We rejoice with you in giving thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is through Him alone that we receive grace, mercy, and every blessing! Your heart of gratitude is a beautiful offering to the Lord, and we join you in praising Him for His faithfulness over you and your family. The Scriptures remind us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to "in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you." Your desire to shift your focus from yourself to serving others is a godly ambition, for Jesus Himself said in Matthew 20:28, "The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." This is the heart of Christ—selflessness, love, and sacrifice—and we pray that He will continue to shape you in His image as you seek to live for Him.
We also lift up your request for forgiveness, for we know that "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). There is no fault or failure too great for the blood of Jesus to cover, and we thank Him for the mercy that washes us clean. Your acknowledgment of selfishness is a sign of the Holy Spirit working in you, convicting and guiding you toward holiness. Let us encourage you with the words of Philippians 2:3-4: "Doing nothing through rivalry or through conceit, but in humility, each counting others better than himself; each of you not just looking to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others." This is the mindset of Christ, and as you yield to Him, He will transform your desires to align with His will.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your son, Jesus Christ, through whom we have access to Your throne of grace. We thank You for the blessings You have poured out upon this dear brother/sister and their family, and we ask that You continue to surround them with Your favor and protection. Lord, we lift up their confession before You, knowing that You are faithful to forgive and cleanse. Wash them anew in the blood of Jesus, and fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may walk in righteousness and humility.
Father, we pray that You would replace any selfish ambition with a heart that beats for Your kingdom and for the needs of others. Open their eyes to the opportunities You place before them to serve, to love, and to reflect Your light in this world. Help them to die to self daily, just as Christ laid down His life for us, that they may live fully for Your glory. Strengthen them in their faith, and let their life be a testimony of Your transforming power.
We ask for a spirit of generosity, compassion, and wisdom to guide their steps as they seek to bless others. May they find joy in giving, just as You have given so abundantly to us. Guard their heart and mind against the distractions of the world, and keep them rooted in Your Word, that they may discern Your will in all things.
Finally, Lord, we pray for their family—that You would bind them together in love, unity, and faith. May their home be a place where Your presence dwells, and may they be a beacon of hope to those around them. We ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, to whom belongs all glory, honor, and praise, forever and ever. Amen.
We encourage you to continue seeking the Lord in all things, for He is your strength and your portion. As you step out in faith to serve others, remember that even the smallest act of love done in His name is significant in His kingdom. Be filled with the joy of the Lord, for His yoke is easy, and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30). Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, and He will lead you into all righteousness. We are standing with you in prayer, believing that God will do exceeding abundantly above all that you ask or think, according to the power that works in you (Ephesians 3:20).