**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 4:23Â 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)Â 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
My name is Lindsey, 24 yrs in May, Houstonian turned Austinite in 2011 and I have been sober for almost 7 months. The road to Damascus story that led me to freedom gave me an undeniable picture of Gods perfect timing, goodness, and sovereignty. He has shown me where my security lies, and who I really am in Him!
As a ministers kid, and worship leader of 8 years who lived in captivity to my addictions for 5 years…I am now walking in freedom from those addictions and have been flooded with godly community- women who pray for me and with me, who sharpen me, who are mentors and dear friends. The Lord has also brought me back into ministry in a much different capacity and with such gentleness it makes me melt. Will you pray for continued sincere, pure devotion? Will you pray for humility, that God would break me of any lingering bondage (on wk 5 of breaking free with my girls) for opportunities to share my story and for boldness and confidence that rests only on His name. My Jesus! He is good! He is faithful!
Hi Lindsey!
I’m an Austinite who just moved to Charlotte, NC about 6 months ago. I will pray for all of these things for you for the next two weeks. What an amazing journey you’re on!
My name is Rachel. I’m 28 and live in Little Rock. I’m a stay at home mama to two little girls and expecting our third daughter in July. Thank you in advance for your prayers!
I’m Cyndy and I was a stay-at-home mom, too. I’ll pray for you, Rachel!
My name is Samantha. I’m a 23 year old college student from Western Kentucky, who is quite ready to graduate in December! When I grow up, I’m going to be a high school history teacher. (I know, I’m brave… :)) I work in my home church and I share the gospel through song every time/place I am asked. I have been going through medical tests for 3 years now but doctors have yet to find a diagnosis. There is one doctor who knows, and HE gives me the strength to carry on! It is hard to stay focused and committed to living for Christ, but, goodness, is it worth it! Thanks in advance! 🙂
My name is Amber, I’m 27 and live in Katy, Texas. We recently moved here to start a new business. I’m also a mom to the sweetest 10 month old baby girl. I’m blessed to be able to stay home with her but I’m struggling with feeling that I’m giving all of myself to her that there’s no time/energy left to devote to my husband or The Lord.
My name is Taylor, I live in Texas and am in my mid-20s. This post hit my heart hard- I have been longing to be lifted in prayer and encouraged to continue growing and pursuing life in Christ.
I have been job searching for over a year, and have yet to find anything. My heart desperately longs to be a mother (I’ve been married for about 2 years), but there are many barriers in the way of that, including financial. We’ve recently moved to a new town and I have yet to make friends or any solid connections. Loneliness is a constant battle. I desire to press in to Him in this time and find comfort and peace, but I struggle to find those things. Thank you for your prayers.
Hi Taylor!
I’ve just moved from Austin (I lived in Texas for 29 of my 32 years) to Charlotte, NC. I have one friend here but am feeling very lonely, too! I have friends praying for friends and peace for me… I will pray the same for you. And for the tangibles, too. 🙂
Much love and a big hug to you!
Liz
Thank you for praying for me, Liz!! I live near Austin, and I’ve also lived in NC! Small world. Hope that you make some friends soon as well.
Hi Taylor,
I will be keeping you in my prayers daily…my husband and I were in that same boat of unemployment and for so long I felt alone since everyone seemed to have been going through similar situations I wouldn’t bring it up.
We are moving this summer to a new town to be closer to his new job which is amazing and truly only through the works of our God did he get it.
I will pray you grow closer to our Father, that He comfort you and bring Godly friends that will lift you up in this hard time…and everything else.
But please don’t grow weary He is faithful.
With love your sister in Christ, Ariana
Chino, CA
Thank you for praying for me, Ariana!! It means so much that someone I don’t even know would take the time to lift me up.
My name is Caitlin I’m 22 and from Mitchell, SD. I’m currently finishing my 4th year of school at Oklahoma State and am I’m in the midst of what I am deeming a “quarter life crisis” :o). I don’t know what God has for me after I am done here, and it has created a definite source of anxiety, lack of trust in God in my life, and has me in this constant selfish state of mind as I keep praying for me and thinking about me and how I can be comfortable.
I saw Beth’s tweet that guys can comment too. So, here I am. I’m 24, and I’m from Georgia. I spent the last two years serving overseas in ministry. I’m currently praying about my next step. Right now, I’m leaning towards seminary in Texas. I would love for the Lord to renew my passion for Him and my zeal for carrying the Gospel to the nations (the past few months in America haven’t made sustaining that love easy). I would love to have confirmation from Him about the next step. Thanks for your prayers!
