Prayers on Fire E-Book

Brian Simmons

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: The Passion Translation Devotionals
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2017

Seitenzahl: 377

Beschreibung

For almost three thousand years, people have prayed and sung the Psalms. Like those who have gone before us, when we are filled with joy, we will discover fuel in these ancient songs for even higher praises. And when we are going through the valley of deepest darkness, we will find in the Psalms light shining upon us, driving the shadows of doubt away. Prayers on Fire includes 365 prayers inspired by the book of Psalms from the heart-felt Passion Translation. Each day contains an excerpt from the Psalms and then a prayer from the heart, providing an expression of faith and worship for sincere worshipers. Open your heart as you open the pages of this book. Here you will find God as your shelter of strength. "As I'm hidden within your greatness, I discover your eternal purposes. In love and humility I bow before you, my awe-inspiring God. The way you watch over me, infuses me with confidence and courage. You are my source; I draw life from the waters of your love. Walking step by step with you brings me joy unlike I've ever known. Your Word illuminates my path, and wherever I go, I flourish. No matter the season, I'm blessed—established firmly in you." (Inspired by Psalm 1:2)

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC

Racine, Wisconsin, USA

BroadStreetPublishing.com

Prayers on Fire: 365 Days Praying the Psalms

Copyright © 2017 The Passion Translation®

Written by Brian Simmons and Gretchen Rodriguez

ISBN-13: 978-1-4245-5389-1 (faux leather)

ISBN-13: 978-1-4245-5390-7 (e-book)

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without permission in writing from the publisher.

All Scripture is from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2014, 2015, 2016 by BroadStreet Publishing Group, Racine, Wisconsin. thePassionTranslation.com. Used by permission.

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Cover design by Chris Garborg at garborgdesign.com

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Printed in China or the United States of America

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Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Imminent

January 2: My Greatest Treasure

January 3: Yahweh

January 4: The Place of Wonder

January 5: I am Yours

January 6: Just Breathe

January 7: To Laugh Again

January 8: You Have Restored My Roar

January 9: When I’m Overwhelmed

January 10: Suffering in Silence

January 11: Deeply Rooted

January 12: My Source

January 13: Stronger than Before

January 14: Revive Me

January 15: Magnificent

January 16: Love

January 17: Faith

January 18: Holy Devotion

January 19: Quiet Confidence

January 20: Light of the World

January 21: Near

January 22: Examine My Heart

January 23: Running after You

January 24: Find Me

January 25: Mystery

January 26: In Sorrow

January 27: Fierce Protector

January 28: The Awe of Knowing You

January 29: Misplaced Affection

January 30: Hidden Treasure

January 31: Reflect

February

February 1: Not Abandoned

February 2: See Again

February 3: Liquid Love

February 4: The Path to Your Presence

February 5: Vision

February 6: Happy

February 7: Unaware

February 8: Rescuer

February 9: Climb

February 10: Listening

February 11: Eternal Wisdom

February 12: Surrendered

February 13: Lovely

February 14: Beautiful

February 15: Favor

February 16: Redeem the Past

February 17: Sweet Sleep

February 18: Ascend

February 19: The Ways of Honor

February 20: You’re the Answer

February 21: A Life of Grace

February 22: Legacy

February 23: Steadfast

February 24: God of Justice

February 25: To Be One

February 26: Sleeping Hearts

February 27: Where Are You?

February 28: Restore My Soul

February 29: Awaken the Earth

March

March 1: Irresistible

March 2: The Journey

March 3: The Wonder of Your Love

March 4: Anointed to Reign

March 5: Hold Me

March 6: Restoration

March 7: Merciful King

March 8: Quicksand

March 9: You Still Love Me

March 10: Extravagant Mercy

March 11: Holy Pursuit

March 12: Bless the Children

March 13: My Only Hope

March 14: Provider

March 15: Forgive

March 16: Flood

March 17: Let Go

March 18: My Fortress

March 19: How Can It Be?

