Thinking About A New Year

Hey, Sweet Things! I’ve been praying for you this very day. I’ve especially been praying for those of you who’ve commented about how much you want to do the Scripture memory but you’re scared of failing. First of all, I pray that God is going to give you a glimpse of what your brilliant little mind is capable of doing when doused in His Word. Second, if you spend the year meditating on 24 verses, I pray that you’ll realize that you cannot fail. It will produce a harvest whether or not you get each Scripture down word for word. The captivated mind that tears down strongholds is what we’re after. Keep that before you. Pray for a supernatural unction to internalize Scripture then thank God for it in advance. He makes a way for us to obey what He wills for us to do.

Now, on to something that I keep pondering this morning. Like many of you, I’m a thinker. Years don’t come to ends or beginnings without me getting caught up in what’s behind or in front of me. That’s good if it leads to change. That’s bad if it leads to dread. We’ve all heard this definition of insanity: doing the same thing the same way and expecting something different. Yet, for the most part,  we live life in that maddening loop. One of the things God has taught me along the way is to try to hear from Him about one area at a time that He’s pinpointing for change. Much more than that is too overwhelming. Anyway, He’s a God who’s into process with the lives of His children. We need look no further than Philippians 1:6 for proof of that. What He may begin in an instant He may complete over a lifetime. Instead of making a list of resolutions for 2011 that are broken by the time they’re spoken, is there simply one thing about us we really wish to change? I could think of a dozen things I’d like to change but this is the one I think God is pinpointing as our joint effort for the top of 2011: a mental loop I tend to get into when I get offended or hurt by someone I love. I have come to believe that my first minute’s reaction is what determines the cycle of the next (usually miserable) two days. So, here’s my specific prayer for the end of 2010 and the beginning of 2011.

My Dearest Abba Father,

I’ve lived long enough to know that any 12-month period of time on Planet Earth winds a pathway through thicket and thorns. It’s just too long a period of time not to get hurt or offended. I also know that You have tucked many joys in the oncoming year and I don’t want to miss them because I can’t quit obsessing over what’s hard. You’ve gone to measurable lengths in the last year to show me how the enemy of my soul operates in one specific area: he can’t block You from blessing Your children so he tries to block Your children from enjoying it. I do not want him to cheat me of reaping from anything rich You send my way this year. Even the treasures hidden in darkness. As this year ends and a new one begins, I am so thankful that I have Your Spirit without limit in my life and that, with You, change in a long pattern really is possible. You’ve done it before in my life. Come do it again. I am asking You in particular, Abba Father, to run to my aid in that first moment when an opportunity for offense happens and urge me by Your Holy Spirit to head into a thought-loop that spirals upward rather than downward. Simply put, help me to get over things fast. Honestly, Lord, sometimes I just make life harder than it has to be. Some things that wound me aren’t even about me. Help me to see where I’m jumping into somebody else’s loop and to quit getting hung by my own. I choose joy in resting this petition at Your feet, Lord, and I refuse self-condemnation or fruitless regret. You never would have brought this to the forefront and called for it in prayer if You didn’t have something good in mind. You began this work. Now come and take it to the next level. I’m excited about it, Lord, and see a glimpse of liberty on the horizon. Thank You, Father.

If you also want to post a prayer about ONE THING you’re asking God to do in you toward a more victorious 2011, feel free. There’s something about writing it down in a public place that makes it memorable. A record you can go back and read can be a beautiful thing. Try to resist wallowing and writhing in these  public requests. It’s Satan who tries to make prayer a dreaded exercise in self-loathing. In God’s economy, even when our prayers are mostly pleas of repentance, they lead us to relief.

Hey, Siestas, let’s not respond to each other’s comments this time. By all means, let’s pray for each other but let’s leave the response space to God.

I’m honored to walk with you into 2011, dear sisters. We’re getting closer to the 1st! Hold your head up or you might miss your new beginning!

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805 Responses to “Thinking About A New Year”

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  1. 51
    Susan says:

    Lord, I echo Beth’s prayer. Even today I was offended by a loved one about something so silly, but I pray, Lord, that this year you help me to let things go quickly; to be a good forgiver; and to be a good receiver of your forgiveness so that I can lavish it and your grace on others. May 2011 bring you glory whatever it may hold.