Hi Sam –
I am currently overseas right now too, and I have been asking some of the same questions. I would be honored to ‘adopt’ you in prayer these next two weeks, brother! I can see you are a man after God’s heart and I can’t wait to see how he answers your prayers in big ways for his glory. 🙂
My name is Alissa. I’m a 25 year old from Memphis, TN. I’m an RN to kids/teens at a treatment center- tough job at times, but I know God has me there for a reason- that I can be a light in their dark times- to show them there’s more to life than where they grew up, who they hang around, what names they’ve been called… Please pray for me as I’m striving to go deeper in my relationship with Christ right now, and that I would have a new thirst to read His Word. Thank you!
Dear Alissa, I will commit to pray for you. As a mother of 3 former-teens adopted from the state foster system and the mother of a child by birth who has been treated 3 times in mental health treatment centers, your post resonated with my heart. I know how discouraging it can be to remain light in that darkness. I will join you in improving my own daily reading.
He is faithful. All children are walking closely with the Lord now, after my faith in His faithfulness faltered. I will pray for Him to show you encouraging signs of HIS work in these kids’ lives.
I live in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Bless you, my dear.
Alissa, bless your heart. I will partner with you and pray for you to love Jesus more deeply and completely than ever before. I commit to praying over you for the next 14 days. I’m so proud of you for the work you are already doing. God bless. If there is anything else I can pray for, let me know. As the deer pants for water may you thirst for our Lord, Jesus Christ.
I’m 25 years old and took a leap of faith last year when I moved from California to virginia to work for a christian counselor and her ministry. After months of depression and finally everything ending abruptly I have managed to pull everything together and now have a job, place to live and a church I love. But I feel so lonely and far from everything I have ever known but I KNOW God brought me here for a reason I just wish He would let me see a glimpse. I thank you so much for your prayers of direction and to hold on to what God has promised me because it is so difficult to stay strong.
I am praying for you! I lived in CA for years and now live in VA as well. How can I be a blessing to you?
26 from BC,Canada! 3 kids, 5 yrs, 3yrs, 3 months. Jesus loving mom trying to live my life as an act of worship to our Lord. Trying different ministries trying to find Gods place for me. Desiring a more intimate relationship with our King – I want to see visions, dream dreams and pray in a heavenly tongue. Daily dedicating myself and my kids, house and hubby Him and his purposes. Surrendering our lives to His plan. Trying to see His Holiness in everything I do in a day! Thanks for your prayers!!
I will be 20 in 2 months. I sense i am called to theater, worship, speaking and acting/singing. Could use prayer for finances for tuition and living expenses, job for the summer that pays well and f/t hours and I need a breakthrough in knowing the love of God more in my life – struggle with self hatred and performance/perfectionism.
Hi Friends,
my name is Miranda. I am 20 years old and am a college student in Virginia. This post really hit me hard. Currently, I am in a place of walking through healing from a lot of things that happened in my childhood. It’s so hard and I am struggling to receive Jesus’ love. Though I am a believer, it’s just hard to really trust His love. Therefore, I am unable to love myself and others the way that He has called me to. I’d appreciate prayer over this. Thanks for being awesome, y’all. I love you.
-Miranda
Miranda, My name is Tina and I’m from Minnesota. Your post touched my heart as I walked a similar path of healing in my early twenties. I feel led to pray for you these next fourteen days. I will pray fervently and specifically for your continued healing and that you feel swallowed up in the unlimited mercy and matchless love of Christ Jesus. I will also pray something that a very beautiful and anointed lady prayed for me back then, right out of 1 Peter 5:10, “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” Be blessed!
Hi Miranda,
I’ve got you covered. I have a daughter your age, and have been in your shoes, although it took me much longer to get to the acceptance of Jesus’ incredible love for me. I’m so proud of you for reaching out for help, for being honest in your struggle. Isaiah 26:3. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You. Praying for you!!!!
Miranda..will be praying for you to receive all that God has for you…that your pain will be turned one day to joy!
Hello Miranda, I am Rachel. I will be praying for you precious daughter of The King! Proud of you for choosing to seek healing, very brave and courageous! Our Heavenly Daddy is such a gentleman, He will slowly reveal and heal what has been hurt. I pray that the Lord is your strength, peace and comfort as you continue your journey. As the Lord heals your wounds precious one, your heart will have room for more of Christs love in your heart and you will love yourself as well as others more than ever before.
As a survivor of childhood physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse, I can promise you that the Lord will heal and restore you dear one. Keep pressing forward in Him!
