To hear the stories of a life apart from God, see people who have yet to become transformed by the Gospel, but before I can venture into this glorious work I must first tend to my soul. When I become irritable, cold hearted, and short tempered, it stems from a lack of relying on God. When I listen well, incline my heart to others in need, and seek ways to serve, I have abided in the vine of God well. May I seek to love God before I aim to do the work of God, because presence is better than sacrifice. Amen.
SCRIPTURE READING
May my days be filled with your word God. Your words are a lamp to my feet, a melody to my ears, and the one thing I can return to when my mind ceases to conjure up words that remind me who you say you are God. May I never neglect to read your word because it is nourishment for my soul, may I commit it to memory so I can keep truth tucked within the crevices of my heart, and may these words be lived out through my earthbound body because your word is living and acting. Amen.
May my days be filled with your word God. Your words are a lamp to my feet, a melody to my ears, and the one thing I can return to when my mind ceases to conjure up words that remind me who you say you are God. May I never neglect to read your word because it is nourishment for my soul, may I commit it to memory so I can keep truth tucked within the crevices of my heart, and may these words be lived out through my earthbound body because your word is living and acting. Amen.
COMMUNAL LIVING
God, may I learn that you have built me to need others. The lies I so often believe that permeate our culture is that I can live without the help of others, I can sustain my own life, and that others are fine without my involvement in their life. What if I began to believe that the good life God had
for me was on the other side of genuine connection with others? Where sharing meals with brothers and sisters in the family of God became normative, knowing the stories of the family of God was common, and interceding for their souls so that they would grow richly in Christ become an essential part of your life because of your deep love for them. May I realize that a true dependence on you involves the family of God. Amen.
God, may I learn that you have built me to need others. The lies I so often believe that permeate our culture is that I can live without the help of others, I can sustain my own life, and that others are fine without my involvement in their life. What if I began to believe that the good life God had
for me was on the other side of genuine connection with others? Where sharing meals with brothers and sisters in the family of God became normative, knowing the stories of the family of God was common, and interceding for their souls so that they would grow richly in Christ become an essential part of your life because of your deep love for them. May I realize that a true dependence on you involves the family of God. Amen.
HEARING THE VOICE OF GOD
God I long for your voice. I’ve gone days and weeks of not hearing you like I did before. No echoes of laughter with you, no remnants of seeing you delight with me, not remembering what its like to have a sense of peace in your arms has left me searching for everything but you. Holy Spirit, come again. Grant me the serenity you naturally have, place in me the love of the Father you’ve enjoyed for all of eternity, only in you will I gain the joy of the Lord again. It’s through that sweet Holy Spirit that I pray, amen.
God I long for your voice. I’ve gone days and weeks of not hearing you like I did before. No echoes of laughter with you, no remnants of seeing you delight with me, not remembering what its like to have a sense of peace in your arms has left me searching for everything but you. Holy Spirit, come again. Grant me the serenity you naturally have, place in me the love of the Father you’ve enjoyed for all of eternity, only in you will I gain the joy of the Lord again. It’s through that sweet Holy Spirit that I pray, amen.
HOMESICK FOR GOD
My heart is homesick, God. I miss my family, my friends, and the familiar smell of the house I learned to call home. Yet this is only the shadow of what we truly want, a home with God. We long for the day when we can be one with God and cease from our efforts of striving and just have a place where peace and ease come easily as the air we breathe. God would you help when I miss those I love with deep passion? All my love for them pales in comparison to the ways in which you sovereignly watch and care for their needs, may I trust that you watch over them and allow my heart to be at peace with that knowledge. When I long for my home, may I remember you are my true home who welcomes me for all of eternity. Above all, may I learn to trust you for all the days of my life, amen.