  2. 52
    DM says:

    Dear Lord,
    Please help me to stop having obsessive thoughts about something happening to my husband or children. I want to stop looking into every detail thinking you are preparing me for the worst(Even I think that is silly as I type, Lord, but you and I both know I live it). I want to have freedom in my mind and rest in Your promises this year.

    • 52.1

      Isaiah 43:1-13 (NKJV)
      1 But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.
      2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
      3 For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place.
      4 Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honored, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life.
      5 Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, And gather you from the west;
      6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ And to the south, ‘Do not keep them back!’ Bring My sons from afar, And My daughters from the ends of the earth–
      7 Everyone who is called by My name, Whom I have created for My glory; I have formed him, yes, I have made him.”
      8 Bring out the blind people who have eyes, And the deaf who have ears.
      9 Let all the nations be gathered together, And let the people be assembled. Who among them can declare this, And show us former things? Let them bring out their witnesses, that they may be justified; Or let them hear and say, “It is truth.”
      10 “You are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “And My servant whom I have chosen, That you may know and believe Me, And understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, Nor shall there be after Me.
      11 I, even I, am the Lord, And besides Me there is no savior.
      12 I have declared and saved, I have proclaimed, And there was no foreign god among you; Therefore you are My witnesses,” Says the Lord, “that I am God.
      13 Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?”

      Prayign these words over you tonight.

  3. 53
    Lissa says:

    I will not be discouraged. I will choose to praise Him. No matter the mess I’m in, God is with me in it. He will pull me out. Lord, I will choose joy, no matter what.

    “Why am I discouraged?
    Why is my heart so sad?
    I will put my hope in God!
    I will praise Him again,
    my Savior and my God.

  4. 54
    Melinda says:

    I would love to be free of my nailbiting habit. I am going to turn 40 this year and I have bitten my nails since junior high. I do it in times of stress and anxiety, but also out of compulsion… it seems I am constantly feeling my cuticles, picking them – even when there is no stress i can identify. I have tried off and on over the years to quit with no long-term success. I have even resigned myslef to being a nailbiter for life. But I hate being enslaved to it. It may seem like a small thing compared to other, more serious addictions, but I have no power to stop it on my own. I even had artificial nails for awhile, and actually ended up biting them after a few weeks! I feel compelled to pick things off my nails, or bite them even when they are sore. I have made myself bleed… I want to wear pretty rings, but avoid drawing attention to my nail bitten hands. Something about biting my nails is strangely satisfying… maybe it gives me an outlet for internalized stress. I don’t know. But I am going to start praying that the Lord will remove the overwhelming and nearly constant desire I have to pick and bite my nails and cuticles. I struggle even now with posting this publicly, for fear that I will be unable to do it. Please pray for me.

    • 54.1
      Jennifer says:

      Melinda,

      Dear sister, I struggle with this, too! All of my life (I am 38). It’s something that has shamed me more times than I care to remember. No, it’s not as serious as other addictions, but it comes with its own unique pain.

      I am clinging to the smallest shred of nail growth right now with every two-week appointments with a spa down the street from my work. This holds me accountable because I hate paying for something then ruining it. No, it’s not free, but it is the thing that works for me now.

      I will pray right now for this grip to be broken in your life. I would covet your prayers, too.

      • Melinda says:

        Thank you for responding! It’s good to know I am not alone in this struggle…I’ve already caught myself nibbling several times since I posted that, and I’ve been tempted to think, “See… it’s useless. Just accept it as a permanent struggle.” But I can’t help but believe that if God can raise the dead he can give me victory over something this small. I just don’t know where to begin… I have to really WANT to stop, you know? It’s very satisfying in a sick sort of way, and I’ve donr it for so long that I’m often not even aware I’m doing it. Other times I’m completely aware, and just don’t want to stop! Sheesh. I will pray for you, too. I like the idea of spa appointments. Maybe I’ll try that. I’m just afraid it wouldn’t be enough.
        Thanks again for responding.