You are beautiful, you are precious, you are so very important and loved beloved!! Praying for you!
*Romans 8:28 God will take your ashes and turn it into something beautiful!!
Miranda,
My name is Becki and I am from Battle Creek, MI. I would be honored to stand in the gap for you over the next 2 weeks.
My name is Victoria, I’m 24 and I’m in grad school getting my Masters in Auburn, AL. I have a heart for youth and adolescents, for mission work, and for counseling. I’ve been praying for direction in my life, to do what God wills for me. Thank you so much for this post, it hit right at home.
My name is Jana, I’m 25 and from Alabama. I have been an elementary school teacher for 3 years before my husband and I had our first baby 6 months ago. Now I’m a stay at home mom, which I love, and serve on the children’s ministry at church. I could use prayers for our baby boy, Elijah. I had a very traumatic pregnancy in which I got severe preeclampsia, was on bed rest for 3 months, and he still came 2 1/2 months premature. He spent 2 months in the NICU before coming home. My husband and I really desire to have more than 1 child, but the doctors have told me that because my preeclampsia was so bad I could get it with future pregnancies and it could be even more dangerous. Prayers are appreciated that we will be able to have another child without me getting preeclampsia and the child being born premature. We have also talked about adopting in the future.
Also, my husband is a police officer and works nights and I often find myself struggling with fear (which has been a battle my whole life).
I have loved Jesus all my life and want to fall more in love with Him and trust Him in every situation. I want a renewed passion for His word and to feel his presence with me daily. I love Him so much and have experienced his faithfulness through the hard times we have recently had. Thank you all for the prayers!
Hey Jana,
I will be praying over you! I know it’s a day or so late, but you are officially on my list with the other couple I have caught onto. You are dearly loved and for the child thing, hits home for me too. I understand the battles with NICU through my own sisters eyes and I stand in agreement for God to fulfill your hearts desires for children by one way or another. A heart that loves children and dream for my own one day, I know how taunting and easy it is for the enemy to dig his teeth into making us discouraged in that hope. Adoption isn’t a scary thing either, I have five younger siblings adopted and would never consider them anything different from being my own siblings. May grace come upon you in whatever God has planned for you on that journey. God bless! You are loved!
Hello my name is Bridgett Benton U’m not on my twenties but I am 32 I’ll be miving with my sister in Summerville, South Carolina. My relationship with God has not been a good one. See I’ve had such a hard life & still don’t quite understand some of the things I have been through and what I’m going through now. I love Jesus & knows that everything will work out according to his plan. But I do question why me (sometimes). I would like to have a better relationship with God & be able to walk in faith. I”m still trying to find my purpose in this life but I want to know god & be able to feel his love & acceptance. My husband & I are separating only after 11 months of marriage. Not because of any cheating but because I didn’t know what it meant to be a wife. There was a lot of disrespect from me (now that I look back on things). The language I & tone I use when speaking to him is all I’ve ever known. Not to use that as an excuse, but I really didn’t know it was hurting him until he told me I have a nasty attitude. This hurt in so many ways because I didn’t want him to see me that way. But it was the perception I gave him. He still loves me & has said that he’s in love with me but he can’t deal with my attitude. I’m asking for prayers on my marriage but most importantly on my relationship with God.
Bridgett, you are my girl! I will be praying for you from Fayetteville, AR. The Lord has knit YOU into my heart and I will be praying for Him to reveal Himself to you every day in His creative and loving way. I am praying that He will AMAZE you!! I am so excited to know that His eyes are upon you!! Bless you, girl!!
Hey Tonya! I’m so glad I have a prayer “partner”. I will be praying for the both of us over the next 14days. Thanks so much!
I’m Kristin, 25, single, and living life in Georgia hours from family. While life on a church staff is amazing and fulfilling, I never expected to live in a glass house. Prayers for love and passion for Christ would be an overwhelming blessing, along with how to best live out “normal” life (dating, friends, family etc.).
much love to you Beth for thinking and being burdened for us!
My name is Lisa. I’m from Houston. I have been a believer since a young age but am struggling as I adjust to a new phase of live (married, working full time, minister’s wife) to really make Jesus a part of my day. I want him to passionately stir up my heart for him. What Beth said about being one of those that doesn’t join in on the cynics…oh I want that….my heart’s desire.
and I promise that I do know how to spell 🙂 Typing this quickly while at work.
Hi, friends! I’m a 23 year old recent grad working and living in Washington, D.C., just figuring out how to be in the “real world”. Life is funny, scary, beautiful, overwhelming, full, and crazy all at once.
