I’ve been a little dry in the joy department for the last several weeks… This morning, I offer a prayer to refresh joy in our lives. I find one of the best ways to do this is to pray through a psalm or two (or three, depending on just how dry I feel…).
Father God, our Lord in Zion, all praise is due You, and to You alone shall all vows be made. Please hear our prayers, and dwell with us, forgive our sin, and guard us against temptations. We are blessed when we are near to You. We are satisfied with the goodness of Your gifts and the holiness of Your presence. You are awesome in deeds and respond to us in righteousness. We are in awe at Your wonders, and every day the sun miraculously rises and sets by Your command. Your living water flows endlessly, Your rains upon the earth bring life and joy. The mountains, valleys, and all of creation are arrayed in Your splendor, and bring us great cause for joy. We praise You for making Your face shine upon us, and for blessing us with Your radiant presence. May You be known across all of the earth, and may all nations praise Your name. May all people be glad and sing for joy because of Your mighty ways O Lord. You bring us countless blessings and increase as we seek to praise and serve You. You restore those who are weak or poor, filling their mouths with laughter and shouts of joy. You have done great things for all, far greater than we could ever deserve. May all who weep or tire be refreshed in their joy at the sound of Your voice. May every breath, word and action be unto Your glory, our Almighty God and Merciful Creator. We praise Your compassionate and generous ways, and seek to love You with all of our beings, forever and ever, amen.
[Inspired by Psa 65, 67, 126]
~ Conqueror in Training