**UPDATE: We are just so happy to have all of you 20-somethings flock to requesting prayer! Our faithful God surely hears, and cares to His core! If you do not see a specific partner reply to your request, know that the LPM Staff have adopted you. We will pray for each of you, joyfully!
One of my favorite things about Twitter is that we can come to really love someone we wouldn’t have even known to like. Someone from an entirely different part of the country or the planet. Someone from a totally different tradition of our faith. Someone in another generation who serves God in a way that is fresh and exhilarating to us. I have a whole mental list of those and just this morning prayed for a number of young women that I’ve gotten to “know” there on that ridiculous stream of social media that I love. It is a young man that I’ve come to appreciate so much, however, that prompted this post. His name is Jefferson Bethke. I didn’t know anything about him until 6 months ago when Melissa, my youngest daughter, told me she enjoyed following him on Twitter. He is a great communicator God clearly has His hand upon and a poet who creates fantastic thought-provoking videos. I’m glad to have the privilege to tell you about him but that’s not why I’m bringing him up today. A week or so ago on Twitter he mentioned sitting on the airplane, moved with emotion over various testimonies he’d been reading of lives dramatically changed by Jesus Christ. It hit me right then that one of the things I loved best about him is that the young man simply has a pure heart. He just flat-out loves Jesus and loves people. It’s consistent in everything he says and writes. I felt an urgency right that moment to ask God to protect that holy passion and sustain it the length of his days.
And that’s when I thought of all of you in his same generation who really do want to honor God and fulfill the purpose for which He planted your feet on this earth.
Here’s what I want to say to you: you really can maintain a pure and fiery heart toward Christ and His mission on earth but make no mistake: you will not do it by accident.
If you want a pure heart, you better be willing to fight for it. You will not keep it any other way.
The first big relief is that we can’t conjure one up on our own. God alone can create in us a pure heart and renew a right spirit within us. (Psalm 51:10) He alone can set it ablaze with holy passion. But out of God’s sovereign wisdom, He determined that guarding the heart He formed and lit within us would, in many ways, fall to us. We’re to own part of that job.
Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23
Our second huge relief is that we can have a pure heart whether or not we have a pure past. Thank You, Jesus. If not, I and many others would be stuck for a lifetime with dark distorted hearts and deformed desires.
There are many other things more effective voices could tell you about guarding your heart toward Christ, toward people He’s sent you to serve and toward His mission on this planet. Ask them and learn from them. My purpose today is to pitch into the mix a couple of things that I’ve learned – and keep learning – in case any of it resonates with you. I also want to pray for you and call others to do the same. Here goes:
*Your heart will cool off if you do nothing to guard it. Jesus warned us in the 24th chapter of Matthew that “because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.” (V.12) We’re exposed to so much suffering and violence, pain, pretense, and wrongdoing in the world that, even as a defense against feeling so much, we’ll naturally thicken up. I’m certainly not suggesting we be less informed. Uninformed Christians can be a waste of light in the darkness. What I’m suggesting is that, if you want to keep a warm, feeling heart, you better be prepared to fight like mad for it.
*Over time, you can get really cynical. For one thing, cynicism can be really funny so we get drawn to it. It also tends to be cooler. You have to be willing to be one of those that the cynics could make fun of.
*You have to realize that guarding your heart means guarding its willingness to love and be exposed out there where it can get wronged or wounded. A couple of years ago I was researching God’s self-disclosure in Exodus 34:5-7 and stumbled onto something that totally changed the way I looked at guarding my heart. Here’s the segment so you can see it for yourself:
5 Then the LORD came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the LORD. 6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, 7 maintaining love…
See that word “maintaining”? It is a form of the same Hebrew term used in Proverbs 4:23 for “guarding” our hearts. In other words, a huge part of guarding my heart is maintaining love. It was a total game changer for me because somehow I had associated guarding my heart with keeping it sheltered. Try to fathom that God actively maintains His love toward us. He guards it. Using that same concept, He calls us to maintain our love toward other people. If I want to stay in love with my husband, for instance, I better actively practice maintaining it because, left to its nature, it will grow cold.
One of the things that God keeps teaching me to do is pray with everything in me and on an ongoing basis to love Jesus more than anything I can see or touch in this human realm. He promises in Scripture to grant us everything we pray in His will and in His name. (1 John 5:14-15) Since His greatest command was that we love (Mark 12:30-31), you can pray for it with absolute confidence that He’s going to do it. In fact, every time you ask God for it, go ahead and thank Him in advance that He’s going to accomplish it. He will. Then when He starts doing it, you start guarding it with all your might.
Ask Him continually to stir fire in your bones for His Word and for His mission. Ask Him to sustain it in you and teach you how to guard it through every inch of your lifespan. Only put up with a sense of spiritual flatness for a matter of days. That’s completely normal. But when it begins to turn into weeks, go face-down on that floor and ask God to give you insight into what seems off and to revive your heart. Don’t just accept coldness. Fight for love.
What is it you want from God? Pray for it feverishly! “Pursue love and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts.” That’s what 1 Corinthians 14:1 says.
Also ask others to pray these things over you. That’s what I am hoping this blog post will be about today.
Here’s what I’m asking all of you to do if you’re willing:
*Those of you in your 20’s, tell us at least your first name, where you’re from, and a little bit about you in a comment so that we can personalize our intercessions for you.
*The rest of you choose one of them to pray for (or two, if you have the time), let them know in a reply under their comment that you are adopting them for intercession for the next 14 days. Tell them where you’re from as well. I think they’ll like knowing that, too. As long as every 20-something gets signed-up for, it doesn’t matter if a number of you are praying for the same individual. If they’re like us, they’d be ecstatic to have the extra prayer covering. Pray as you feel led by God but, within that intercession, pray particularly for God to stir up and sustain a holy passion in them for Himself, His mission, and for people on this planet, and that they will be alert and proactive in guarding their hearts to last a lifetime. Ask God forthrightly to deliver them from any area of bondage, strengthen them in temptation, and deliver them from evil. Love them with all your might through prayer.