March 20: God’s Unashamed Love

March 21: Astounding

March 22: Redeeming Love

March 23: Life’s Greatest Quest

March 24: A Worshiping Creation

March 25: Reveal

March 26: Vibrant

March 27: Close to Me

March 28: Because You Love Me

March 29: Longings

March 30: Holy Place

March 31: Weary

April

April 1: What Love Can Do

April 2: Today

April 3: Divine Helper

April 4: Escaping the Wilderness

April 5: The Beauty of Wisdom

April 6: Government

April 7: Living under an Open Heaven

April 8: Right Here

April 9: Fresh Start

April 10: Fruitful

April 11: Forgiven

April 12: A Pleasing Offering

April 13: The Spirit of the Lord

April 14: The Spirit of Wisdom

April 15: The Spirit of Understanding

April 16: The Spirit of Counsel

April 17: The Spirit of Power

April 18: The Spirit of Knowledge

April 19: The Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

April 20: Arise and Shine

April 21: When You’re Silent

April 22: Being Me

April 23: Yearn

April 24: Await

April 25: Empower Me

April 26: Measureless Grace

April 27: The Invitation

April 28: Sacred Oil

April 29: Light

April 30: Remember

May

May 1: Shout

May 2: Unrelenting Mercy

May 3: Our Safe Place

May 4: Don’t Pass Me By

May 5: The Perfect Plan

May 6: Unending Love

May 7: Unshakable

May 8: The Testing

May 9: Wondrous Love

May 10: Lean In

May 11: Incarnate

May 12: Unwavering

May 13: Nothing Compares

May 14: Israel, the Apple of Your Eye

May 15: Fill Me

May 16: Set Apart

May 17: No Holding Back

May 18: Light in the Darkness

May 19: Entirely Yours

May 20: Genius

May 21: Your Masterpiece

May 22: The Beautiful Path

May 23: When Friends Turn against Me

May 24: All I Need

May 25: Deluge

May 26: My Righteous King

May 27: Our Great God

May 28: Refresh Us

May 29: Constant One

May 30: Stillness

May 31: Until I Found You

June

June 1: Seeds of Light

June 2: Sovereign

June 3: Where I Belong

June 4: Author and Finisher of My Faith

June 5: Convey

June 6: Theme

June 7: A New Season

June 8: Worthy

June 9: Crying Out

June 10: Quiet

June 11: Reach

June 12: Desire

June 13: That All May Know

June 14: The Voyage

June 15: The Lie

June 16: Broken

June 17: Free from Fear

June 18: Lessons from Creation

June 19: Save Me

June 20: The Safety of Your Presence

June 21: I Look to You

June 22: So Be It

June 23: Release

June 24: Throughout the Earth

June 25: Your Word

June 26: Depths

June 27: To Reveal You

June 28: The Many Ways You Love Me

June 29: Unstoppable Praise

June 30: Transformed

July

July 1: Alive

July 2: A Life of Honor

July 3: Glorious God

July 4: Hiding Place

July 5: Ever Faithful

July 6: Generous Living

July 7: Everything I Need

July 8: More Than Enough

July 9: Agape

July 10: A Child of God

July 11: All-Consuming

July 12: We Need You

July 13: Steady

July 14: To Be like You

July 15: My Deliverer

July 16: My Friend

July 17: No Matter What

July 18: My Ultimate Quest

July 19: Closer

July 20: Meet with Me

July 21: At Rest

July 22: When My Heart Is Filled with Praise

July 23: Embrace Me

July 24: Listen

July 25: Tomorrow

July 26: Victorious

July 27: What Do You See?

July 28: Forever Grateful

July 29: My Resting Place

July 30: It Is Finished

July 31: You Are My Heart’s Desire

August

August 1: Break Open the Way

August 2: Hope

August 3: Chosen

August 4: Unity

August 5: Wonderful

August 6: Captivated

August 7: Outrageous Love

August 8: Fearless

August 9: Desert Garden

August 10: Lead Me

August 11: Higher

August 12: Good Morning, Lord!

August 13: You Haven’t Forgotten Me

August 14: Praise!