  5. 55
    Heidi says:

    Dearest Father God, Closest Friend Jesus, and Comforter/ Convicter Holy Spirit,
    I proclaim publicly and afresh that I need you desperately. It is so amazing that Beth verbalized the very thing that I struggle with…hurt and offense from the ones/one I hold most dear. First and foremost, please do a new work in my 32 and 1/2 year marriage. Touch me and help me to be the wife you want me to be. Work in those places of need in my husband that you know far better than me. Draw us closer as we settle into this new phase of “empty-nesting.” Help! Do a new thing there. Let each of us allow you to meet our deepest heart’s desires. Give us grace and a new love for one another. Help us have some FUN! You know the discouragements that each of us face. Help us to move forward and finish the race strong. If that is the one thing I focus on in 2011 and continually commit my marriage to you, by faith I declare that I will not be disappointed. Marriage is a reflection of your love for the church. Help us not to dishonor you as we struggle in our relationship. Thank you that you are an ever-present help in times of need and a friend that sticks closer than a brother. I love you.
    (Thank you, Beth, for your sensitivity to the Lord and for so faithfully sharing with us. You always seem to get it exactly right!)

  6. 56
    Joni says:

    Dear Father in Heaven,
    I don’t want to be lukewarm and I don’t want to be cold. I want to be on fire for You and with You. I want to care about what You care about, and I want to hear Your voice and discern your leading. I need more of You in me. I thank You in advance for the changes You are going to make in me in 2011. In the mighty Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

    • 56.1

      Song of Songs 8:6 (MSG)
      6 Hang my locket around your neck, wear my ring on your finger. Love is invincible facing danger and death. Passion laughs at the terrors of hell. The fire of love stops at nothing— it sweeps everything before it.

      His locket of love is around your neck, His ring upon your finger… I pray in the next year the Lord would cover you with His love and passion – that burning fire that stops at nothing and consumes you with His burning love.

  7. 57
    SHANNON says:

    Oh 2011 is going to be a year of change for me! My employer is about to be sold; I’m hoping to start a small business; and I’m getting married! It’s going to be a wild ride! So often, I allow fear to rule me. My prayer for the coming year (and frankly, the rest of my life) is that I would take the myriad of times the Lord says in Scripture, “Do not fear!” less as a suggestion and more as a mandate on the life of His beloved daughter! Would that I would learn to trust in His design and plan!

  8. 58
    Church Lady says:

    I pray that the Lord would empower me to have more self-control in my life. I want to see the things that He has pointed out in my life as victories not a never ending cycle of defeat. I pray, Lord please change me!!

  9. 59
    Aileen says:

    Lord, my prayer for this year is that you would help me to TRUST YOU in all things. I do know that because I am yours, my life should be more full of joy and peace than if I lived apart from you. I want to be able to reap the benefits that come from trusting you to lead me and guide me. I too feel overwhelmed and anxious, fearful that I will “miss” your direction and will for my life. Help me to see you working in my life and allow you to do a new thing in my heart and in the lives of those around me.

  10. 60
    Carole says:

    Oh Beth, it is like you are reading my mind and my life! Well, we both know it is God doing the reading. I need to learn to trust that is also God doing the writing. I am having a powerful struggle right now with my thoughts and fears for the future regarding my continued singleness (I am 44 and never married). I desire to get married and as each year passes, it seems like that isn’t going to happen. I am praying that this year God will change this circumstance and bring me a Godly husband. And, if that is not the story God is writing for me, He will change me to trust that it is ok and to trust in this different plan He has for me.

  11. 61
    Katie says:

    Dear Lord,
    I’m praying that this year I will let you in completely and allow you to finally heal me from my life-long “friend”, fear. I’m tired of letting fear hold me back from being the person you created me to be. Help me take that first step Father as I meditate on your word – Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid of them. Don’t be terrified because of them. The Lord your God will go with you. He will never leave you. He’ll never desert you.”

    • 61.1

      Revelation 3:20 (AMP)
      20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears and listens to and heeds My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will eat with him, and he [will eat] with Me.