Let’s partner with this generation and intercede powerfully for them. They are the rising future of the church of Jesus Christ at this tumultuous time on the Kingdom calendar. Let’s pray them out there.
Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 ESV
PS. To our regular blog community: I put this in a comment but I’m afraid many of you may not see it.
I am grateful beyond expression for your participation on this post. Please move at the same pace that you see our 20-somethings sign up. In other words, if at our first moderation there are 15 of them, see that all 15 are spoken for then, instead of doubling and tripling up on the same small group, watch for others to be posted and claim those. Assume in about 48 hours that we’ll probably have around 80% of the 20-somethings that will end up participating. Still, check every couple of days for about a week to make sure everybody gets covered if you don’t mind. Sisters, this woman right here KNOWS how powerfully you pray. I’ve seen it. I’ve felt it. You are solid gold in the Kingdom of God! Pray for these young people like you’d want somebody to pray for your own children, whether or not you have any. Take them on as blood. Pray with faith and holy fire. Pray like the near future of the church depends on Jesus revealing Himself through them. They are so worth it. JESUS is so worth it.
I love you guys madly.
Beth
Hi! 20-something here. My name is Shannon, I’m from the Dallas area. I’m currently a senior in college getting ready to graduate in a couple weeks – yikes! I literally have NO idea where my life is going. I’m waiting to hear back from a grad school I applied to, but other than that I don’t have any plans.
I’m kind of just in a state of waiting to see what God has in store for me. If I don’t get into grad school, that would be fine if it’s God’s plan, but I’m just at a loss as to where to start the next phase of my life. I love photography and videography, and would eventually love to work in that area, filming people’s weddings, using that gift for ministry in some way, etc. I’m praying that God will begin to open up opportunities in those areas as well and show me where to start.
Also praying for boldness if/when opportunities do open up, I often deal with feelings of inadequacy which keeps me from doing things I would love to do.
Love this post, also praying that I am able to keep working to keep that fire growing – I don’t want to fizzle out after I graduate and leave the Christian support system I have here.
Thanks so much for anyone’s prayers! 🙂
Shannon,
My name is Pam and I live in western North Carolina. I am going to be praying for the Lord to give you clear guidance on where you go after graduation. Just listen to that “still, small voice”. I will also be praying fervently for God to continue to keep your heart on fire for Him.
Don’t let your feelings of inadequacy keep you from doing things God is leading you to do. He will equip you for the task at hand.
Honored to pray for you,
A fellow believer
Hi, Melanie here, a 35 yr old mom of 4, who would be honored to pray for you, Shannon! God has a path and purpose for you that He planned from the beginning! I pray He will give you eyes to see the equipping He is providing you. Blessings to you as you wrap up grad school. Know that I will be lifting you up before the Father daily! (Thanks, Beth, for this blessing!)
Shannon, I pray God clearly reveals His plan for you. Either way, follow Him. Love Him. Praying for you to feel His loving guidance in your life. I’ll be praying for you.
Hi Shannon!
My name is Carly and I will pray for you!
I live in Calgary Alberta in Canada and am a wedding and women’s photographer!
If you’re interested you can reach me at [email protected]
Hi Shannon,
I will be praying for you, and congratulations on finishing College and on entering Grad school!!! I just want to leave this scripture with you from The Message bible to comfort you and help you rest in God. Know that God got you, and I am praying my sister even now 🙂
Jeremiah 29:11 (The Message Bible) – I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.
Be Blessed,
Jana
I’m Jessica Pomerenke, currently living in Sioux Falls, SD! I am a high school teacher by day, a YoungLife (a non profit ministry that works with high schoolers weekly via clubs, Bible studies, and one-on-ones) ministry leader by night, and a 25 year old who yearns to hear and listen to the Lord’s voice. I would love prayer in any aspect-but particularly to not lose heart in the passion and hope for those high schoolers I teach and the many high school girls I meet with weekly for coffee and Bible study! Thank you SO very much!
Hi Jessica, I just wanted to let you know that I will be praying for you not to lose your passion! And, coincidentally, I happen to live right next door to your sister, Julie. What a small world!
thank you SO much Samantha! My sister? What? How awesome is that!?!? In Iowa??? 🙂
Will be praying for you and for all the young women. May Gods grace and strength pull you through. God bless. You will be in my prayers daily
Julie-thank you so much!! I am truly blessed by your willingness and desire to pray over me!
Jessica! I am Jill, I live in Oregon. I LOVE Young Life. You are doing a great work in young lives. I will absolutely pray for you for 14 days.
Jill! I love that you LOVE YL! Such a cool ministry and that we can connect across the nation! Thank you SO much for praying! Are you involved in YL too?!? So sweet!
Beth–thank you so much for this post, what a blessing to read this at my desk this afternoon.
My name is Kerry and I am a 23 year old in Massachusetts serving as the director of youth ministry in a congregation of about 250 people. My husband and I both graduated school in May 2012 and were married in September 2012. I would love to pass along a specific prayer request.
In December of 2010 I was involved in a car accident, and two months later was accidentally hit in the head at a youth group outing. Both of these events resulted in concussions and I was eventually diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome and damage to my occipital nerve. Two years out I am still suffering from daily migraines, which often can make my work difficult. Please pray for a wisdom for my neurologists and doctors, relief from my symptoms, and continued strength for my husband–who has been such a blessing through these past two years! Fully trusting that the Lord is with me in every step of this walk & that He is always faithful, but it can still get discouraging in the day to day.
Thankful for this community!
Hi – I’m from Virginia
I will pray for you for 14-days!
Hi Kerry –
I will be praying for you. I also live in MA. (Reading) which is why I grabbed yours. Know that I will be praying for God to bring healing, wisdom for your drs., & strength for your husband. May God show up & be mighty in & through this situation!
