PRAY: Prayer for Those Who Are Facing Decisions They Never Anticipated
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Photograph © Andrew Pieper, 2012
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2012 was a banner year for our family, but I think the banner would probably read something like, “Trust Me through the Tough Times.” Yes, God is good, but we faced some big challenges. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier to close the door on an old year.
So far, 2013 seems much the same. Amid the joys of a daughter’s upcoming high school graduations and plans for summer mission trips come the sorrows of broken relationships, friends’ serious illnesses, and more. Circumstances, whether we see them as positive or negative, necessitate decisions. A friend facing his wife’s recovery from cancer surgery thousands of miles from home had to make multiple decisions about returning to work. Several friends are looking at job-related choices and changes. And many more face the difficult decisions involved with our status as part of the sandwich generation, with teenage or young adult children and aging parents.
I offer this prayer for myself and for others who face decisions they never anticipated:
Lord, in the midst of all these unexpected decisions, I look to you. I never imagined I’d find myself in this place. I never thought of myself as unprepared, but here I am. And I had no idea life would look the way it does right now.
Perfect Father, I ask you to cover me and to cover for me as well. I’m flying blind. Since I know you promise to give wisdom to those who lack it, I’m asking. You say that if we acknowledge you in all our ways, you’ll direct our paths. Help me first to acknowledge you in every little and large thing I do, to remember you when I’m tempted to wander away. And God, I’ve never needed direction more than I do now. One step at a time? Maybe, but I can’t lift my foot to take that step without you. Find me, remind me, secure me, reassure me, and help me always to walk with you.
And Almighty God, would you also protect me from the evil one? I know he wants to steal, kill, and destroy everything good in my life. I’m so thankful I know you and can keep walking your way. Even when I stumble, Lord Jesus, compel me to run always to you. Shelter me and keep me, ever weak but always strong in the mighty name of Jesus in which I pray this day—AMEN.
If you’d like prayer for a specific need, feel free to email me or comment below. I’d love to hear from you. And if God has pulled you through a time of unexpected decisions, feel free to share that, too. Your words will give glory to Him and encourage others.