      Revelation 4:1-11 (NKJV)
      1 After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven. And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, “Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.”
      2 Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne.
      3 And He who sat there was like a jasper and a sardius stone in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald.
      4 Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads.
      5 And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.
      6 Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes in front and in back.
      7 The first living creature was like a lion, the second living creature like a calf, the third living creature had a face like a man, and the fourth living creature was like a flying eagle.
      8 The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!”
      9 Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever,
      10 the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:
      11 “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”

      Praying these words over you tonight, sweet siesta.

      As you call out to Him, I hear Him say, “Call to Me and I will answer and tell you great and unsearchable things you have never known.” (Jer. 33:6 my paraphrase)

  12. 62
    tammy says:

    Father,

    I’m heading into a confusing year. I 2011 to be a year I’m closer to you. More intimate with you and yet I feel distant. Like you are hear with me but not as close as I’d like. I feel our ministry falling apart and I dont understand….yet I know you are aware of all and in charge of all. Help me to stay joyful to stay faithful or to turn and go to where you want me. A new me is emergeing with the weight loss and new hurts are coming with it and it’s confusing as well. Give me clarity Lord. Show me who I am and help me hold on to that. Show me who you want me to be…not who the world wants me to be…or my family wants me to be…but only who YOU want me to be and show me how to get there. Walk with me on this continued quest of health. Silence the comments that would distress me…or give the correct ears to hear them Lord. Show me the Godly man you have for me. Silence the fear and bitterness that has come from all the hurt friends and family have experienced in relationships. They are not me. Things don’t always end badly. Teach me, mold me, hold and comfort me. Make me a warrior for you help me not to live in the past but to embrace the future you have for me, the ministry and the church. I love you Lord. You are my everything, my hope, my future, my confidence.

  13. 63
    Jennifer says:

    Father, You alone know how dread and anxiety about my health and even just fear of being afraid have worked on my mind these past couple years. I don’t want to be afraid anymore and I’m choosing to trust you to bring my mind captive to You. Help me in my weakness. This is a promise I can cling to and know that my hope will not be put to shame. You tell me that I am free in You and that’s a promise. I don’t have to wander if it applies to me or if You will honor the request. I am meant to have an abundantly free mind and spirit, and I claim back for myself what the enemy has tried to take from me. Thank you!

  14. 64
    Redeemed says:

    Father,
    I cry out to You. I’m desperate for You. I have found myself yet again, lying like an invalid by the pool…waiting. Blaming. Pitying myself into oblivion. Spiraling down into depression and anxiety, wondering why someone won’t pick me up and carry me. YOU ALREADY HAVE. YOU’VE HEALED ME AND SET ME FREE….and I keep taking my mat and heading back to my pity party by the pool. Just this morning You asked me “Do you WANT to get well?” Yes, I do. YES I DO.
    I want to walk. I want to MOVE ON. I want to BEAR FRUIT. I don’t want to keep circling around this same mountain, meddling with an enemy You’ve told me to leave behind. (Deuteronomy 2:1-7) My ONE THING I bring before You today is this: I want YOU, I want to please YOU, I want to follow YOU. I don’t want to listen to the voice of that enemy, telling me what I CAN’T do. I throw off this depression and fear. I move past the issue that has dogged me over the last few months. I fix my eyes on YOU, and I thank You for opening them to the dirty tricks I’ve been falling for. Thank You for setting me free. Thank You for leading me. I love You. Thank You for our teacher, Beth, and for all these Siestas You have added here.
    In the Peaceful, Healing, Awesome Name above All Names
    JESUS,
    Amen and Amen.

    • 64.1
      Harmony says:

      Redeemed,
      What a beautiful, moving, heartfelt prayer. You have echoed my sentiments this year. I hope this is the year you too can put it all behind you and let the Lord guide your future footsteps.