Blessings,
Joanne
Kerry, having walked through chronic pain myself, I totally understand your struggles. I will be seeking the Lord on your behalf, praying for healing and restoration. I will also be praying for the Lord’s hand to rest mightily on your ministry to young people. I’m so excited to get to pray for you. What a privilege! Thank you, Beth…this is so important!!
Brittany, 29 years old, singer/songwriter in Nashville, TN. I’m at the crossroads of an exciting moment in my career & ministry…but also overwhelmed and feeling spiritually attacked. Please pray that God would show up and show off in my life, relationships, ministry, provision, etc. I need prayers also for encouragement, perseverance and the faith required to be obedient and joyful amid a lot of unknowns.
Brittney, I am Candace and I am over in East TN praying for you!! I am a fellow musician, so that is why your post jumped out at me! (Though I am not a professional, just serving Jesus in my local church and worship ministry.) I am praying that God would encourage your heart this week in a more tangible way…that he would grant you perseverance and faith to walk this path he has you on!!
Brittany,
I would love to pray for you! I also live in TN, in Murfreesboro 🙂 not far from you at all!
I pray that God will give you His clarity, wisdom, and discernment during this time in your life. Things that are exciting can also be scary and overwhelming at the same time. I pray that you will feel God’s peace. I pray that He will reveal himself to you in ways that you have never known before! Be encouraged and know that as long as you stay focused on our God, He will continue to lead you down the path He has chosen for you and give you all the strength, faith, and skills you need for every situation He brings you to. When you feel you are under attack just cry out to Him and know that He’s got this!
I will pray for you every day!
Hey there, my name is Kayla Hall, I am 24 years old, and I currently live Kansas City, KS., but am originally from Junction City, AR. My husband and I were youth pastor from 2010 – 2012, and are now the new young adults leaders at our church in Lenexa. We both desire to do incredible things for Jesus Christ, we have a burning passion that God wants to use us to impact our generation and this world for His Kingdom. I am currantly a receptionist at a company here, and my husband works for his uncles company as a termite technician. No children yet, just a 4 legged white dog named Bentley. 🙂
Kayla, it will be my pleasure to pray for you, and your husband, too. I see so many young people and young married people who have no desire to serve. In fact, most do not even attend church.
I am a fellow Kansan, and will considerate it a pleasure to pray for your ministry and future endeavors.
Thank you, Kathy
Kayla, Your hometown, Junction City, jumped out at me.
That is where I have lived for 40 years. It is an honor to pray for you and your husband as you serve our Lord with such love and faith. May His wisdom direct you and His love and grace cover you as doors open in your life to share your passion for Jesus. Praying for you daily and believing for great things to come. “Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart.” Psalm 119:2 NKJ
My name is Kathy Strauch. I’m 22 years old from Livonia, Michigan. I just graduated college, and I am in the last month of my graphic design internship. There are not many jobs in the area, so I am not sure as to what is going to happen in the coming months. It would be so encouraging if someone would pray for me, that the Lord would guide my decisions and lead me where He wants me to go. Thank you!
Hi Kathy. I live in Livonia! I would be honored to pray for you.
Hi my name is Katherine. I’m 23 years old and through college God worked on my heart to become a coach. I had planned on graphic design but His plans were different. I am so much happier in this career field but right now I’m also having to work at a restaurant to pay the bills. I ask for prayers that my coaching can become full time so I can give more time to my kids and so I don’t have to juggle two jobs.
Thank you.
Hi Katherine,
I live in Coeur d Alene, Idaho and will be glad to pray for you. I’m a retired high school teacher and and grandmother who cares very much about your generation. I will be praying for you!
My name is Miriam Rainwater, I’m 22, and today I began the process of raising support in order to go fulfill the calling the Lord has placed on my life to be a campus minister at Portland State University in Oregon in September. Please pray that He will provide in an immeasurably more kind of way by raising up the individuals and churches who He wants to support me monthly, that He will teach me many things through the process that I need to know as I plan to move across the country to serve Him alone (I’m from GA), and that He will start preparing the students at Portland State to receive the gospel’s Truth! Thank you!
Miriam,
Praying that the LORD sends you more than enough support and many students ready to hear the gospel Truth.
Love in Christ,
Mimi G
Dear Miriam,
I will pray for you! I am from Idaho, but have lived in Oregon and am very familiar with Portland. My son-in-law graduated from Portland State. I’m 66-year-old and a retired schoolteacher… Grandmother of 7. All born in Portland 🙂 You are on my heart today!
My name is Kaley, and I am a 21 year old soon-to-be grad from the University of Tennessee Knoxville with a degree in Child and Family Studies. Also, a soon-to-be wife shortly after I graduate!
After my wedding day I plan to start seminary classes in the Fall online through Southern Seminary to pursue my Masters of Divinity in Church Ministry. I have a heart for the local church and discipleship of its members in particular. I have previously served as a high school ministry intern and developed a passion for teaching there, but I don’t know where God is leading me in that. I’m just following Him one step at a time. I am so grateful for your prayers! As a women who desires to serve Christ through church ministry, I have no idea what to do or how to get there. Pray for clarity and opportunity.
Hello! My name is Kaila and I am a 21 year old college student in Georgia! I am currently studying to become an elementary school teacher and couldn’t be more excited to figure out how the Lord is going to use me through teaching. I am one of 7 siblings and have a brother who just recently beat cancer!!! I am going to Swaziland, Africa at the end of May with a local church and could definitely use some prayer for our team and as well as the people we will come in to contact with in Swaziland. Satan is already trying to discourage us all. Recently a team member has been diagnosed with cancer, another’s father has been put in the ICU, and I just lost my job. I know that the Lord is sovereign through all things, but my deepest prayer is that we can still find joy in times of trial.
My heart overflows with delight that you would take the time to invest in my generation by praying for us. I sometimes feel as if our generation is looked down upon and this opportunity is very encouraging for us to not allow that to get us down. My mentors of about 6 years recently moved to Sudan/Uganda, Africa after being called to be full time missionaries to the Karamojong people. It has been hard not having that constant accountability and a person to run to for advice whenever needed, but has taught me great things. I can not thank you enough for taking time out of your own busy schedule to pray for my generation. This is a true example of God’s people becoming one body and working together for the glorification of Him!