My heart is homesick, God. I miss my family, my friends, and the familiar smell of the house I learned to call home. Yet this is only the shadow of what we truly want, a home with God. We long for the day when we can be one with God and cease from our efforts of striving and just have a place where peace and ease come easily as the air we breathe. God would you help when I miss those I love with deep passion? All my love for them pales in comparison to the ways in which you sovereignly watch and care for their needs, may I trust that you watch over them and allow my heart to be at peace with that knowledge. When I long for my home, may I remember you are my true home who welcomes me for all of eternity. Above all, may I learn to trust you for all the days of my life, amen.
GRATITUDE FOR GOD
I feel deep gratitude as I have the opportunity to simply be in this church, Lord. Though I have skills and competencies others may see, I fully realize I’m only in this position because of your anointing on my life. In my own power I’m frail and incapable of much, with your Spirit I’m empowered to live and proclaim the truth of the Gospel in word and deed. I know not everyday will be perfect and many will be full of hardships, may this all be so your name would be glorified and my soul sanctified to grow in deeper union with you. Father, thank you for allowing me to grow through this church and allowing me to grow in deeper gratitude for this world. Amen.
I feel deep gratitude as I have the opportunity to simply be in this church, Lord. Though I have skills and competencies others may see, I fully realize I’m only in this position because of your anointing on my life. In my own power I’m frail and incapable of much, with your Spirit I’m empowered to live and proclaim the truth of the Gospel in word and deed. I know not everyday will be perfect and many will be full of hardships, may this all be so your name would be glorified and my soul sanctified to grow in deeper union with you. Father, thank you for allowing me to grow through this church and allowing me to grow in deeper gratitude for this world. Amen.
PEACE WITH GOD
May my Spirit be at peace with you, God. I hear the promises of scripture of you being a God of deliverance and my heart shines with gladness, I see the beauty of your creation and happiness is found everywhere, and in a world filled with sin and sorrow, may I be able to fix my eyes on your goodness until I find you smiling down at me with the love only a perfect Father could give. It’s in the moments of sweetness and gladness with you, that my soul is able to remember you in the shadows and sorrows. Thank you God, for it is when I am with you that I know I have found my heart's true content. Amen.
May my Spirit be at peace with you, God. I hear the promises of scripture of you being a God of deliverance and my heart shines with gladness, I see the beauty of your creation and happiness is found everywhere, and in a world filled with sin and sorrow, may I be able to fix my eyes on your goodness until I find you smiling down at me with the love only a perfect Father could give. It’s in the moments of sweetness and gladness with you, that my soul is able to remember you in the shadows and sorrows. Thank you God, for it is when I am with you that I know I have found my heart's true content. Amen.
SABBATH
God, I’ve entered into this historic practice that has shaped your people for centuries called sabbath. Would you help me with this, God? In my uncertainty of what to do, when to wake up, how to love others well in this midst of pampering my soul, would your Spirit guide me through it all? This day is only a whisper of the full reality we will experience in eternal paradise with you, but oh what a good gift this truly is. The loudest echo of my soul is this, that I would learn to savor you, God, in all of your majesty and glory that stretches beyond what the mind could even imagine. May I remember this after the weeks when it feels as though resting on your holy day is everything but right, as well as when sabbath looks like the best day of the week. It’s to your name that we pray Father, amen.
God, I’ve entered into this historic practice that has shaped your people for centuries called sabbath. Would you help me with this, God? In my uncertainty of what to do, when to wake up, how to love others well in this midst of pampering my soul, would your Spirit guide me through it all? This day is only a whisper of the full reality we will experience in eternal paradise with you, but oh what a good gift this truly is. The loudest echo of my soul is this, that I would learn to savor you, God, in all of your majesty and glory that stretches beyond what the mind could even imagine. May I remember this after the weeks when it feels as though resting on your holy day is everything but right, as well as when sabbath looks like the best day of the week. It’s to your name that we pray Father, amen.
JOY
Though a discipline not often discussed, the practice of joy is of utmost importance. Not because one aims to ignore the realities of life and the sorrows that come with it, we practice joy so that we learn to seek the face of God even when life is morrow and meek on every side. Joy is the embodiment of the soul communing with God, delighting in God, through the Spirit of God so that we would learn to be content in all circumstances. May we be those who seek joy, for the character of God is the perfect embodiment of joy in its truest form. Amen.