  15. 65
    Nichole C says:

    I’m engaging in a “one word resolution” as presented to me by the author of the blog – Grit and Glory.

    http://www.gritandglory.com/2010/12/22/one-word-2011/

  16. 66
    Tracy says:

    Dearest God,

    Forgive me of spending much time lusting and little time loving the one you gave me. Help me to see him through your eyes. Help me to love him the way you love the both of us. Rid me of the anger and bitterness I carry with me for past wrongs. Renew my mind and my heart of your love, so that I can open my heart to give my complete self to him, just as you gave your complete Son to us. No matter what, give me the courage to allow You to be my center and focus in the process. Satan has spent much time trying to tear apart what you brought together in our covenant marriage. Please do battle on our behalf to save what we still have.

    In the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.

    • 66.1
      Sallye says:

      Father God, I lift Tracy to You, knowing that You have heard not only her words but her heart as well. Father remind her of the joy, love, and commitment that she felt when she vowed herself to her love. Help her to see again the looks of total love and commitment that were upon their faces. Father marriage matters to You, and Father I ask that each day You will raise Tracy up and plant within her a new love for her husband, Father that she would allow You to love him through her. Father cause her eyes, heart, and mind to be focused only on her husband. Father please forgive Tracy of her lustful thoughts, Father equip her to take every thought in to captivity, and to bring down this stronghold.

      Father I know that You are have plans for Tracy and her husband, and that You will use what she is walking thru to minister to others. Father do not let what You have joined together be broken.

      In Jesus name.

  17. 67
    dendy says:

    Father, please release me from a sense of entitlement. I want to enjoy all that you have in store for me this year. Please help me to release disappointment and try to see the good in my situation. Help me to not always feel like the victim. Help me to choose to be positive so that my actions would glorify you and I would not be controlled by my anger. Help me to have faith and trust in you to do what you have promised. I thank you for what I know you will do for me. I love you. Amen.

  18. 68
    Amber Moon says:

    Dear Heavenly Father, I come to you in prayer through Your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ asking that you guide my every thought, word, and action in the new year. I pray Lord that Your Spirit will fill me and rebuke Satan’s attempted attacks on my soul. Help me, oh God, to be firm on The Rock in whatever situation I find myself in and help me to be more aware of the situations I get into. Pastor Dale told me last year that we choose what we put into our little red wagons and I believe you spoke those words through him to make a point to me. I pray for your discernment to penetrate my every fiber of being so that my choices may glorify you. Purify me Lord and may 2011 be a year of victories in Jesus’ holy name!

    I love you God!
    Amen

  19. 69
    Dionna says:

    I’m asking God to show me how to spend my time. What to prioritize within my ministry and church commitments and what I need to let go of.

    I also really want to make more time to read this year.

  20. 70
    HulaHeart says:

    Father,
    Thank you for times of reflection and focus the new year brings. I ask You to teach me how to be a good wife, a real Proverbs 31 kind-of-gal! I ask for strength and wisdom and grace to follow-through with Your teachings. Thank you for being my Teacher and Counselor, and Comforter, and Friend! 🙂 I love you, too! 🙂

  21. 71
    becca banana says:

    Lord, I trust you to make 2011 the Year of JOY.

  22. 72
    Melanie says:

    Father God,

    As 2010 comes to an end I have been sensing You asking me to truly LIVE. I pray that in 2011 I will continuously choose to LIVE in You, for You, and because of You. I want to live and make the most of every moment in Your freedom, love, security, and good promises. I know that You are life itself and that my life is a gift. I want to live it up with gratefulness and for Your will and glory.

    In the Risen Name of Jesus Christ I pray.

    • 72.1

      John 15:11 (AMP)
      11 I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing.

      Playing that 2011 is OVERFLOWING WITH LIFE and fully living for you, Melanie.

  23. 73

    Abba, I pray you would teach me to trust in a way that’s not obsessive or constantly wary of hurt. You’ve given me a compassion for others, but I abuse it sometimes. Lord, I just want you to take my friendships. Take everything I’m involved in and make it fully Yours. Teach me to let go of fixing and planning to perfection and just give YOU control.