Thank you greatly!
Kaila, Praying for direction as you finish your education in elementary ed. I am a retired teacher and love to see Christian young people going into teaching. Our public schools, especially, need Godly men and women teaching our children. I will also pray for you and your mission team as you minister in Swaziland. May God bless.
Love in Christ, Mimi G
Dear Kaila,
I will be praying for you!! I have two sons not much older than you. My youngest is going to school to become an elementary school teacher also! My oldest is a youth minister. I have a 19 month old grandson and it gives me hope for his generation to see so many of your generation on fire for God!!!
Please know that you, your family and your church team will be in my prayers!
Your Sister in Christ,
Bobbi
Hi Kaila!! My nama is Mary and I live in Southwest Oklahoma. I am a retired social worker. My husband and I (married 38 years) have 2 grown children and a grandson. I am honored to pray for you for the next several weeks. I will also be praying for your upcoming trip to Africa in May. I have been on 5 short term trips to Africa over the last 12 years, and I can tell you the struggles of your team prior to your trip are typical of ALL trips I have been on. It is Satan’s way of discouraging you. BUT, just stay focused and KNOW God has something super special for you. You have so much potential and such an exciting life awaiting you!! I am praying God will bless you and you will draw near to Him like never before.
Hello!
My name is Kara and I am 28 year old from Puyallup, WA (near Tacoma). I am currently raising a four year old boy and an one year baby girl! About three years ago the Lord revealed to me that He was calling me into women’s ministry. Honestly, when I first was shown this I did not believe it and kept right on with my life as usual. However, God kept placing things in my path that kept reconfirming His calling on my life. For the past year and half I have been writing and helping lead women’s ministry at our church.
I am currently working on my first bible study on the book of Galatians. Please pray that my words would not be my own but that I would allow the Lord to lead me as I write. I want nothing more than for women to know Jesus – to be so immensely in love with Him that impacts all they do.
To be honest, writing has been hard lately. I keep questioning myself – thinking, “what am I doing?” It really makes no sense. I sort of feel like Gideon – being from the smallest town in the weakest family. 🙂 Please pray that my confidence would be rooted in Him – this is not my dream, this is His dream.
Finally, (sorry this has gotten so long winded-I struggle to keep things short :)) please pray that wherever the Lord leads me, whatever He does in my life that I would always always give Him the glory. That I would never take any of it for myself. I have been praying this scripture verse over myself for some time now – Galatians 1:24 And they praised God because of me. I want people to see the work that He has done in my life and know that it was HIM ALONE – that I worked nothing out in my own strength. I spent the first 23 years of my life in such a pit – creating one filthy mess after another. I do not ever want to live like that again. But mostly, I want other women to know what He did for me He can do for them. He is mighty mighty God – who loved me before I ever knew Him. He searched me out – he pulled me out of my mess and redeemed my life. I cannot stop until others know the same God who saved me – will save them too!
Thank you so much for praying for me. It means more to me than words can express!
Blessings,
Kara
Hi Kara! I live in Tacoma! I will definitely be praying for you, for all the things you mentioned!!
Hi y’all, I’m Katherine!
I live in Atlanta, Georgia, and am currently in my second year at Kennesaw State. I will be transferring for Interior Design to a local college near Kennesaw in the Fall. It’s a huge dream I’m going after! The Lord has made me a vibrant, visionary, dream filled girl with eyes that see beauty in the simplest of things. The past two years of college have been the absolute desolate spiritually. I’ve been so dry. I haven’t felt community & I don’t have a home church. Please pray for a blessing of friendships, a sense of home, to have passion again, & that I would be a woman of God who’s life is SO abundant, joyful, and full. Much love!!
Hi Katherine,
I am Texas girl that God took to KS few years ago. I am a designer, too! I have 4 kids 15-25, and have been in ministry almost 30 yrs. Such a joy to pray for you and all that God has in store for you, sweet girl!! May He flame a passionate fire in your heart and bring those into your life that He knows you need, including a church community you can be part of. You keep your eyes on Jesus and follow your dream. I know He has more planned for you than you can even imagine. And I will be be praying! xo rene
Hi my name is Joni! I’m from the southern part of West Virginia I am bout to graduate medical school in a month where I’ll then begin a family practice residency. I also lead a young women’s bible study & am a lay counselor for a crisis pregnancy center.. I’d so much appreciate your prayers as I begin this new season of being a doctor I want so much to touch lives for the Kingdom & bring Him glory. Also for the ministry I have with young women and for all my future decisions & relationships etc
I thank you so so so much for your prayers 🙂
Joni,
I am Kristi Hensley, a family doctor in South Charleston, WV. I will be praying for God to use you in a mighty way! We have the ability to minister to people on a daily basis as physicians. May God bless you abundantly and use you to reach many people.
Thank you so much Dr.Hensley! I appreciate it more than I can express
Will pray for you also!
HI! My name is Anna. I’m 25 years old, and I am from Kilgore, TX. I have an absolutely wonderful husband and two of the sweetest, rowdiest boys there are (2 yrs old and 10 months old). I am finishing up my third year of teaching 6th grade. I have felt a call to ministry ever since I was 16 years old. God has been so gracious to show me that that call may not look exactly like I thought it would, but that His plan is better than mine. Two things I am longing for are a job that allows me to be with my boys more and more opportunities to serve in ministry and use the gifts that God has given me. What a wonderful post. Thank you so much for praying!
Hi Anna! My name is Tammy and it would be my honor to pray for you! I am 47 and a native Texan who currently lives in North Carolina with my husband and two boys. I can so relate to how you are feeling as I felt the same way many years ago when my boys were little. So often I found it difficult to manage being a wife, a mom, and an employee and to do them all well. I will pray for your wisdom and descernment as you seek the Lord in all areas of your life. 🙂
I’m Martha, and I’m 25 from a teeny-tiny town in Southern Indiana. I was blessed beyond WORDS when I received a scholarship from Beth & LPM to attend Passion 2013 and it ROCKED MY WORLD in the best way possible!
