In our fast paced world, trying to understand all that goes on around us seems impossible at times. Wars, threats, needless deaths, pain and suffering, people killing other people, terrorist attacks and threats, children starving…the list goes on and on. News is ever changing and always seems to be negative.
Anne Murray sang a song years ago titled, “A Little Good News” that still speaks to me today (I know, I am telling my age now) but don’t we all long for a little good news in our lives? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to turn on the TV and hear the news anchor talk about positive things happening in the world?
The news may not be positive but our outlook on life can be. The Apostle Paul made it very clear in Philippians 4:8 that we are to think about the pure, the clean, and the positive. It may not seem normal to pray as opposed to worry, give thanks in all things, and see the good instead of the bad but I can assure you, the alternative won’t get you anywhere.
The Lord’s Prayer was given to us as an example of the heartfelt things we should be praying for as we humble ourselves and prioritize our lives. Below you will find it written in a series of easy to understand segments for you to meditate on in your quite time.
Scripture: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed by your name…
Prayer: Father in heaven, Your name is wonderful and holy. I acknowledge that You hold all power—that You are God and that on my own I am powerless. Without You, I will most certainly relapse into the old hurts, hang-ups, and habits of my past.
Scripture: “Your kingdom come…”
Prayer: I pray that Your kingdom will come in my life—that I will yield myself to be used by You, that You can use me to reach out to others with the Good News of Your kingdom and Your healing. Help me to find ways to serve You and others.
Scripture: “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…”
Prayer: Oh, Lord, I pray that Your will be done in my life. I fight against it so often, but in my heart of hearts, I choose to submit to You. Help me to hold on to that choice. I choose Your will over my willpower; help me not to fall back into old patterns.
Scripture: “Forgive us our debts…”
Prayer: Forgive me, Lord. I have looked at my life and my heart, and what I’ve seen is not pretty. You already knew that, and I thank You for loving me anyway and for forgiving me so freely. Thank You for the loving support from others that You have provided along life’s journey.
Scripture: “As we also have forgiven our debtors…”
Prayer: Soften my heart toward those who have harmed me. Teach me, by Your power, to forgive, as You have forgiven me. And give me the courage, the conviction, and the wisdom to make amends where I have harmed others. Help me not to harbor feelings of resentment and bitterness.
Scripture: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one…” Prayer: Help me to daily spend time with You. I know that time with You is my best defense against the evil’s of the world and my best offense toward growth. May my time with Your create a hedge of protection around me. Amen.
Reshape Moment:
Many may start strong only to finish wrong with regrets and wishes of yesterday past. The negativism and constant ways of our surroundings can bring even the best of us down if we don’t guard our hearts and minds on a daily basis. Finding a quiet time each day to pray and give thanks for all you have can build a shield of protection around us, build our faith, and give us the hope we need to finish strong.
About the author
Dr. Dallas Humble is a healthcare provider, business owner, professional consultant, author and founder of The Reshape Institute. Dr. Humble consults with individuals and organizations across the country to improve productivity, identify & mitigate injuries and promote wellness. For more information visit www.dallashumble.com.