  24. 74
    Kate says:

    I pray that the Lord helps me to get over always having to have things go exactly my way. I have allowed satan to steal the joy and blessing Christ has given me for far too long, and all too often and I’m sick of it.
    Jesus, please, help me. Help me to not get so upset if everything isnt “just so” or doesnt go exactly according to MY plans. Jesus, its not about me, its about You and YOU are in control. I thank you and praise you for being in control of my life and for lovingly molding me to look more like you-even when its painful. Jesus, I need your supernatural teaching to take hold of my heart and my temper and teach me to be more patient and flexible with the time and people you’ve put in my life. I love you with my whole heart Lord and want to glorify You in all my actions and reactions in this life because You are worthy of all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise.

  25. 75
    Pam says:

    Dear Lord,

    PLEASE heal my body from this chronic Lyme Disease. Please show me your beautiful grace and mercy and breathe life back into this broken body of mine. Please help me continue to cling to your promises and to always know that you will win…everytime! I’m tired in my heart, my mind and especially my body, Lord. I need you so badly, Father. Please hear my cries that 2011 will be the year for great changes in every area of my life, but mostly with my crumbling health. And please help me continue to want to pray for others and lift others in their time of need.

  26. 76
    Traci says:

    Father I come to you asking for lots of grace as I step into a new season of my life. I want to be a modeler of grace. I pray for a changed heart in the area of fear…a heart that lives in the present and a life that recognizes your Presence. Fear is the root of many trip ups in my life. Help me live today…give me eyes to see the beauty of today. I want to love big…and listen well. Thank you that you stick with me and that you are my biggest fan in my desire for change. I love you so much.

  27. 77
    Michele says:

    Father God, I would have to say “ditto” to Beth’s prayer. I don’t want what is happening ‘outside’ of me (or to me and my family) or even things that just continue to go on ‘inside’ me to keep me from living my life, for You, to the fullest. With Joy. And Peace. And lovingness. And living beyond my hurts and disappointments. To genuinely love others with Your love, no matter what. To live out a life that totally reflects You, know matter what. I love you Father. I am so thankful for your provision this year and for even “visiting” me this Christmas. I LOVE You.
    In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

  28. 78
    Ginger says:

    Father God,
    Someone has hurt me. I understand so completely what it is like to be hurt or betrayed, but I often forget that I hurt others too. I can’t call someone “Judas” without realizing that I have been a Judas to someone else. Right here. Right now at this prayer altar in my home, I know with certainty that I must go to that person and ask for forgiveness… for mercy. A special teacher explained it well… Mercy bestows blessings that are undeserved and withholds punishment that is deserved. Lord help me to forgive completely and love without restrictions. Help me to live as the woman You have designed and created me to be. I am a godly woman, blessed and highly favored. Not just for this new year,but everyday in the years to come, help me be the daughter that you have called me to be.
    In the Precious Name of Jesus I pray.

  29. 79
    CheriBeri says:

    I was betrayed in a huge way this year. But through that betrayal, God has given me freedom. I just want to quit obsessing over the betrayal. I want to focus on all the wonderful blessings in my life, not the one stupid thing that hurt me.

  30. 80
    Emmie says:

    Lord, I pray for your joy unspeakable to pour out of my life. I know that I can never waste time in your Scripure, but Father, I ask that I find joy searching through Your Word, that You make it the most joyous time of my day! I believe that as You lead me, this joy of Yours will penetrate into every area of my life, and I pray that You teach me–that You mold me into a spunge that will soak up Your love, Your peace, making me into a light to glorify You more. I am Your daughter. I long to be a Daddy’s girl. I’m already Yours, but I pray You will make me solely Yours. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for letting no prayer fall on deaf ears. Thank You for 2011, no matter what it brings. Thank You that You will be with me each step of the way. I love You, Father. Teach me to love You more.
    ~Your Redeemed

  31. 81
    Gena says:

    Lord,
    Give me strength and peace this year to do the things that You call me to do, and not to worry or criticize what others are or are not doing.
    Let Your light shine through me! Praise You, Jesus!
    -G

  32. 82
    Jody from N.C. says:

    I am pinpointing a new or reconfirmed direction/purpose for my life. (I’m turning 40 in a few weeks and scared to death.) My heart’s desire is to be spening my time (life) doing exactly what God desires me to do.