I’ve lived with my parents since graduating college in 2010, and have constantly struggled to be at peace with that lot in life. I’ve been active in ministry at my Church, but it wasn’t until Passion that I really embraced the position God has placed me in and the blessings I am able to witness every week! I lead worship for traditional and contemporary services on Sunday, and teach children’s church during the contemporary service. I also work with our weeknight kid’s programming where we do outreach and provide a meal to 50-60 kids.
I’m not trying to brag… just set the stage. With all that said, I used to perform all these tasks with resentment and without that fire in my bones Beth mentioned. It wasn’t until January and Passion that I realized how much I have to be thankful to HIM for and the life of worship I should be leaving. Would you pray with me to not lose that fire, and to keep being a woman of humble courage, competent in the Holy Spirit, and passionate for His word?
Finally, I’ve really felt God calling me to either join or lead a study for 20-something women. Would you pray for me to hear His voice in that area, too?
Thank you so much! What a blessing!
Hi Martha….I`m Carol from Ontario, Canada. I prayed for a Martha during Passion. I wonder if you`re the same one!!!!
I will be praying for you, that you`ll know His will and to no lose the fire.
Carol! How AWESOME would it be if I were the same one 🙂 If you were, those prayers were heard and answered abundantly! 🙂 I’ll be praying for you too, sister!
Hey Martha if you want to connect, you can find me on Twitter: @CarolHulin
Hi, I’m Hannah – 24 years old and living in Southern Indiana. I work as an account executive for a manufacturing company, and I’m married to a worship leader. I’m passionate about building into our youth + my peers and raising up the next generation of leaders!
Hannah,
Praying for you and your husband as you minister to our next generation of leaders.
Love in Christ,
Mimi G
My name is Bonnie and I turn 21 in early May. I am graduating from Texas A&M University and I feel led to serve abroad for the summer. Please be praying for clarity on where to serve and for peace about wherever I go for myself and my parents.
Thank you so much!
Bonnie, Praying for direction of where to serve this summer and peace for you and your parents.
Love in Christ,
Mimi G
My name is Briana, I’m 20 years old and I live in Greenville, SC. I’m currently attending school at my local Worlwide campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. I firmly believe that God put a calling in my heart to serve in the military as a pilot. I am waiting to enter the military until I have completed my degree, but in the mean time, I decided to go ahead and get my private pilot certificate. It’s every bit exciting and fulfilling as you can imagine! However, it’s also a very scary thing and I struggle with my calling a lot because of that. I would love prayers that God would renew my passion and fire for Him and for the guidance I desperately need to move forward with my career.
Thank you!
Briana:
I live in Charleston, SC which is not far from Greenville. Please know that you are in our prayers.
Your sister in Christ,
Karen Norman
Thank you, Karen! 🙂
My name is Alyssa and I’m from Indiana. I’m 24 and work at a church in the student ministry and feel very blessed to be surrounded by people day in and day out that love the Lord. However, I have always felt called to help those in desperate situations and have applied and been accepted to grad school in North Carolina for mental health counseling. I have been struggling with doubts as to whether or not I should pursue this or stay at the amazing job I have. I feel like there is something more I should be doing and I simply want to follow God with all I am and go wherever he leads but don’t feel like I have received a clear word. In addition to this I have been struggling with being single and feeling left out because I am not married. I’m haven’t been interested in guys who have pursed me and those I have been interested in haven’t pursued me or have eventually left me. I need to remember that God is in control and his Love is all I need!
Alyssa,
Praying for direction from God on making these changes in your life. Also, praying you’ll be happy with your life until God brings the right guy your way.
Love in Christ,
Mimi G
Sisters in our blog community, I am grateful beyond expression for your participation on this post. Please move at the same pace that you see our 20-somethings sign up. In other words, if at our first moderation there are 15 of them, see that all 15 are spoken for then, instead of doubling and tripling up on the same small group, watch for others to be posted and claim those. Assume in about 48 hours that we’ll probably have around 80% of the 20-somethings that will end up participating. Still, check every couple of days for about a week to make sure everybody gets covered if you don’t mind. Sisters, this woman right here KNOWS how powerfully you pray. I’ve seen it. I’ve felt it. You are solid gold in the Kingdom of God! Pray for these young people like you’d want somebody to pray for your own children, whether or not you have any. Take them on as blood. Pray with faith and holy fire. Pray like the near future of the church depends on Jesus revealing Himself through them. They are so worth it. JESUS is so worth it.
I love you guys madly.
Beth,
You are dear to my heart. So many ways I want to thank you for loving the Lord, and through that, loving me. I love you, sweet woman of God! This blog post comes in a timely manner, as God’s been laying this generation on my heart. I just turned 36 and feel like I am still in my 20s searching and figuring out my place. Thank you for pushing us to earn for His love and to let our hearts grow with passion for Him more and more.
Hi! I’m Anna, and I’m 22 years old. I graduate in a week from the University of Alabama. I’ve lived in Alabama my whole life, and I’m moving to Kansas City, MO in June to start my first full-time job.
I will know virtually no one, and while I’m excited about the next chapter of my life and believe it is what God has for me, I’m nervous about transitioning to the working world, finding a new church home, and building a circle of people I can trust and lean on. Please pray over these things, and that I will find a community and a specific place to be used for His glory.
Barb from Wetumpka, AL will be praying for you!
Thank you Barb! 🙂
Jon from Mississippi. My heart is gone cold and completely hardened. I know God has a big plan for my life but it is a struggle each day for me to see him and to seek his face. My relationship with Jesus has faded due to the sin and my life and me trying to live life the way I want even though that’s not the way I live. Most of the time I try to live a double life and try to live for Jesus and myself. I just want to be on fire for Jesus again and free from bondage so that I can reach out to people and just be a light and be outgoing the way I use to be, I’ve just been so broken for so long. I want to be able to build relationships with other people and start a lifestyle that was different from my parents who both were alcoholics so that I can break the chain of dysfunction and build a better future seeking HIS face.I also pray that when God purifies and renews my heart that I will protect it with everything I have.
