DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Our Nation’s Independence

God of Freedom,
Today we celebrate the freedoms our nation has had since being established 250 years ago. Since you alone determine the duration of nations and the rise and fall of civilizations, we thank you for establishing and sustaining the United States of America for two and a half centuries. Over that time, you have guided and directed the course of our history to result in tremendous blessings not only for our nation, but worldwide. The freedoms we enjoy are absolute treasures, and we plead for your intervention whenever those are threatened. Yet like all other nations, we are not without our faults, so we daily need your patient forgiveness and rich mercy. Heal division within our nation and unite us with like-minded goals in pursuit of the greatest good for all people. Protect us from all who seek to destroy or undermine our blessed country in any way, whether those enemies are internal or external. Let your church also thrive at this time, taking advantage of the freedoms we are permitted to sow the seed of the gospel. Through that gospel, bring many more to faith, while also creating responsible, respectful, honorable, obedient, and loving citizens who will continue to uphold and defend this great nation.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Your Blessing on July 4th Travel and Celebration

Dear Lord,
Many in our country will be traveling today and begin celebrating the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s independence. Direct your watchful angels to guard and protect all those traveling near and far, guiding them to safe arrivals. Grant your favor on all who have planned and are hosting gatherings and events, allowing everything to go as smoothly as possible. Prepare paramedics and first responders to also be ready for when things do not go according to plan. See that festivities are carried out and conducted responsibly, so that people do not put themselves or others in danger. Prohibit irresponsible or excessive partying that dishonors you or reflects poorly on our nation. Instead, bless the celebrations this weekend with joy, laughter, and a deeper awe and appreciation of the profound privilege of being a citizen of the United States of America.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

To Avoid Political Idolatry

Almighty God,
While not without its faults, we are blessed in so many ways to have the government and political system that we do, based on such an impressively written document as the Constitution. However, as our society has gradually set you aside, someone or something else inevitably fills the vacuum to be idolized and worshiped. For many in our nation, that void has been filled by politics. Citizens on both sides of the political aisle deify their own party and demonize the other. One side is savior, the other is satan. One side is the cause of all the problems, the other has all the solutions. Guard us as Christians from idolizing politics, elevating it to a position of prominence that only you deserve. Guide us to avoid extremist views and hold a balanced perspective. Help us to truly appreciate the government you’ve given us, without ever forgetting that it’s you who has given it to us. Let us honor, respect, and obey those to whom you’ve given the authority to govern, but let our hearts and our worship be always and only directed to you. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

To Pray Properly for Our Government

Dear Father,
You call on believers not only to honor and respect their government leaders, but also to pray for them. If only we knew how often you allow our prayers to shape and influence government practices and policies, surely we would offer up our petitions with much greater frequency! When we bring our prayers, let them be driven by the unique needs of elected officials in their respective roles, as well as the needs of the citizens of our country. And, although your kingdom comes through the gospel and not through those carrying political power, we nevertheless pray for leaders to fulfill their obligations in a way that doesn’t hinder the work of your kingdom and your church. While party affiliations, platforms, and policies will understandably come into consideration in our prayers, do not allow them to taint our prayers by letting bitterness, resentment, or animosity toward individuals flow from our hearts. Through our prayers, bless all those who serve in our government as you see fit. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

To Celebrate Responsibly

Gracious Father,
This time of year offers many parties and opportunities to celebrate. As the final weekend before Christmas arrives, and the celebrations continue into next week, I want to celebrate responsibly. Where I find myself in tempting situations, whether the source of those enticements are people, food, or drink, help me to maintain my self-control. While secular celebrations may be viewed by many as invitations to promiscuity, gluttony, or drunkenness, I know better.

Wanting to walk in your footsteps, especially in light of the gift of Jesus who is the reason for my celebration, guard my heart and my steps from meandering down paths of unrighteousness. You have set me apart so that my life stands out to others as different from the rest of the world. Give me the discipline and determination to represent you well and honor you in my celebration of your birth. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.