  33. 83
    Sister Lynn says:

    Loving God, teach me to be more loving. Not just loving to those whom I like and enjoy but of those whom irritate me, who bring out the worst in me, who push all my buttons and pinpoint my insecurities. Teach me to see You in them, help me to love supernaturally. Let them teach me to see where I need to turn to you for healing. Open my heart Lord, teach me to love like You.

  34. 84
    Christelle says:

    Oh Lord, my desire is to live forgiven, to love You and those You have entrusted me passionately, and to eat my share of manna from your Word every day – one day at a time.

  35. 85
    Wendy Packard says:

    Im praying for God to help my marriage be stronger, we were separated last year so Im looking forward to a new start

  36. 86
    Siesta OC says:

    My dear wonderful Father in Heaven –

    YOU ARE AWESOME! You have brought such healing and joy to my soul. I am asking please for your continued healing in that I can ignore the enemy and breathe with YOU! The mind you gave me is great and my memory is a blessing, I use to let the enemy train me in thoughts, but YOU, MY GOD and MY FATHER – you have brought healing and shown light and brought knowledge to the fact that, NO these were indeed not my thoughts and I don’t have to go there. I fear so often that the peace will go away, or so that is the newest lie the enemy is attempting. There is NO feeling like the twirling in grace and joy and peace. I feel like there are so many things on the horizon that are so thrilling and such anwers to prayer, I really don’t want to mess it and I really don’t want to caught up in some obvious lie the enemy is attepting to push on me. One of the greatest things I feel is that you, My Abba you have given me this clarity to just say, that is a rediculous lie, I’m not even spending time there. Annd I am so thankful!

    I am so thankful LORD – you have kicked this relationship, this walk into HIGH GEAR!

    Praise you JESUS 4 ever!
    In my savior and best friends name, JESUS
    Amen

  37. 87
    Andrea says:

    Dearest Father,

    Please guide my mouth and my thoughts in 2011 as I embark on this new era of my life. Help me honor my husband as he finishes school. Remind me of the good things you have in store when I am tired from all of the responsibilities on my shoulders. Do not let me grow weary.

    Protect our marriage and bring us through, just as You have so many times.

    I love you.

    Andrea

  38. 88
    rectorswife says:

    My one petition is that I would be brave. Brave enough to do what He has given me to do and not hide behind fear and self-doubt (my life long companions) for one more day.

  39. 89
    Stephanie W says:

    Dear Awesome and Amazing Father,

    Here and now I kneel before you, asking for you to change my heart each moment of the New Year before me. As I piggyback my Siesta Mama’s specific prayer, hear it from my soul straight into your heart. Deliver me from selfishness Father, as I know you have shown me how that ONE THING keeps tripping me up as I let my emotion take over in reaction to what is said, unsaid and all those other innuendo’s I imagine. Father, help me to see myself in the light of your love and react to these situations as a mirror reflecting your love that knows no end. Keep me focused on this one thing, and I praise your victory and give you thanks as you see me through. Your faithfulness causes glorious ripples in my life and the impact is far reaching.
    By faith, this is my request, in the name of Jesus my Savior, Amen.

  40. 90
    Jayne says:

    Lord, I need your help in tearing down the stronghold of negative thinking. I catch myself at it all the time – what a wildly negative imagination I have! Prone to dwell on things that haven’t happened and probably won’t happen, I live in constant defeat. Through Your power, catch me Lord before the thoughts spin out of control and help me to bring them to You. Please shine Your Truth on my thought life. I long to be free.

  41. 91
    Lindsey says:

    Father God,
    I pray that Your grace and mercy would flood my life and empower me to live a life of “radiant health” in 2011! I want to be a woman who honors You in every area, and I know that I need Your strength to overcome this stronghold. Please renew my mindset and transform me as I choose a healthy balance with food and exercise, not another “quick fix.” Help me not to live in excess and indulgence, and not to overdo the exercising or dieting due to shame and guilt. I pray that I would learn to yeild to Your Spirit and stop yeilding to what the selfish part of me wants… that I would think eternally rather than pushing for temporary satisfaction in this area. Lord, You are my security – strengthen me in that truth! I love you, and I’m excited to walk with You through the wilderness this coming year and move toward real freedom. May I never turn back or return to living in bondage, in Jesus Name!
    ~Lindsey