Jon,
I just want to encourage you to keep on living for the Lord. You may feel life is too hard and full of problems, but God has a better plan for your life. He will be right there with you and never forsake you. He will work things out for good and He will give you the strength to follow Him, if you will only trust Him. God is faithful and reliable. HE IS ENOUGH! He is your security, your acceptance, and the love you need. You are precious to Him. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. God can restore you, He can forgive you, and His arms are open wide to accept you. His way leads to Victory.
You cannot break the chain without God’s help.
He wants you back. He wants to give you the love you are needing. You are His child. Do not fear and be strong. Come and He will take care of you. I know it may have been so long, since you felt His presence and felt Him embrace you, but He is saying to you, “I want you back”, while Never looking back!”
Maybe you never considered who you are or what God wanted. You may never have considered the sin or the consequences and you may feel so ashamed and unhappy, but once again the Lord is reaching out to you and telling you, “I want you, I love you!”
You may feel, but Lord I am nothing. I am broken. But You cannot make it another day. Bow down on your knees
And cry out to the Lord who is full of mercy and love.
Tell Him to forgive you of your sin and selfish ways. And like a little child come back to Him. You will feel His love and peace overflowing. He will mend your heart and give you hope. He will set you free and fill you life with joy. For He is your Lord and Savior. He is your treasure! in Christ (use to be a Mississippi girl, now a Oklahoma girl) <3
Hi! My name is Courtney. I am a college senior who is grappling with a lot of spiritual complacency, especially in my attitude towards lust and my perception of God. I know this is dumb and I feel dumb for feeling this way, but my desire to be loved by a guy (I’ve never dated) is greater than my desire to grown in not only understanding but also reveling in the love of Christ. It’s really affecting how I view everything, and lustful thoughts are really becoming a huge issue. It’s something I’ve brought to Christ often (it’s been a struggle that’s recently gotten much worse) and I feel as though I’ll never overcome both my sin and my longing, and I’m really struggling. This post was a Godsend, very convicting and encouraging, and your prayers are so valued.
Thank you!
Hi Courtney!
My name is Adrienne, I’m 24 and I’m from Montreal, Quebec (Canada). I so admire your honesty and sincerity and I will be praying for you!
If I could share a verse with you that I will also be praying for: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33)
You are so precious in God’s eyes that He desires only good for you
… if I could share something personal with you: I sought love in relationships before ever considering a life with Christ and therefore before understanding what real love was, and I suffered greatly for that. Know that you are being prayed for as a sister in Christ 🙂
Wow, this is beautiful… I read the first few and got teary-eyed. Thank you so much, Beth, for doing this. I’m praying for you all. I think more young people are reading this, but I’m in my 30’s and so needed to as well – incredibly timely! What Beth’s saying is so vital. Rebecca – I identify a lot with what you’re saying. Let Jesus heal those wounds and fear. We’re alive w/ Christ and his resurrection, our past is dead with him. I have to meditate on that often. Prov 3:5-6 helps me so much with issues like job choices, etc. Much love and prayers.
Liz; Bloomfield, IN. I’m a pastor’s wife in a small town who loves supporting her husband and encouraging the body of Christ. For the first time, I’m teaching an in depth Bible study this summer that I’ve written. I’d appreciate prayers for that first and foremost. I’d also love prayers that God would secure me in His Truth and His Love and that like Beth’s post, I’d have a heart that’s willing to maintain love for others.
Hey Liz! My name is Suzie and I am a pastor’s wife too! I would be honored to pray for you. I lead a Bible study for a group of multi-generation ladies.
I live in Wenona, Maryland. It’s in the Chesapeake Bay on Maryland’s eastern shore.
I cannot wait to what God has in store for you!
Thank you so much, Suzie! I am grateful and humbled to receive your prayers. Please be assured that I will also be praying for you and your ministry.
Hi everyone. My name is Danielle, and I’m originally from Missouri, but I live in East Texas now. I’m a young attorney, but my last position just ended a week ago, and I’m not currently employed. And I’m scared. Everyone tells me not to be, but as much as I believe work doesn’t define my identity, it’s difficult not to fear as I figure out the next step. Many of us in our 20s struggling with issues of identity, and I’m asking for prayers that mine would be firmly rooted in Christ.
Leanne
Mississippi
31 years old
I will be praying for you Danielle.
Hi Danielle! My name is Holly…I am committing to pray for you! I know those feelings of fear and not really understanding in my 20’s who I really was. I am 50 now and so grateful that The Lord has never given up on my me and has me in the palm of His hand. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you! Praying that you will sit with Him spend time in His presence and listen ..He will pour out His Spirit on you …guide your steps and fill you with peace and immeasurable joy!
I’m Abby, 26, and currently in Ukraine until the end of the week. I have been on a year long mission trip around the world but will be leaving at the end of this week which is 3 months early. I will be spending 3 months at home (Indiana) and then will be returning to China to teach at a Christian organization I formally taught at. Prayers in this time of transition for smooth adjustment and understanding are so appreciated!
My name is Lindsay. I am from Mobile, Al. I am 23 and getting married in less than 3 weeks!!! I just graduated from college in December. I am a radiation therapist (deliver radiation for cancer treatments). I am currently on the job hunt. I got a call today for an interview. I know this is what I have been called to do. This is my passion. I love being able to help and talk to my patients everyday. I am hoping and praying that I get to start my career in this field very soon. I need all of the prayers I can get. It is stressful knowing we are getting married and I don’t have a job yet. Also, my almost husband is in the process of applying to nursing school. Prayers are greatly appreciated. Our future is so uncertain at this point, but we know God has a plan for us. We are trusting him with our future together.
