Tag: challenging

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

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For the Confidence to Have the Difficult Conversation

Dear Jesus,
Today I pray for the courage to finally have a difficult conversation I’ve been avoiding for too long. I’ve played out how the conversation could go so many times in my mind, and I’ve allowed my fear of the possible outcome to paralyze and prevent me from actually initiating it. I know avoiding it is not the solution; it only prolongs the burdensome weight of unnecessarily carrying the extra emotional baggage around. Give me a spirit of self-discipline to lay out the steps necessary to finally have this conversation, and the humble confidence to patiently, lovingly carry it out. Guide me to trust you to provide the words I need, give me grace in speaking them, and grant that what I say is heard and received in a healthy way and with understanding. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

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For the Courage to Have Difficult Conversations

Holy Spirit,
When conflict arises or difficult issues requiring resolution become apparent, it is tempting to avoid them and hope that doing so will smooth things over. I either avoid the person or people altogether, or simply avoid bringing up the specific subject with them. But actively avoiding the issue not only fails to resolve the matter; it actually makes it worse! Either I unrealistically talk myself into pretending everything is fine, or I allow imaginary worst-case scenarios to begin taking shape in my mind. Neither option is helpful, but is instead quite disruptive.

Give me the determination to have the difficult conversations, not because I enjoy conflict, but because I desire the blessing of resolution. When I do engage, make me mindful of my tone and body language, too. Grant me patience, a spirit willing to listen, and the wisdom to speak words that are well thought out and winsome. Provide clarity to all involved in difficult discussions, to avoid personal attacks, talking past others, or getting off topic. Lead me to speak the truth in love, and create in me a genuine desire to build up, repair, and resolve in a way that is in the best interest of everyone involved.  

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.