Though a discipline not often discussed, the practice of joy is of utmost importance. Not because one aims to ignore the realities of life and the sorrows that come with it, we practice joy so that we learn to seek the face of God even when life is morrow and meek on every side. Joy is the embodiment of the soul communing with God, delighting in God, through the Spirit of God so that we would learn to be content in all circumstances. May we be those who seek joy, for the character of God is the perfect embodiment of joy in its truest form. Amen.
FASTING
In a world of quick satisfaction, may we be those who are patient to find their fill with God through fasting. Fasting is often forgotten about practice yet it’s the exact place where we learn that our desires are not ultimate to who we are. We learn to sacrifice our immediate wants for the ultimate satisfaction of allowing God to fill our cup. Our longing for food is replaced with the power of God through seeking him in our weakest and most fragile state of deep hunger. Ultimately we fast because it’s lived out theology, our flesh is uniquely bound to this practice which allows us to remember our whole being including our bodies is cared for by God. We are whole beings of mind, body, and soul that aim to be loved by God and may fasting aid us in this great endeavor. Amen.
In a world of quick satisfaction, may we be those who are patient to find their fill with God through fasting. Fasting is often forgotten about practice yet it’s the exact place where we learn that our desires are not ultimate to who we are. We learn to sacrifice our immediate wants for the ultimate satisfaction of allowing God to fill our cup. Our longing for food is replaced with the power of God through seeking him in our weakest and most fragile state of deep hunger. Ultimately we fast because it’s lived out theology, our flesh is uniquely bound to this practice which allows us to remember our whole being including our bodies is cared for by God. We are whole beings of mind, body, and soul that aim to be loved by God and may fasting aid us in this great endeavor. Amen.
LONGING FOR PEACE
I can feel my nerves begin to tense up, anxiety begin to swell, so I close my eyes and begin to do the only thing I know, pray to you God. Would you help me to realize that the desire of your heart is for your glory to shine, your people to be well taken care of, and for me to know that my participation in this holy endeavor is good and right, will ultimately be under your rule and reign because you care for your world better than I ever could. When I feel my body begin to repeat the cycle of discomfort and unease over what could go wrong, may I learn to trust God before my own gifts and abilities. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
I can feel my nerves begin to tense up, anxiety begin to swell, so I close my eyes and begin to do the only thing I know, pray to you God. Would you help me to realize that the desire of your heart is for your glory to shine, your people to be well taken care of, and for me to know that my participation in this holy endeavor is good and right, will ultimately be under your rule and reign because you care for your world better than I ever could. When I feel my body begin to repeat the cycle of discomfort and unease over what could go wrong, may I learn to trust God before my own gifts and abilities. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
THE COVERING OF GOD
God, would you cover me once again? Cover me with the arms that uphold all of heaven and earth. Cover me with words only your Spirit could create. Cover me with love only a cross could bare. God I am weak, but you are strong, so I ask in humble obedience, would you cover me with your grace once again? The stars are held in constellations with a simple glare into the expanse of the sky, the mountains are put into place with a lift of your finger, and my soul is crafted out of your divine mind that showcases your strength and creativity. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
God, would you cover me once again? Cover me with the arms that uphold all of heaven and earth. Cover me with words only your Spirit could create. Cover me with love only a cross could bare. God I am weak, but you are strong, so I ask in humble obedience, would you cover me with your grace once again? The stars are held in constellations with a simple glare into the expanse of the sky, the mountains are put into place with a lift of your finger, and my soul is crafted out of your divine mind that showcases your strength and creativity. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
THANKFULNESS FOR CHURCH
Thank you God for the members of Disciple First Church. From their joyful laughs, big smiles, bright personalities, and welcoming presence, I’m at home with these people. These people have made my belly ache from laughter, sought to exhort and encourage me, and been the reminder that Jesus is with me in the everyday moments of life. Would you help me to love these other members? They are the means of what community will look like for this season. May I seek them out so that we would be friends that don’t just talk about the superficial, may we be those who know each other on a soul deep level that very few people ever reach. May I know the stories that have shaped these people into who they are today. It’s in the knowing that the joy of God will be made manifest before our eyes. May this be a reality during this time with your cherished sons and daughters God, amen.
