A Prayer for a New Year

Instead of making resolutions which I can never keep, I am asking God to do some things in my life this year:

·         When I am selfish, give me your love and grace for others.

·         When I am prone to anger, remind me how much I need your mercy.

·         When I am tired, give me your strength to complete the things that really matter and the wisdom to let got go of everything else.

·         When I feel strong, show me that it is a mirage.

·         When I am discouraged, remind me that you have great purpose for my life.

·         When I am self-centered, draw me to worship Christ who gave himself as a sacrifice for us.

·         When I am unloving, infuse me with your love.

·         When I face obstacles, give me your wisdom.

·         When I waste time, remind me of the brevity of life.

·         When I feel alone, give me a sense of your presence.

·         When I am surrounded by people and projects, show me how to create time for you in solitude and silence.

·         When I become too busy to spend time in prayer and the Word, make me restless so that I come to you for peace.

·         When I am tempted, give me strength to resist.

·         When I sin, lead me to repentance by your love and mercy.

·         When I am afraid, help me trust that you are my refuge.

·         When I need provision, remind me that it comes from you, not my own resources.

·         When I am tempted to buy more stuff, remind me how rich I am and open my eyes and wallet to those who are truly needy.

·         When others hurt, give me tears for them.

·         When others rejoice over something I would like to experience, help me overcome envy and truly rejoice with them.

·         When I begin to worry, give me faith to trust you.

·         When my circumstances are difficult, give me joy in you and the belief that you are at work.

·         When relationships are hard, give me unconditional love.

·         When faced with conflict, give me wisdom to be a peacemaker and the heart to forgive.

·         When I am lost, guide me to your path.

·         Grow my faith, love, and hope this year. Move me closer to loving you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to loving others as myself.