March 21, 2023 | by Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner | NCNW National Chaplain and President of Skinner Leadership Institute| barbarawilliams-skinner.com
O Lord our God, Maker of the universe and Author of life, we give you thanks for another day’s journey. We praise you, Lord God, for having the whole world in the palm of your mighty hands yet being mindful of each of our thoughts, needs, and cares. You are not a God, who is far away, but one who is near and longs for closeness with us. Thank you, Lord, for expressing your deep love and desire for nearness to us through the sacrifice of your only Son to free us from sin's bondage so that we might be fully connected to you.
Your word reminds us to “draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8 But, how, O Lord, can we come closer to you when there is so much about the world that distracts, entices, tempts, and robs us of intimate time in your holy presence, which alone restores, revives, and renews us? Daily, we are overwhelmed, exhausted, and wearied by the ravages of human-to-human conflict and mean-spiritedness toward the vulnerable that saps the joy of living, and the strength to act. Help us, God, to “steal away” and draw near to you, for in your presence, we are reminded that you alone have the power to calm thunderous storms, settle roaring seas, and stop deadly earthquakes. In your presence, we release every personal and communal challenge we face for you, our Burden-bearer, our Rock, our Fortress, and our Deliverer. Help us today, O Lord, to renew our commitment to give you the first fruits of our time, thoughts, and attention, so that you might equip us through the power of prayer with strength for our journey, wisdom for every decision, and peace through life’s storms. In your mighty, and matchless name, we pray, Lord God, AMEN.