  42. 92
    Kathleen says:

    I pray to live a life of godliness and contentment in 2011. Jesus, help me be thankful for all that you’ve placed in the boundaries of my life and let me be discontented with anything that is not of you.
    In Jesus name, AMEN

  43. 93
    Dawn says:

    Oh Holy Father, when I think of the coming year, I feel a sense of dread that I know comes from the enemy. Starting a new ministry has been the most exhausting yet fulfilling thing I have ever been a part of. I can’t count the battles fought, the victories won, the souls saved and the lives changed and it’s all because of YOU. You are an awesonme God. My prayer is that I would stay focused, focused on your plan, your dream, and your goal for me personally not just for our church. Please bind the enemy, keep him from my mind, and lead me to a place of complete surrender. Help me not to get caught up in the choices of others, but to worry about ME… I want to be as close to you as I can get, I want everything you have for me, and at the end of 2011, may I be saying “Oh What A Savior”… Thank you for never givng up on me !

  44. 94
    Rebecca says:

    Lord, you have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self control. Help me rest in that truth.

  45. 95

    Dear Lord, you know my heart, you know my desires and you are deeply aware of how many times I have begged you for “More” than what I currently have. I realize reading Beth’s thoughts and prayers what a significant root problem is. Maybe it won’t solve all my problems or fix all my issues, but Lord I know you did not create me to be lazy. I have “bragged” about it in the past and almost wear it as a badge of honor. I make so many lists of what to do here, how to get there, things to accomplish, routines to build and on and on; but I never seem to ever do more than one, possibly two, things on any given list before I give up. Lord I don’t know how and I don’t know where, but I confess I cannot fix this myself. I have tried so many times that I’ve lost count. I ask you lord, specifically, for industriousness. That you would give me the routines, habits, abilities and emotional and mental oomph to accomplish something productive and worth sharing every day. I believe that now is definitely the time for a change, now is the time for something new, now is the time for industriousness! I thank you so much Lord for who you are and what you have already done in my life and the lives of all these Siestas here. May our prayers be an encouragement to each other.

  46. 96
    Erin says:

    Dear Lord,
    I long for 2011 to be a big year of change in me. Lord, I long to know you more, to search and listen for you every minute of every day. Help me to search for joy and to be slow to anger. I have begun to notice a family pattern, and Lord I don’t want that!! Fill me with your love, that is patient and kind, so that I can pass it to my husband and children who experience the bad me the most.

    Love your daughter,
    Erin

  47. 97
    Ginny says:

    Daddy,

    Help me to let go of this anger over all the “bad stuff” that has happened to me this year- the most trying of my life. Constantly remind me that you are the ring of fire that surrounds me- nothing comes to me, at me, or with me without you allowing it. Bring to my memory that ALL things work for your good, even when all I want to do (and do!) is lay down and throw a hissy fit. Thank you for the blessings that have come, along with the rain.

  48. 98
    EricaR says:

    Holy Awesome God, lover of my soul, in this 2011 year I pray that you would continue that good work that you began in me nearly 10 years ago. Lord, I want to know you more intimately and just seep your love from my pores as i go forth and live. May I become more like You as I read and memorize your Word. Thank you for your grace and mercy and your unending love. In Jesus most precious name….Amen.

  49. 99
    claire says:

    Dear Lord,

    I ask you to take my mind and make it a new and let me abide in your joy. Help me not to dwell on the guilt, shame and worry of my thoughts. I want to live Isaiah 43:18-19. Help me to accept your love and forgiveness. And help me to love how love really is, I Corinthians 13.

    This is my earnest cry Lord. Show me you are there!

  50. 100

    Dear Lord of My Life,, Help me to trust you, Creator and Sustainer of the universe. I want to give you my fears and anxieties that create a wall between your grace and my heart. I can not give your love freely to myself and others when the walls that I think are protecting me are actually holding me prisoner away from YOU. I give you the key to the door to my heart and ask that you come in and take the fears and anxieties away and replace them with your healing love and grace. Thank you Father. In Your Son’s Name, Amen

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