Kaitlyn
Macon, GA
Recent college graduate. Working as an assistant to a pastor. Single. 🙂 This could not have been more perfect timing. Loving others intentionally in an unloving world has been on my heart lately. Learning how God can use me where I am, and taking steps of faith in sharing this love with my community.
Hi, I’m Matt and reside in PA where I teach. I’m 29 and I’m going through a really tough time adjusting to a single life after a LONG relationship ended painfully and has left me in great daily affliction. I can’t comprehend any of the events that occurred before or after the breakup, but God is allowing it to happen. However, the amazing part is how I’m growing in this time of affliction and learning to understand Gods daily provision of strength…to know His love never fails…and He will never leave us. I’m at rock bottom and He is the only thing that sustains me and I can only trust in His plans. My time with God has never been so precious and I’ve never been so desperate of Him. May God build and restore me so that He may be glorified…may joy surface again and overflow!
I’m a 28 year old new mom to our 9 week old son. I’ve been married almost 9 years. Would appreciate any prayers for my husband and I as we learn how to parent our sweet boy. Finding time for each other, our selves and growing as a family. That we’d have the strength and patience we need and the joy in the midst of it all. Loving this new chapter of life! Thanks!!
Hi there, dear Sisters!
I’m Ema, a 23-year-old hailing from Kentucky. I work in the medical profession and am getting married in July (!!!). My daily prayer is that our Father would humble me, teach me how to love more and more like Himself, and prepare me to be a blessing as a helper. THANK you for your commitment!! How sweet you are.
Hi! I’m Carrie, 24 and I’m from Connecticut. I graduated in August and have no idea what God wants me to do. I thought to be a sonographer, rn, counselor, musician, etc. I’m super frustrated because of this and it is very, very hard to find a community of God-fearing community of 20 something’s up here. Please pray. I’m struggling to seek, hear and enjoy Christ and His presence. Ps I have one single friend and no ambitions to marry anytime soon…… good times! 😉
I don’t want to miss what Jesus has for me ….ever.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Hi, I thought I had replied, but don’t see it. I am Carrie too, and from RI. I know how spiritually isolating. New England can be. I am also a teacher. I will be praying for you! Be encouraged.
I’m Hannah, from Kentucky. I’m currently working in campus ministry at a mid-size university. I love working with international students on our campus and am praying that God provides funding for my position to continue through the next year.
I am a sophomore in college, still struggling with many of the same problems I face in high school. I don’t feel that I’ve been broken for the gospel in years. I am hurting badly for a mentor and for a true desire to commit my life to the Lord as His disciple. I want to desire Him more than anything, yet I feel so apathetic.
My name is Katie; I live in Atlanta. I’m a part-time nanny, part-time stay-at-home-wife and so, so grateful to be. I lead college girls at Georgia Tech and write/blog for the Bride of Christ. Please pray for the grace for my husband & me to die to self daily, to pour out what Christ has filled in us as we serve college students & prepare to obey wherever Jesus calls us. Love and gratitude to you!
Hi Katie! Thank you for serving girls at the college level! My husband graduated from Georgia Tech, so we love the school! I will be thinking and praying for you and your husband that you will continue to take up your cross daily and be prepared for whatever He calls you all to.
my name is nancy-page, i am 25, living in houston, and working for a school system in an operations position, and i do what i really love (design and calligraphy) from 6-11pm 🙂 . i find myself discouraged more than i would like to be about my job, and i don’t want that to be the case. i would covet prayers for a continual stirring of my heart for God’s mission, that i would love Jesus more than anything, and that i would pursue my passions diligently and wholeheartedly, in a way that glorifies God. thank you, thank you for the prayers. my heart is already rejoicing at the thought of intercession.
I’m Daniel, 26, from Nashville– I stumbled across this in my fiancée’s Twitter feed. I’ve been laid off from two jobs in six months and it’s leading me towards that same cynicism that Beth mentions above. This last job felt like such a blessing from God and then to have it disappear six weeks after I was hired left me with a lot of questions and doubts.
Please pray for an encouraged heart that will continue to push through this discouraging trial and continue to lead and love my future-wife. Also, for a new job with a successful company that provides a positive environment that stretches me and allows room for growth (ideally before our wedding in June!)
Hi, I’m Alysha. About to be a senior at Georgia Tech. I play softball there and I believe God has me on this team with these girls for a reason. Pray that my passion for God would increase, that his passion for others would be mine and that I would be bold enough to show that love to others.
Alysha,
My name is Karen Greer and I am a pastors wife in Duluth, GA. My husband went to GA Tech! I want you to know I am thinking about you and praying foryou! May God reveal his passion and love for others through you and your service to Him.
Hi Alysha!
I’m a 2009 Tech graduate and still involved in ministry on campus with a group of girls. Praying for you as you finish strong this year and so grateful for the Lord’s placement of light in every aspect of campus life. He has great things in store for Georgia Tech–grateful to be partnered with you, sister!
My name is LaDonna. I am 24 years old and I live in Hammond, Louisiana. I’m a stay at home mom of two beautiful children and my husband and I have been married almost 5 years. Our church has had a rough two years. Starting with the youth minister, then children’s minister, then pastor they all resigned within six months of each other. We then as a church hired the first youth minister we found which only lasted six months and that was in November. So my husband who serves the church as a deacon used to be a full time minister; felt like God wanted us to step up and fill in. So we have. It wasnt easy at first but God is faithful. He has given us the grace we’ve needed to get through the past five months. Our church on the other hand that use to run 700 on Sunday mornings is now running 150-200s. I believe God has great things in store for us and this is His way of pruning but we need revival and thats excalty what we are in the middle of this week! So my prayer request is that you pray for my church! Pray for unity, passion, love, REVIVAL and the desire to reach our community. This blog couldnt have a more perfect timing! Because my mother is not present in my life and I so desperatly long to have that female confidant. I dont have anyone I can “really” talk to; so this is a blessing! You could also pray for her and her salvation. And pray for me and my family, that we would continue to trust in Him as He leads. Thank you so much 🙂
Hey LaDonna…I’m late with this, but I will be praying for you for the next 14 days. I will pray for your church and your mom too.
