“Jesus responded, ‘Truly I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. A slave does not remain in the household forever, but a son does remain forever. So if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.’”
John 8:34-36
Prayer:
Father, thank you that I am your son/daughter and that I’ve been set free. I am not a slave to sin and I have not been given a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead you’ve given me the Spirit of adoption, by whom I cry out, “Abba, Father!” (Romans 8:15). Father, as your child you want me to love others as I love myself (Romans 13:9). I confess that I need your help to love others. My love for others is often conditional and selfish, especially to those closest to me. Lord, forgive me for the times I am selfish, unloving, and critical of others. Forgive me the times that I am prideful and don’t tell others that I am sorry when I hurt them. Help me to love others like you love me. Set me free from old ways of thinking and responding to people and fill my heart with your love. Let your love through me bring hope, healing, encouragement, and joy to those around me. Forgive me for looking to other people to heal me, make me whole, and fill my deepest needs. Jesus, you are the only one who can heal my heart, make me whole, and fulfill my deepest needs. Lord, give me wisdom in all of my relationships and lead me in your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.
- For those of you who are married: Ask God to show you if you have hurt your spouse in some way. Ask God to forgive you, and then ask your spouse to forgive you. Don’t expect anything from your spouse, as it may take time for them to forgive you. Remain faithful and pray for your spouse.
- For those of you who are parents: Ask God to show you if you have done anything to hurt your son/daughter. Ask Got to forgive you and then ask your son/daughter to forgive you. It may take time for your son/daughter to forgive you. Continue to demonstrate love to your son/daughter and pray for them.
40 Days of Prayer 