I praise You, My Lord, for You are the very life that courses through my veins and the love that resides in my heart. Because of You, I begin each day with thanksgiving on my lips and at night I fall asleep in the safety of Your arms. It is difficult to, day in and day out, take up my cross and follow You. However, I trust that, in those times, You will give me both the will and power to do it joyfully. I know that when I call out to you … my cries are heard and You rush to my aid. I am confident that as I keep my eyes fixed on You, You will guide me through my troubles to a place of peace and rest. Help me not lose my focus during the trying times in my life. Watch over me so that I do not fall into an abyss. Shelter me from my own carelessness and inattentiveness to what’s going on around me. As I walk along life’s path, I sometimes find myself feeling uneasy … but, as I reflect on You, I am reassured and confidence returns.
I look to You, My King, as a servant looks to his Master for his well-being. For You are the source of all that is good in my life. I have endured much, but it seems less burdensome because You have been there to share it with me. When my enemies have attacked me, You swallowed them up in Your righteous anger. When the floods of life engulf me and sorrows raging waters come to sweep me away, You throw me a lifeline to prevent me from drowning in sadness and resignation. I cherish You because You have helped me escape the snares of sin and death. I know that as I learn to trust You more, my faith will become unshakeable. For You have surrounded me with a high wall of protection so that I can live in safety. The wicked will be with me always, but so will be Your grace. I am confident that as I go about trying to do what is right, You will pour out Your blessings upon me. As I walk uprightly, You will defend me from those who want to do me harm.
I am thankful that You have set me free from my past and that Your eyes watch over me each day. As a result, I am filled with hope and joy. As My Provider, You have done many good things on my behalf. You have restored my good fortunes, my relationships and my health. You have wiped away my tears, held me close and lovingly reassured me. If You do not build me up, I know that my life will collapse. As I go forth each day, I am confident You will fill it with good things. Because of Your unconditional love, You have made provision for all of my daily needs. Help me be content with who I am and what I have. Help me become willing to stretch myself and become vulnerable in order to follow You in doing the work You have planned for me. As a result of all of the good things You have done for me, I have given the high place in my life to You. And it’s in Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN!!
Psalm 144:2 He is my loving god and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues people under me.