Strength for the Weary
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith. (Galatians 6:10)
God desires to work in us and through us to encourage, strengthen and bless others- especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. The focus of today’s ABIDE is on God’s strength that is in us and works through us.
Let’s begin ABIDE by taking a moment to quiet our hearts and minds – to be still before God.
You may want to pray a “breath prayer” as you inhale and exhale, such as, “God, you are my strength.”
Opening Prayer
Prayer: Father, we love you and we need you. Holy Spirit, fill us and lead us as we gather to pray and study Scripture. We dedicate this time to you and what you have for us to receive from you as your sons and daughters. Remove any distractions and help us to focus our hearts on you. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Praise
But as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Galatians 6:14a)
Let’s take a moment to thank Jesus for what He did on the cross for us and how our lives are forever changed because of the cross. What are you grateful for when you think about the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ?
Prayer: Jesus, we love you and praise you. We are grateful for you and boast in _______________________(fill in the blank with what you love about Jesus).
Prayer for Our Heart
Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. (Galatians 6:9)
As we walk through pain, losses, trials and spiritual warfare it opens the door to weariness. We get tired physically, emotionally and spiritually. Yet Scripture tells us to “not to get tired of doing good.” How can we keep from becoming tired of doing good? We put our hope in the Lord and receive His strength.
But those who trust in the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Let’s ask our Father to renew our strength as we put our hope in Him.
Prayer: Father, we/I pray for renewed strength __________________________(fill in the blank with whatever area of your life, family, ministry that you need renewed strength). I put my hope in you and fix my/our eyes on you and your Kingdom. In Jesus Name.
Prayer for Other’s Hearts
Brothers and sisters, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Galatians 6:18)
As God’s sons and daughters, we are called to pray for one another. We have the honor of praying for our brothers and sisters to receive God’s grace and His strength.
As the Spirit brings people to mind, let’s pray for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to be made known in a powerful way in their lives.
Prayer: Father, we/I pray for____________________________and ask that your grace be made know to her/him today and received deeply in his/her heart. In Jesus Name.
Closing Prayer
Father, thank you for your strength. Thank you for pouring your love and grace out on the cross through your son, Jesus Christ. We love you, worship you and give you all praise and honor for the strength that you give us. In Jesus Name, Amen.
