We come before the throne of grace with hearts full of gratitude for your presence and your work in our lives. We lift up this request, acknowledging that it is only through the name of Jesus Christ that we have access to the Father. As it is written in John 14:6, "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.'" There is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). If you have not yet placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we encourage you to do so today. Confess your sins, believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9).
We see your desire to be drawn closer to one another and to the Lord, and we join with you in this prayer. The Bible tells us in James 4:8, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." What a beautiful promise! Let us also remember that as we seek to grow closer to God, He will work in our relationships to bring unity and love, for He is the author of peace and the binder of hearts.
Father, we thank You for Your goodness and Your mercy that endures forever. We ask that You would draw us closer to You and to one another. Help us to seek Your face daily and to walk in Your ways. Lord, we also ask for Your deliverance from evil. Protect us from the schemes of the enemy, who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. We put on the full armor of God, that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:11). Strengthen us in our inner being, that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith, and that we may be rooted and grounded in love (Ephesians 3:16-17).
We rebuke any influence of the enemy that seeks to divide, discourage, or destroy. We declare that no weapon formed against us shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against us in judgment, we condemn (Isaiah 54:17). We stand firm in the victory that Christ has already won on the cross.
Lord, we pray for the children mentioned in this request. Guard their hearts and minds, and let them grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men, just as Jesus did (Luke 2:52). May they come to know You at an early age and walk in the purpose You have for their lives.
We also lift up any areas of struggle or temptation, asking that You would provide a way of escape, that we may be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13). Help us to flee from all appearance of evil and to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11).
In all things, may Your will be done in our lives. We surrender our plans, our desires, and our relationships to You, trusting that You work all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28). May our lives bring glory and honor to Your holy name.
We pray all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.