August 15: Rise

August 16: Awakened

August 17: Called to Shine

August 18: Faithful

August 19: Through It All

August 20: Your Glorious Dwelling

August 21: My Bridegroom-King

August 22: Living Waters

August 23: You Alone

August 24: My Beautiful Inheritance

August 25: Deeper

August 26: Safe

August 27: Content

August 28: My Healer

August 29: Continually

August 30: Inexhaustible

August 31: Promise

September

September 1: First Love

September 2: Simply Because I Love You

September 3: Strengthen Me

September 4: In Love

September 5: Victory

September 6: Father

September 7: Lift Me

September 8: Begin Again

September 9: From Beginning to End

September 10: Aware

September 11: I Shall Not Want

September 12: God of Peace

September 13: You Are Good

September 14: A Cry for the Lost

September 15: Worthy of My Praise

September 16: Come

September 17: The Fragrant Offering of My Life

September 18: Not Forsaken

September 19: Children of the Kingdom

September 20: Invincible

September 21: Jerusalem

September 22: Protected

September 23: Reveal Your Justice

September 24: Discover

September 25: Knowing You

September 26: I Am Loved

September 27: Indescribable

September 28: The Posture of Love

September 29: Firmly Planted

September 30: Perfected Beauty

October

October 1: Still My Trembling Heart

October 2: Continual Delight

October 3: Extravagant Love

October 4: Vessel of Honor

October 5: Delight

October 6: Confidence

October 7: God of Miracles

October 8: You Are the One

October 9: Loving Myself

October 10: Expectancy

October 11: Strong in Battle

October 12: Flourish

October 13: Endless Possibilities

October 14: Your Voice

October 15: Rays

October 16: Discover

October 17: Open Arms

October 18: Always Present

October 19: Life Worth Imitating

October 20: Your Great Love

October 21: No Holding Back

October 22: Believe

October 23: Forever

October 24: The Outpouring of Revelation

October 25: The Joy of Discovery

October 26: King of My Heart

October 27: The Beauty of the Cross

October 28: Abundant Love

October 29: Because of You

October 30: I Choose

October 31: Holy Vessels

November

November 1: Promises Delayed

November 2: The Righteous Ones

November 3: In Times of Criticism

November 4: The Children

November 5: Touch

November 6: I Know the Way

November 7: Empowered by Love

November 8: The Treasure of Your Love

November 9: Purify Me

November 10: Experiencing His Word

November 11: The Beautiful God of Grace

November 12: The Bliss of His Presence

November 13: The Beauty of Silence

November 14: Peace

November 15: My Messiah

November 16: Love’s Revelation

November 17: I Need You

November 18: I Trust You

November 19: Bubbling Over

November 20: You Know Me

November 21: Your Love

November 22: I Will Fly

November 23: Speechless

November 24: Atoning Love

November 25: Content

November 26: The Joy of Worship

November 27: Sustained by Your Love

November 28: Never Alone

November 29: Futility

November 30: The Record of Your Love

December

December 1: I Love You

December 2: The Hope of the Humble

December 3: Wholly Yours

December 4: Redeemer

December 5: You Bore My Shame

December 6: My Greatest Joy

December 7: My Strength

December 8: God of Mercy

December 9: All at Once

December 10: Creator

December 11: The Joy of Life

December 12: Never Let Me Down

December 13: My Portion

December 14: Abiding

December 15: Experience the Wonder

December 16: Uniquely You

December 17: Treasures of Truth

December 18: While I Wait

December 19: Enduring Faith

December 20: Your Love Carries Me

December 21: No Other Answer than You

December 22: Truly Alive

December 23: Thank You

December 24: Rest

December 25: Messiah

December 26: Your Word Is Alive

December 27: Identity

December 28: Learning to Love

December 29: Creativity

December 30: Bless My Business

December 31: Like You

About the Authors

Introduction

For almost three thousand years, people have prayed and sung the Psalms. Like those who have gone before us, when we are filled with joy, we will find fuel in these ancient songs for even higher praises. And when we are going through the valley of deepest darkness, we will find in the Psalms light shining upon us, driving the shadows of doubt away. So I encourage you to open your heart as you open the pages of this book. Here you will find God as your Shelter of Strength.

Everything about you was made for God. You were created to need His presence. The true longing of your heart is to know Him, for you were formed in his image (Genesis 1:26–27). Prayer is expressing this soul-thirst for God. We come alive when we come before our True Source. The human spirit is empowered by prayer. Absolutely nothing else compares to being with him!

Prayers on Fire will connect you to God’s heart. As you take a portion of your day to pray aloud these devotional prayers (and I do encourage you to pray them out loud), your heart will burn with your soul’s desire to connect with the Eternal. Like a deer panting for refreshment, we thirst for the living God—a thirst that can sometimes be overwhelming. We just can’t go on without a fresh infilling from the Fountain of Life, and it’s prayer and what the Life-Giver does through it that gives us that needed infilling.

Prayer is God’s way of drawing us into his heart. He knows that life-changing power is released when we spend time with Jesus in prayer. Adoration turns into transformation—if we will be patient. To love him is our supreme occupation. The more we love him, the more we spend time with him. And the more we spend time with him, the more our soul is transformed into his image (2 Corinthians 3:18; John 14:21). As we give him our heart in prayer, he gives us his heart in exchange, transforming us deep within. God will change you through prayer.

This book is filled with adventure! It will take you through the poetry and prayers of the Psalms over the course of one year. Make it your goal to read it through cover to cover. If you miss a day, the chapters are short enough for you to catch up. We are praying for you that as you go through Prayers on Fire, your life will soar with fresh courage and tender devotion to Christ. Are you ready for that adventure?

Brian SimmonsThe Passion Translation Project

January

JANUARY 1

Imminent

O God-Enthroned in heaven,

I worship and adore you!

