Prayer of the Day

Lord, there is something in front of me that I am afraid of, and I cannot walk around it. The only way is through. So before I take the first step, I take this one: I pray.

You told Joshua to be strong and of good courage — not because the giants weren't real, but because You were going with him. Go with me now, Father.

Give me strength for what this will cost, and courage for the moment my nerve wants to fail. Steady my voice if I have to speak. Steady my hands if I have to act. Steady my heart either way.

I don't ask to feel fearless. I ask to be faithful while afraid — to do the right thing scared, if that's what it takes.

And when it is over, whatever the outcome, let me look back and see that You were there the whole time, just as You promised.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Father, here is my child, almost asleep. Of everything You've trusted me with, this is the one that makes me pray the hardest.

Watch over this child tonight. Keep their sleep sweet and their dreams kind. Let them wake up rested, ready to laugh.

Thank You for who You made them to be — for the questions they ask, the way they see things, the particular joy they carry into a room. I forget to be amazed. Tonight I remember.

Grow them up strong and gentle, Lord. Give them courage for a world I can't follow them into, and a faith that's truly their own, not borrowed from mine.

Forgive me for the ways I fell short as a parent today. Cover my gaps with Your grace — You have always been the better Father.

Hold them tonight, and hold them always, long after my arms can't reach.

In Jesus' name, Amen.