I live in Ontario, Canada, so it would be a long distance “confident” thing, but if you’d like to connect you can find me on Twitter @CarolHulin and we can go from there.
Praying for you girl.
This is awesome!! Thanks for seeking to love us well, guys.
i am 27… Living in Kenya, Africa and running a foster care-like home for babies who need some extra loving for the time being. Completely and utterly in way over my head but kind of love it that way because even getting through 5 minutes of the day without Jesus is a laughable aim. 🙂 He is so crazy about orphans and I am amazed every day that He lets me spend my life loving them. At the same time, Satan fights hard to keep these kids feeling forgotten, outcast, and unloved so the spiritual battles are constant. Jesus is always victorious but man, the darkness is THICK here. Prayers are so appreciated… Mostly to pray for these children with me, I want Jesus to hear their names spoken in prayer so often. Thanks so much…
Hi! I’m Carrie, 24 and I’m from Connecticut. I graduated in August and have no idea what God wants me to do. I’m substitute teaching in what many call a “ghetto” school and it’s pretty difficult. I have no passion to teach, but there are no jobs. I thought to be a sonographer, rn, counselor, musician, etc. I’m super frustrated because of this and it is very, very hard to find a community of God-fearing community of 20 something’s up here. Please pray. I’m struggling to seek, hear and enjoy Christ and His presence. Ps I have one single friend and no ambitions to marry anytime soon…… good times! 😉
I don’t want to miss what Jesus has for me ….ever.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
My sincere apologies!. I hit submit before finishing!
Hi, I am Carrie too, from RI (now living in VA) and a teacher. So I can relate to how spiritually lonely New England can be, As an older siesta in her 30s, I will commit to praying for you!
My name is Audra Kennedy. I’m 22 years old and I’m currently working as a college recruiter. I live in Gardendale, AL.
In a few months, I’m moving to Canada to live closer to my Dad and family. I met him two years ago for the first time and God has restored our relationship. I share all of this because it’s a big transition…
I’m praying for guidance and for the different ministry opportunities we have to share our story.
Hi Audra,
My name is Heather and I live in the Atlanta area. I will keep you in my prayers daily and will be praying Isaiah 30:21 over you. “Your ears will hear a word behind you, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or the left.” Praising the Lord also for restoring your relationship. May He restore “the years the locust has eaten,” Joel 2:25 and “rebuild the ancient ruins,” Is. 61:4
Thanks, Heather! 🙂
I’m Heather. I’m 26 years old. I was called to ministry for God’s daughters when I was 21 and that calling looks a bit different in its fruit each year. I’m married to a wonderful man and we have two curly headed little girls 4 & 2 years old with a baby due in July (surprise gender.) i so so badly want more zeal and passion for Him and His Word again but as you all know from experience, I’m tired and pregnancy just does some funky stuff to your passion and apathy balance.
My name is Nikki. I’m 21. I am from Benton, Arkansas. This summer I will be taking an internship position at my home church to serve as a mentor for our youth. I would love for you to pray that God would manifest His love and wisdom in me and in turn that I would radiat and pour that love into the students I will be serving.
hey nikki, i’d be delighted to pray for you. i’m a 49-yr-old that lives just down the road in arkadelphia. i work at ouachita & probably know a lot of your friends. 🙂 my son (a senior at obu) also serves as a youth intern at fbc-benton, so i know what a blessing this will be to you as you grow but also to your church. don’t discount the “small” moments, nikki. what might be a little thing to you can be used by God to do big stuff in the lives of your youth. i’m praying for you to love them when it’s beyond yourself. it’s going to be a great summer! 🙂
My name is Chelsea, I am 22 years old and recently moved to Atlanta, GA to serve in a high school ministry at a church here. The past few months have been challenging as I’m adjusting to post-grad life living in a new city, having a new job, and being a woman in ministry. I have had an especially hard time finding a community of other 20-something women who are passionate about their faith and can encourage me and challenge me in my own walk with God. On top of all that, my boyfriend of two and half years recently broke up with me, and I’m dealing with a lot of heartache and confusion and questioning where God is in all of this. I would greatly appreciate prayer during this time of transition.
Hi, I’m Kayla Mertes! I’m 26 years old from San Diego, CA. I run a non-profit and work in young women’s ministry. I love Jesus so much but I feel tired, need to be revived and I am missing my passion so much. Also single and have a wonderful family and friends! Thank you for praying.
I’m Kimberly from Amarillo Tx.
I’m about to graduate with my Master of Science in Communivation disorders and hopefully become a licensed Speech Language Pathology soon. At this point I am wrestling with accepting a job in Irving (about 400 miles from my parents friends etc) or staying at home and continuing a job search close to home. I have experience in the Irving area as I did my undergraduate at UNT and was a member of the Village church but other than that I would be without support until I developed a new community. I have also recently (last night?) dissolved a 7 year relationship with a man that I have prayed for clarification about for years. I thank The Lord for answered prayers but the separation/rejection is painful. I have to respond to the job offer by Monday and I would covet any prayers about my current situation.
My name is Aimee, and I’m a 25 year old living in Missouri. I’m in a place in life that’s as good as it is uncomfortable. Currently I work full time for an international ministry. Although this ministry is wonderful, and I am thankful that God has placed me here, I feel as though God is getting ready to move me. A lot of doors have been opening recently, and I need to wisdom to know which to walk through. I desire to make much of Jesus and am desperate for his guidance.
Hey Aimee! Where do you live? I’m from Missouri too!
I live in Springfield.
I’m Brittany, from Tennessee. I’m at a place in my life where a majority of my friends are getting married or are in serious relationships. I’m still single and, actually okay with that. I just have this tendency to feel extremely alone because I’m in a season of my life that most of my friends have moved out of. I have continually prayed for contentment where I am and asked the Lord to help me trust that his perfect plan is best.