Tag: holidays

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

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To Prepare for the Holidays

Dear Lord,
As October gives way to November, Thanksgiving and the holidays will be here soon. This time of year brings many opportunities for gathering together with family and friends, which can also usher in plenty of stress and anxiety. Keep me grounded in what matters – you – and guard me from over-scheduling and overcommitting myself and/or my family. Help those inclined to say yes to too much because they struggle with people-pleasing. Provide them with gracious and thoughtful responses to politely decline unnecessary activities or events. Let us manage our time well right now so that we allow opportunity for looking ahead and being well-prepared and ready for the upcoming weeks. In doing so, we can establish margin and boundaries to ensure that the holidays bring more blessing than burden.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

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To Be Aware of Those Hurting During the Holidays

Compassionate Savior,
The weeks ahead will be filled with busy activities in homes, at schools, and in the workplace. While these events are generally a source of warmth and happiness as we gather and socialize, this time of year can also be painful for many.

Memories from past painful events that took place during this time of year can resurface and dull the delight of those affected by them. Hearts are made heavy by the remembrance of loved ones who passed away during this season, no matter how long ago. Current career stress and end of the year job responsibilities can also factor into the frustration many experience. 

Enable me to be aware of the hurts of others during the holidays. Grant me sensitivity to engage meaningfully with those who are struggling, so that I am able to provide them with needed support and hope. Make me a bright spot when they feel surrounded by darkness. Through my compassion, help them catch a glimpse of yours, so that they may know how much they are cared for.  

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

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For Guidance in the Months Ahead

Holy Spirit,
As I begin a new month and the holidays are around the corner, guide me along your paths as I navigate what is ahead. Schedules will get filled and family will gather. Responsibilities may increase and work pressures may rise as the end of the year looms in the not-too-distant future. Help me to keep the main thing the main thing so that I am not overwhelmed by stress. Grant me the wisdom and foresight to plan ahead as much as possible so that I am prepared. Help me anticipate any possible curveballs I may face in life, with the understanding that I am not attempting to control everything around me, but rather seeking to avoid being caught off guard. 

Looking ahead to Thanksgiving and Christmas, shield me from secular pressure to somehow make them “more special.” Allow me to find the simple joy of the treasured blessings you offer me through them and help me direct others to do the same.   

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.