Psalm 123:1

God, you are enthroned upon my heart. I’m consumed with desire—a longing to touch what is unseen, yet real. So incredibly real. You are the profound truth that guides me and purifies my motives. You absorb my failings and grant me unending mercy. You are love.

When you speak, my heart comes alive. When you whisper, my soul finds peace. You are the breath that pushes me forward. The grace I discover each day.

There’s a fire burning deep within, ignited by your touch. I want to know you. To honor you. To please you with a life of unrelenting devotion. I want to discover the secrets that you’ve hidden for me to find. I want to be pure in heart. I want to see you. This beating in my chest tells me it’s not too late. You are imminent. You are near.

JANUARY 2

My Greatest Treasure

I find more joy in following what you tell me to do

than in chasing after all the wealth of the world!

Psalm 119:14

There is so much power that comes from walking in your truth. Abiding in your Word is the path to wisdom and purity. It is the only way I know to steer through the labyrinth of life. It is the light that guides my steps and the voice that speaks louder than my fears. It comforts me and kisses me with freedom. It is the strongest weapon in my arsenal—the power of your Spirit upon my lips.

Never let me stray from your commandments. I will write them upon my heart and meditate upon them even as I sleep. Counsel me with your precepts and keep me close to you, so that I won’t sin against you. Wonderful God, I praise you above all else! Teach me the power of your decrees and reveal the mysteries of your prophecies. Your words are my greatest treasure and following them is life’s greatest delight.

JANUARY 3

Yahweh

Be in awe before his majesty.

Be in awe before such power and might!

Come worship wonderful Yahweh arrayed in all his splendor,

bowing in worship as he appears in all his holy beauty.

Psalm 29:2

God, you are arrayed in splendor. You rule with majesty and holiness, eternity at your side. You are stunning—radiant and glorious. Struck with awe, I can do nothing more than bow low and worship you.

I hear a symphony playing as nature sings your song; the clashing of symbols as the waters break against the shore. The power of your voice splinters the mighty forests and echoes through the sky. It shakes the deserts, yet speaks to me with tender care. Stars sparkle as they dance on the edge of your fingertips, while the oceans reveal the depths of your love.

You are the strength of storms, the roar of thunder, the flashes of lightning, and the rush of wind. Though your eyes blaze with fire and tempt me to cower and hide, I cannot look away. Consuming me again with holy passion, you draw me in.

I fall prostrate before you in awe and wonder. You strengthen me, and it is only by your grace that I may stand before someone so holy. You kiss me with peace and call me your child. You lift me up and call me your friend.

JANUARY 4

The Place of Wonder

Listen to me all you godly ones:

Love the Lord with passion!

The Lord protects and preserves

all those who are loyal to him.

Psalm 31:23

I open my eyes to find myself standing in the beautiful expanse of answered prayer. This is the place of freedom, where dreams come true. You illuminate the dark places with the radiant splendor of your face. You lavish your undying love upon me until I can barely speak.

Yes, this is the place of reverent wonder. Where I’m struck silent—amazed at your faithfulness; humbled by my lack of patience while I waited for you. Forgive me for thinking you deserted me.

Tears of love soak my face as I ponder how wonderful you are. You’ve come through once again. All you require is a sincere heart that loves you—a radiant lover who honors you and worships you, even in the hardest of times. To this one, you pour out blessings that astound us. You surprise us with treasure that you’ve been storing up all along.

Lord, I pray for those who are as weary as I was—strengthen them with courage, overshadow them with your glorious presence as they wait for you.

JANUARY 5

I am Yours

You took me in and made me yours.

Now teach me all about your ways and tell me what to do.

Make it clear for me to understand.

Psalm 27:10–11

You have made me yours. You answered my passionate cry for mercy and have become my strength. You cherish me. You love me. You will never let me fall. I am chosen.

All of my days I will sing of your goodness and undeserved favor. How wonderfully you care for me—like a father doting over a precious child. You teach me your ways and illuminate my journey with perfect wisdom.

Every longing in my heart ultimately leads to you. You are the fulfillment of every dream—the healing for every pain. You are life and love. You are perfect deliverance. You have removed hypocrisy from my heart and clothed me with righteousness. I choose the humble posture of love. I clothe myself in praise. I am yours.

JANUARY 6

Just Breathe

Surrender your anxiety!

Be silent and stop your striving

and you will see that I am God.

Psalm 46:10

Breathe. That’s all I can do. I’ve done everything else. I’ve prayed every prayer, I’ve sung every song, and I’ve cried every tear. I can’t fix these things that spin out of control. I’m exhausted. God, I don’t know what to do.

You are silent. I know that you’re close, but the only sound I hear is the chaos raging inside of me. Speak to me. Let the fire of your love burn away everything that is not of you.