Thank you God for the members of Disciple First Church. From their joyful laughs, big smiles, bright personalities, and welcoming presence, I’m at home with these people. These people have made my belly ache from laughter, sought to exhort and encourage me, and been the reminder that Jesus is with me in the everyday moments of life. Would you help me to love these other members? They are the means of what community will look like for this season. May I seek them out so that we would be friends that don’t just talk about the superficial, may we be those who know each other on a soul deep level that very few people ever reach. May I know the stories that have shaped these people into who they are today. It’s in the knowing that the joy of God will be made manifest before our eyes. May this be a reality during this time with your cherished sons and daughters God, amen.
UNEXPECTED LIFE
God, this season isn’t what I expected. While I knew that a life wouldn’t be easy or without trials, I didn’t know just how much I would be pushed into relying on you. Work filled with last minute changes, lunches cut short, insensitive comments made towards me, at the end of the day I’m exhausted from it all. Would you sustain me God? For when I am weak, you are my stronghold. Would you give me wisdom God? When I am frail and without words, you are infinite and all knowing. May I savor dependence on you because you alone are why any of this is possible. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
God, this season isn’t what I expected. While I knew that a life wouldn’t be easy or without trials, I didn’t know just how much I would be pushed into relying on you. Work filled with last minute changes, lunches cut short, insensitive comments made towards me, at the end of the day I’m exhausted from it all. Would you sustain me God? For when I am weak, you are my stronghold. Would you give me wisdom God? When I am frail and without words, you are infinite and all knowing. May I savor dependence on you because you alone are why any of this is possible. It’s to your name that I pray, amen.
PRAYER
To know you is to trust you, God. The saints of old throughout all of history have used one vital path to know who you are, prayer. What other path is there to learn to commune and delight in you outside of entering into your presence through prayer? It’s the place where we come to be heard, lay our hearts out, and reveal the inner depths of who we truly are to the God who knows it all before we’ve ever said a word. We can come to you not just to speak, but to hear from you God. You speak life into our souls, conviction in our hearts, and allow us to hear your seemingly silent voice so we would learn to keep longing for the day when we can hear your voice with piercing clarity once again. What a gift it is to enjoy you Father, it's to your name and through your Holy Spirit that we pray, amen.
To know you is to trust you, God. The saints of old throughout all of history have used one vital path to know who you are, prayer. What other path is there to learn to commune and delight in you outside of entering into your presence through prayer? It’s the place where we come to be heard, lay our hearts out, and reveal the inner depths of who we truly are to the God who knows it all before we’ve ever said a word. We can come to you not just to speak, but to hear from you God. You speak life into our souls, conviction in our hearts, and allow us to hear your seemingly silent voice so we would learn to keep longing for the day when we can hear your voice with piercing clarity once again. What a gift it is to enjoy you Father, it's to your name and through your Holy Spirit that we pray, amen.
GENEROSITY
God, you are Lord of all. You have provided for me in times of desperation and in times of scarcity, and you’re faithful. You provided me with the opportunity to experience life and life to the full. And in your great wisdom you have called us to give. Our hearts are uniquely tied to our resources because they are tied to our sense of security, safety, and well being. Would you allow me to see that you would never call us to sacrifice more than you’re willing to provide for? Would you show me that my generosity is a kingdom asset and not a possession to tightly hold on to? May I grow in generosity so that my heart would grow into a heart of love for the good of others and glory of God. Amen.
God, you are Lord of all. You have provided for me in times of desperation and in times of scarcity, and you’re faithful. You provided me with the opportunity to experience life and life to the full. And in your great wisdom you have called us to give. Our hearts are uniquely tied to our resources because they are tied to our sense of security, safety, and well being. Would you allow me to see that you would never call us to sacrifice more than you’re willing to provide for? Would you show me that my generosity is a kingdom asset and not a possession to tightly hold on to? May I grow in generosity so that my heart would grow into a heart of love for the good of others and glory of God. Amen.
