DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For the Blessing of Siblings

Loving Father,
One of the many blessings you bring us through our families is the gift of siblings. Thank you for brothers and sisters, for the tight bonds between them, and for having someone to share the experiences of childhood and being raised together. Though we aren’t always aware of it, siblings are often looking out for us and even defending us. Younger siblings can learn from and imitate the best of older siblings, and having younger siblings can help foster a nurturing and protective spirit in older brothers and sisters. Even though there is bickering and fighting at times, those provide valuable learning opportunities to work through repentance, reconciliation, and forgiveness. As siblings establish families of their own, nephews and nieces introduce the privilege of being uncles and aunts. Brothers and sisters can also share the responsibility of caring for aging parents. Bless siblings with healthy relationships, fond memories, and special joys throughout their lives.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Families with Little Ones in Worship

Heavenly Father,
Sundays are sacred. Jesus told his disciples to let the little children come to him. Therefore, I thank you for young parents and families who faithfully attend worship. That season of life can be filled with more than enough hassle and headaches that would make it easy to stay home. Those parents recognize not only their own spiritual needs, but also the needs of their children. They are establishing healthy worship habits that can serve to bless their children for a lifetime.

When their Saturday evenings or Sunday mornings are filled with stress and frustration, and the pull to just stay home is strong, let your Spirit provide the determination they need to stay the course. And, when they do, and little ones are out of sorts or unsettled during worship, give other worshipers an extra measure of patience, and remind them how good and healthy it is to have little ones together in worship. At the same time, give parents the discernment to recognize when circumstances call for them to take a break if little ones have become a distraction for other worshipers, while also compelling other worshipers to lend a helping hand whenever possible. When we view worship not just as an opportunity to be served, but to serve, we’ll gladly welcome all worshipers – including children – and rejoice that they are present. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.