Gently you come. I feel the faint touch of your Spirit—a wisp of light in the midst of darkness. Embrace me. Let me lean into your presence.

I hear you now—whispering truths that begin to chase away my fears. You tell me to be still, to release my cares to you, so you can step in. In truth, I wonder if I can—anxiety is eating me away. But in obedience, I surrender. Take it, Lord. Take it all. I choose to trust you.

I don’t know how long I stay in this holy place before the dawn of hope alights upon my heart, but eventually it does. I am still. My heart is at peace. You are God and you will not forget your promises to me. I love you.

JANUARY 7

To Laugh Again

Lord God, unlock my heart, unlock my lips,

and I will overcome with my joyous praise!

Psalm 51:15

Sometimes I feel stuck, the cares of life gluing me within a cocoon of melancholy that I cannot escape. There is only one solution and you are it. I want to soar with you and feel the intoxicating delight of freedom once again.

Fan away the gloomy clouds of heaviness and unclutter my mind. Catch the little foxes hidden deep within my heart and untangle my soul from anxiety. Come, take my hand and together we’ll dance away my cares.

I can’t help but smile when I feel you near. You cause the stars to shine and my heart to sing. When I’m with you, I’m alive—raptured by pleasures few have ever known. Your presence unlocks the treasures of joy within me. You breathe wonder and delight into my soul, so I can laugh again!

JANUARY 8

You Have Restored My Roar

Through your glorious name and your awesome power

we can push through to any victory and defeat every enemy.

Psalm 44:5

God, you are faithful. Nothing can stand in my way! You are my Champion who has overcome. When you filled me with your power, you equipped me to be just like you. When you put your words in my heart, you gave me a sword to wield. My posture will not be one of defeat or fear, for you have given me the victory!

Just standing in your presence infuses me with faith. I will run through the fires and dance in the storms. Your radiant presence burns through the camp of the enemy, destroying the wickedness that opposes you.

When hopelessness tries to steal my joy, I will not relent. I will stare fear in the face, for you have restored my roar. Your strength has saved me.

JANUARY 9

When I’m Overwhelmed

I’m slipping away and on the verge of a breakdown,

with nothing but sorrow and sighing.

Psalm 38:17

I’m bowed before your throne. In need of your mercy once again. I come just as I am—an imperfect vessel filled with a perfect God. I won’t cower in fear from your righteous gaze. I know you see everything. My heart and mind are at odds and I need you.

I can’t survive this world without you. The demands of life are too much for me. It seems everything is fighting for my attention. I’m on the verge of a breakdown and it’s my own fault. I’ve let people pull me in every direction, schedules dictate my peace, and the chaos looming in the distance fills me with fear. I’m not sure how I ever lost sight of you. Forgive me!

I can’t hold it in any longer. Without you, I’m a mess. I need to experience you again. To bask in the reality of your love. I choose to stay here and hide myself in you, until these distractions disappear. I want to worship you until nothing else matters. Come with your mercy, free me with your love.

JANUARY 10

Suffering in Silence

Please deal gently with me;

show me mercy for I’m sick and frail.

I’m fading away with weakness.

Heal me, for I’m falling apart.

Psalm 6:2

Lord, show me how to love those who are hurting and suffering in silence. Teach me to be patient with those who pull away and retreat. Show me how I can help them.

So many times you have come to my rescue. You have lifted me out of the pit of despair and caused me to laugh again. Now I’m asking for you to do the same for those around me who feel as if they are falling apart. Reach out in ways only you know how and ignite their hearts with hope. Heal the wounds and disappointments that cause them pain. Restore them and redeem their past. Shine the light of your glory into their darkest hour.

When I’m with them, fill me with wisdom and compassion, and teach me how to love. Give me ideas and creative ways to be a blessing to them. Show me how to make them feel valued and understood. Help me to empower them, so they find the courage to let go of the pain. Let my joy be contagious. Set them free!

JANUARY 11

Deeply Rooted

They will be standing firm like a flourishing tree

planted by God’s design,

deeply rooted by the brooks of bliss;

bearing fruit in every season of their lives.

They are never dry, never fainting,

ever blessed, ever prosperous.

Psalm 1:3

Lord, I immerse myself in the depths of your light. Reveal what is true and right. I allow myself to sink beyond the mire of worldly consummations, to find truth by walking with you. Each thought turns into musings of your unfailing love.

Moment by moment I discover the joys of walking on the path you have set before me. You are my sure footing, the One who sustains me. Let me ever remain true—rooted deeply in your love, saturated with the waters of your pleasure, constantly aware of your nearness.

Life with you satisfies the deepest yearnings of my soul. In you I flourish, bearing fruit in every season. In this place of unrelenting devotion, I will never be dry; could never be disappointed, because you are here with me.

