Pray one for another

Father, we praise You as the humble God who came down. You did rend the heavens in Jesus, who emptied Himself, "taking the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). You are our Father. "We are the clay, and You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand" (Isaiah 64:8). So we place our lives in Your hands again today.

Lord, You see what weighs on us. We bring You our money worries and our bills, our jobs and the fear of losing them, and the health of our bodies. In all Your people's distress, You were afflicted with them (Isaiah 63:9), so we know You care. Please provide what we need, and let us not labor in vain (Isaiah 65:23). When temptation flatters us or offers a secret shortcut, give us wisdom to see the trap and walk away.

We lift up our husbands and wives, our sons and daughters. Protect them, draw them close to You, and bring healing where there is sickness. Make our homes "united in spirit and purpose" (Philippians 2:2). Teach us to look not only to our own interests, "but also to the interests of others" (Philippians 2:4), beginning with the people at our own tables.

Thank You for Your promise: "Even before they call, I will answer, and while they are still speaking, I will hear" (Isaiah 65:24). Help us trust You with what we cannot control. Work in us "to will and to act on behalf of [Your] good purpose" (Philippians 2:13). In Jesus' name, amen.

Amen.