Joyful Moments in Christ

This prayer is inspired by the promise of Philippians 1:6, which reminds us that God completes what he begins. Many of us wrestle with discouragement when the sanctification progress feels slow or old habits return, however the Bible assures us that the Lord continues his work even in seasons when we cannot see it. This prayer offers space to worship God, confess our sin and weakness, give thanks for his steady hand, and ask for strength to endure. Its goal is to help you seek joy and contentment in the Christian life by remembering that your growth is ultimately held in the faithful hands of Jesus Christ.

A Prayer

Dear Father,

You are the giver of all things good, the Creator who never abandons the work of your hands. You guide your people with a wisdom that does not falter, and you hold every moment of our lives with steady care. Nothing in this world is beyond your reach, and nothing is too broken for your healing touch. You are kind and patient, and you lead your children toward what is truly life.

I confess that I often resist the very things that would bring health to my soul. I choose comfort over courage, distraction over devotion, and temporary relief over lasting hope. I confess that I sometimes trust my feelings more than your promises. Forgive me for the moments when I forget that you are at work, even when I cannot see progress.

Thank you for the good work you have begun in me. Thank you that your plans are bigger than my fears and far more faithful than my wavering desires. I praise you that your work is not limited by my weakness. Your word reminds me of the steady truth of Philippians 1:6 (ESV): “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Thank you for this promise that does not shift with my emotions. Thank you for the joy that grows when I remember that you finish what you start.

Please shape my heart so that it reflects your holiness and your compassion. Remove desires that lead me toward harm, and create in me a love for what is good and pure. Help me endure the slow days of waiting when I am tempted to believe that nothing is changing. Give me strength to trust your timing and not my own. When I stumble, lift me up. When I grow weary, steady me. And when I fear that I will never change, remind me again that your work will be completed in your perfect way.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Respond

Please pray a prayer about trusting in God’s ongoing work in your life and the lives of others.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, you can use the ACTS method: Adoration, Confession, Thankfulness, and Supplication:

• Adoration: Praise God. Does this topic bring any specific characteristics of God to mind?
• Confession: Tell God that you are sorry for specific sins. Does this topic bring any specific sins to mind?
• Thankfulness: Show gratitude towards God. Does anything from this topic inspire gratitude?
• Supplication: Make requests for yourself and for others. Does anything from this topic inspire a prayer?

If helpful, you can use a prayer journal template.

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English Standard Version (ESV): Unless otherwise noted, scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.