Every fiber of my being overflows with joy and wonder. You faithfully watch over the paths of those who love you, leading them on a sacred journey with you.

JANUARY 12

My Source

Many blessings are waiting for all

who turn aside to hide themselves in him!

Psalm 2:12

From the depths of my heart, I worship, knowing I am covered and protected by your presence. You’ve brought me close—right into the brilliance of your glory. Your arms are a shield that cannot be penetrated by the sharpest of arrows. Your embrace is like a lullaby and I sleep soundly, knowing I’ll awake in the place of safety and bliss.

In you, I am truly alive. As I hide myself within your greatness, I discover your eternal purposes. You are my awe-inspiring God—in love and humility I bow. The way you watch over me infuses me with confidence and courage. I find I can stand on my own two feet again because you are with me.

You are my Source; I draw life from the waters of your love. Walking step-by-step with you brings me joy unlike that I’ve ever known. Your Word illuminates my path and wherever we go, I flourish. No matter the season, I’m blessed—established firmly in you.

JANUARY 13

Stronger than Before

Yes, they surrounded me,

like a swarm of killer bees swirling around me.

I was trapped like one trapped by a raging fire;

I was surrounded with no way out and at the point of collapse.

But by Yahweh’s supernatural power I overcame them all!

Psalm 118:11–12

When my enemy surrounds me like a swarm of bees, you are there. When someone who was once a trusted confidant, betrays me, bad-mouths me, and pushes me to the edge, you pick me up and heal my wounds. Your compassion is unlike any other. You know what it’s like to suffer rejection. The difference is that you suffered it for me.

Together we have overcome. You have helped me through many difficult times and I’m so thankful. You are my true strength, my glory-song, my Champion, and my Savior! You never fail me. I will never again fear what mere mortals can do to me.

I’m stronger than before, because of your love. Not only has joy and gladness returned to my heart, but I see those who hurt me through new lenses. I see them with your heart. Lord, extend your tender mercy and teach them your ways. Draw them to you, the way you did with me. You alone have the power to lift heavy shadows from darkened hearts.

JANUARY 14

Revive Me

Lord, I’m fading away. I’m discouraged

and lying in the dust;

revive me by your Word,

just like you promised you would!

Psalm 119:25

Lord, I’m so discouraged. I feel as if I’m at the breaking point. I’ve poured my life into serving you, but lately nothing seems to be going right. It’s as if everything I do backfires. Help me not to make a mess of things. Hold me close so I don’t sin against you by throwing away my faith.

Revive me with the words that stream from your heart. Open up my understanding, so I will see things from your point of view. Keep me far away from what is false—leaning on my own understanding or putting confidence in the opinions of those who don’t care anything about you.

I need grace to stay true and continue running after you. For now, I will rest in your presence and let your Spirit strengthen me. Lord, the same way that the enemy had nothing in you that belonged to him, I want nothing in me that doesn’t reflect you. Take me deeper into your perfect love. I choose to trust you.

JANUARY 15

Magnificent

I bow down before your divine presence

and bring you my deepest worship

as I experience your tender love and your living truth.

For the promises of your Word and the fame of your name

have been magnified above all else!

Psalm 138:2

Lord, I come before you with a humble heart. How great you are! How magnificent! In the presence of angels, I bow down before your holy presence and adore you. There is none like you—none whose truth shakes the heavens.

Though you are more glorious than all the kings of the earth, you stoop to embrace the lowly and acquaint yourself with the suffering of humanity. Your wonderful ways are celebrated by all who discover them. Your promises are yes and amen. The fame of your name will one day bring the nations to their knees in reverence.

With deepest affection, I offer you my tears of thanksgiving and joy. You know me—every thought, every deed, every fear, and every hope—and yet you believe in me. I surrender everything to you. All I ask is that you would finish what you’ve started in me, so I will become what you already see.

JANUARY 16

Love

But as for me, your strength shall be my song of joy.

At each and every sunrise, my lyrics of your love will fill the air!

Psalm 59:16

I’ve become obsessed with this one truth—God, you love me. What a wonderful revelation! Each morning, when I wake and turn my heart to you, let that be my first thought. Let it fill my soul with hope and flood every cell with joy. Knowing you love me changes everything. The Creator of the universe, the One who made it all, loves me!

I want everything I do to flow from this posture of complete confidence in your love. I want to pursue this love forever—to worship you and you alone. Let love be the motivation for my life. Throughout the day, regardless of the challenges I face, let your love be my constant meditation. It is the provision for every situation.

I will trust in this love without reservation, believing in your promises. Such freedom in your love! Such peace to be found within it.