SEEKING GODS LOVE
God, shield me from my own heart. So often in life I can hear the faint whispers of the enemy calling me towards pride, envy, and comparison. And if I’m honest, I listen to them a lot more than I would like to admit. So God I come to you again asking, would your loving arms cover me once again? When the throws of life seem to rock me to and fro, would you pull me back into your warm embrace? For it is in your hands and yours alone that peace can be known and experienced for all that it truly is. It’s through your Spirit that I pray, amen.
God, shield me from my own heart. So often in life I can hear the faint whispers of the enemy calling me towards pride, envy, and comparison. And if I’m honest, I listen to them a lot more than I would like to admit. So God I come to you again asking, would your loving arms cover me once again? When the throws of life seem to rock me to and fro, would you pull me back into your warm embrace? For it is in your hands and yours alone that peace can be known and experienced for all that it truly is. It’s through your Spirit that I pray, amen.
MAJESTY OF GOD
How majestic is your name Lord? The earth trembles at your voice, kings shutter in your presence, rulers bow down before you, yet you came down to be with me? The one who judges harshly, sins often, forgets you quickly, you’ve decided to settle your Spirit within my body and call it good despite knowing everything about me, how can this be? Because you’re a God of grace. A God who gets in the dirt, muddies himself, and puts on robes of rubble in exchange for his robes of glory. That is the God we worship, behold before our eyes, and worship with all of our being, amen.
How majestic is your name Lord? The earth trembles at your voice, kings shutter in your presence, rulers bow down before you, yet you came down to be with me? The one who judges harshly, sins often, forgets you quickly, you’ve decided to settle your Spirit within my body and call it good despite knowing everything about me, how can this be? Because you’re a God of grace. A God who gets in the dirt, muddies himself, and puts on robes of rubble in exchange for his robes of glory. That is the God we worship, behold before our eyes, and worship with all of our being, amen.
SEEKING THE FACE OF GOD
My heart is distraught. In the middle of a season where it feels like I’m exactly where God has called me to be, life is full, I’ve suddenly found myself in the middle of deep pain. An experience in this world has caused my soul to ache for a world of nothing but wholeness and beauty because what lay before me is sin and ruin. Would you show me your face again God? I know in my mind you’re with me breathing air into my lungs, and wind beneath my feet, but would your Spirit give comfort to my soul bringing to mind the splendor of God’s beautiful character? Help me to live in the tension of two realities, God. My bones and my soul ache for restoration of this broken world and that God has made this world with a caring hand full of His goodness. May my soul learn to be content in every season of life through humble obedience to you God, amen.
My heart is distraught. In the middle of a season where it feels like I’m exactly where God has called me to be, life is full, I’ve suddenly found myself in the middle of deep pain. An experience in this world has caused my soul to ache for a world of nothing but wholeness and beauty because what lay before me is sin and ruin. Would you show me your face again God? I know in my mind you’re with me breathing air into my lungs, and wind beneath my feet, but would your Spirit give comfort to my soul bringing to mind the splendor of God’s beautiful character? Help me to live in the tension of two realities, God. My bones and my soul ache for restoration of this broken world and that God has made this world with a caring hand full of His goodness. May my soul learn to be content in every season of life through humble obedience to you God, amen.
As you read these words, may they seep into your very being and be a catalyst for the work the Spirit of God is longing to do in your life. But above all else, may this bring you a deep sense of joy, peace, and rest. In a culture of hustle and nonstop work, may this serve as a way for you to slow down your mind and soul. In times of hardship, may this remind you of the good that God brought to you in this season. May this be a landmark moment of your life where you can look back with a genuine smile and see the effects this church has had on the entirety of your life. May Psalm 115 be the cry of our hearts for years to come. Blessings friends.