Nothing can ever separate me from this love. How amazing it is to be your child! May the power of your love set the course for my life.

JANUARY 17

Faith

Honor me by trusting in me in your day of trouble.

Cry aloud to me, and I will be there to rescue you.

That is what I desire from you!

Psalm 50:15

Lord, teach me to rest. I relinquish my cares, my worries, my anxieties to you. Free me from these limitations of unbelief. Release my soul from the entanglements of fear, so I will no longer be a victim of its torment.

I choose to believe you are the God of restoration. You will use these difficult times to springboard me into something beautiful and amazing. Though I sometimes feel disoriented in this maze of life, you restore my sense of direction. Nothing is too hard for you.

May the desires of my heart honor you. Let faith give me eyes that see. Unite my heart and mind, so my words create substance for me to walk upon. May the mountains of doubt move at my command. Lean in, Lord, hear my cry, and come to my rescue.

I will wait. I will trust. I will believe.

JANUARY 18

Holy Devotion

Lord, I will offer myself freely, and everything I am I give to you.

I will worship and praise your name, O Lord,

for it is precious to me.

Psalm 54:6

Lord, unite my will to yours. Spirit, soul, and body—I consecrate myself to you and depend upon your grace. Let me be so fully devoted to you that nothing will ever turn my heart away. Remove the barriers I have unknowingly created. Burn away everything that is contrary to your Holy Spirit.

I want every moment of my life to revolve around loving you. Whether in worship or in my daily tasks, guide me into a lifestyle of adoration. I want to be continually aware of you—the beginning and end of all I think and do. No matter what is happening around me, may I be eternally drawn to your presence.

In you I lack nothing. Your very name is power and majesty. Your presence is peace, joy, and full provision for every situation. I want to experience the fullness of your love. To worship you in spirit and truth—with unrelenting, unyielding devotion. May everything I do flow from a heart of pure and holy devotion. I give you the pleasing offering of my life.

JANUARY 19

Quiet Confidence

You are my Satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need;

so I’m determined to do everything you say.

Psalm 119:57

You are my satisfaction. From abstract chaos you build floors for me to dance upon. Your nearness floods my soul with peace that silences every fear. My thoughts are focused and clear when I choose to stay my mind on you. Everywhere I look, I see your love and tender care.

When temptation encircles me with evil, I remember you—my strength, my hope, the One who is more than enough. Your grace makes it easy to walk away. I want nothing to hinder me from this place of purity I’ve found in you. Reveal the glory of your ways, so I will never stray.

You are the peace found in every moment. The stillness of my soul. Even in the middle of the night, I wake and feel you near. Unveil my eyes to see you more clearly. Free me even more to live in this place of serenity, where every thought leads to you. Where joyful trust releases my soul.

JANUARY 20

Light of the World

How glad the nations will be when you are their King.

They will sing, they will shout, for you

give true justice to the people.

Yes! You, Lord, are the Shepherd of the nations!

Psalm 67:4

God, you are the light of the world. Shine your radiant smile on me, so that as I travel the globe, people will be drawn to the splendor of your glory. May your grace stream like a free-flowing fountain over my life, spilling to those around me. As I love and enjoy you, let my excitement become contagious, so others will discover you are in their midst.

Once they see that you rule with dignity and honor, they will burst forth with praise. The earth needs a true king. You Lord, are that King. How amazing it will be when you are invited into every nation, tribe, and culture. You will finally give us the justice we have needed. You will do more than rule us, you will shepherd us with a Father’s heart.

When everyone finally gives you the honor you deserve, the earth will be filled with glory. Our praise of you will never cease and you will bless our lands. Reveal your love, so even the hardest of hearts may come to know you.

JANUARY 21

Near

How satisfied we will be just to be near you!

Psalm 65:4

What an incomprehensible joy it is to know you and be known by you! I don’t have the words to adequately express your worth, so I stand in silence, my heart filled with praise. Simply being near you is exhilarating—satisfying the deepest longings of my soul. Though my sins should separate me from you, you have brought me near through your perfect sacrifice and call me your friend. How kind you are. How merciful.

I don’t think I will ever understand the favor you’ve shown me. Nor will I ever comprehend this unrestrained love that knows no end. You invite me into your sanctuary and give me a seat at your table; I feast on your mercy.

Your love is on display through mighty wonders and jaw-dropping power. The entire world looks to you. Thank you for caring for us like a Father, while ruling as a righteous God. You are the desire of the nations. Our hope is in you.

JANUARY 22

Examine My Heart

God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart.

Examine me through and through;

find out everything that may be hidden within me.

Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.

Psalm 139:23

Father, I fall prostrate before your holy presence. I surrender all that I am to you and give you full control of my life. There is nothing I want more than to become a vessel of pure devotion and to live each day consumed in this glorious love. Come, examine my heart and reveal anything that would distance me from you.

The nearness of your Spirit is like fire in my bones, sifting through every part of me. I will not resist. You know my weaknesses, yet you chose to dwell within my frailty. I stand humbled by your beauty, amazed by your power and grace.

As I meditate upon your Word, I feel it working within me, peeling away layers of darkness I didn’t know were there. With the precision of a surgeon’s knife, it cuts away the hidden cares.

Have your way in me, Lord. I trust you. Cleanse me from secret sins and purify my heart.

JANUARY 23

Running after You

I will run after you with delight in my heart.

Psalm 119:32

Your presence is alive! I’m running after you like a child chasing a father who longs to be caught. I’m free! Hold me. Dance with me. Let’s run through the open fields of your glory. Together, we’ll sing our songs of jubilee.

Your love fills me with joy. Just when I thought life couldn’t get any better, you prove me wrong. You love to surprise me. The depth of your Spirit calls to the depth of my soul, and I respond with full surrender. Nothing means more to me than being here with you.

God, you are the fountain of life. There’s always more to see and know when I walk with you. Open my eyes to partake of all that you want to show me. Pierce my heart with revelation truth. Take me from glory to glory. My soul delights in you.

JANUARY 24

Find Me

I’m sinking into the mud with no place to stand,

and I’m about to drown in this storm.

Psalm 69:2

Lord, I’m stuck. I’m sinking deeper and deeper into the mud, and I can’t get out. I don’t even know how to pray any more. It feels as if I’ve prayed every prayer I can pray and quoted every Scripture I know.

I’ve lost momentum. I’ve allowed the cares of this world and the busyness of life to drown me. Instead of running to you, I run in circles, trying to get everything else done. Schedules dictate my life. I need a break. I need you.

Give me a fresh start. Chase away the dark clouds that fill my head. Pull me out of this rut. Forgive me for letting my priorities get out of line, even for a moment. I’m at a loss for words and that’s okay. There are only three words that matter: I love you.

When I’m overwhelmed and cannot seem to find your presence, I will sit and worship. In the stillness, you will find me.

JANUARY 25

Mystery

Without a sound, without a word,

without a voice being heard,

Yet all the world can see its story.

Everywhere its gospel is clearly read so all may know.

Psalm 19:3–4

Lord, I hear you even when you don’t say a word. I feel you as you rise within me. Your presence is unmistakable. Your glory is a mystery I long to unravel.

You are grace and light, power and might. You are the first and the last. You are the question everyone asks and the answer too many refuse to accept. To me you are Savior, Father, and Friend. You are the beauty that lives inside of me and the One who gave me joy when you saved my soul. I will not wrestle with truth, simply because it is too high for me to understand.

You are immortal and eternal—you always were and always will be. YHWH—men cannot pronounce your name. I am crucified with you, yet seated with you in heavenly places. You are near and far—present with me, yet also with others. My mind cannot grasp such things, so I will embrace them with my heart.

JANUARY 26

In Sorrow

Even when their path winds through the dark valley of tears,

they dig deep to find a pleasant pool where others find only pain.

He gives to them a brook of blessing

filled from the rain of an outpouring.

Psalm 84:6

Lord, thank you for allowing me to go through the difficult seasons. There was a time in my life when I never thought I would say those words, but now I look back and see how glorious those dark times really were.

In the midst of my deepest pain, I learned how immediate and tangible your presence can be. You pour out such tender love and comfort when I need you the most. Had I not gone through those moments, seeking you in the midst of them, I would not have known the beauty of your consolation.

When my whole world is falling apart, you come as a loving Father and hold me in your arms. With whispers of hope, you always strengthen me. You remind me of your promises and your never failing truth. You reach into my deepest pain and heal it with your love.

Though I don’t enjoy the seasons of sorrow, I’m so grateful for the many things I’ve learned. I praise you for being present with me and manifesting your love so faithfully.

JANUARY 27

Fierce Protector

Your perfection and faithfulness are my bodyguards,

for you are my hope and I trust in you as my only protection.

Psalm 25:21

Come closer, Lord. Even closer. You are the only One who can save me from this slimy pit of despair. These trials are more than I can handle. It feels like things have gone from bad to worse. Though I’ve trusted you over and over again, every so often I need you to surround me like a bodyguard and rescue me.

You are my Fierce Protector. You have ransomed me with the price of blood, and I will not dishonor you by doubting your love. It is only when I surrender my fears and receive your promises that I remember how near you are. I fix my eyes on you.