Since graduating last May, my world has turned upside down. New people, new places, new normals, good things (awesome friends/church/community), sad things (my father passed away–totally unexpected), confusing things (why am I doing what I’m doing, where I’m doing it!?), and exciting things (trying to lead high schoolers to Jesus [through Young Life]). I really can’t imagine MORE change, but I know it is imminent.
It’s been a whirlwind year. I KNOW The Lord has plans that exceed any of my own, but in such a seemingly unstable stage of my life, it’s hard to FEEL like He does.
Knowing that I am prayed for, supported, and believed in is the coolest thing ever. Thank you.
I work in DC as well! :). I will be praying for you and would be happy to meet you for coffee sometime to encourage you as well. Keep being fearless. He made you for such a time as this!
Hi Sarah,
I left a comment here a few days ago but it didn’t post! I am praying for you! I’m from Oregon and I met my husband at Young Life weekend camp in 1973! We have three daughters about your age. I’m praying for you to hear God’s voice, know His incredible love for you, sense His calling to be 100% His and be filled with the Spirit who will give you every single thing you need to live for Him. I’m sure you miss your dad tremendously. Much love clear across the country!
My name is Lacy. I’m 25. I live in Tennessee. I am a graduate student in Biblical and Theological studies and I am on staff at the University I am attending. Pray for restored passion for God and knowledge of him and the Bible that goes beyond the head. Pray for a more tender heart and a heart of forgiveness. Pray for something to break through in my relationship with God because I have been in the longest, driest spiritual desert.
Hi y’all! My name is Paige and I’m 20. I’m a student at UT and living in Austin. Life is crazy right now but so so sweet. I’m actually blogging myself and feel a very deep passion for writing, bible study, etc. with 20 something women. I took a class with Jennie Allen this past semester about the life of Joseph and desperately sought what the Lord wants to do with my life and passions. And He answered. And He answered in some scary big ways. I am so thirsty for wisdom, boldness and a commitment to use my PR degree to seek freedom for young women like myself. I need clarity in my thoughts, words, and desires to reach other girls who are stuck behind “good girl” bondage. I want others to experience the freedoms of Christ. Would love your prayers for my places at school, passions, and people placed in my life.
Hey! Im also a Texas gal..praying for you Paige 🙂
I am 29 and single, working and going to school full-time to eventually become a licensed grief counselor. I am struggling emotionally with some anxiety and sadness, and would appreciate your prayers that God would restore a pure heart, renew my love for Him and a strong sense of purpose, and strengthen me to do what He has called me to do!
Hi Lindsey! I would looove to pray for you. I am 29 years old and am a school counselor in mid-coast Maine. I too have struggled with anxiety and sadness and know how difficult it is to face the days when both these powerful emotions (often can be strongholds) try to weigh one down. Sometimes what gets me through is knowing that God’s mercies are new every morning and that His grace is sufficient. 🙂
Hi, I’m Katie! I am 25 years old, and from the North Texas area. I am a wife and mother. Please pray that I earnestly seek God above all else. Pray that He gives me insight from His Word. Pray for my family. Please pray that I continually show my daughter Jesus.
Katie,
Sorry this is soooo late. I saw your post on the other (2nd) blog entry. I just added you to my prayer list. I’m in Ohio, 54 years old, still have teenagers at home. Can totally relate to your prayer requests, as I have been (and still am in some ways) where you are! So excited that you are seeking God and his Word at such an early age. So many of us are “late-bloomers”. Blessings to you and your family.
My name is Kate and I am a junior in College. I have been in a relationship with a God-fearing man for almost 3 years now, who I have thought all along is going to be the man that I marry. Recently, I have been unsure of him really being the man God has for me to marry. Please pray for God to show His will to me and that I would be obedient to that. Also please pray that I will trust and be fully confident in God’s plan for my life without having any fear. Thank you so much in advance for your prayers.
My name is Samantha and I am 24 years old and currently live in Iowa. I have been married for almost 2 years and my husband and I have an 11 month old baby girl! I use to be a dental assistant, but never went back to work after becoming a mother. I feel so blessed that I am able to stay at home and raise my daughter. Over the last couple of years, I have felt like I am becoming hardened to the world around me and have been asking the Lord to give me a softer heart. I have also overcome a lot of sin since high school/college and continue to battle with the wounds and scars as a result. I would greatly appreciate prayers for my continued journey with the Lord as I seek tofind what He has in store for me in the years to come!
My name is Becki and I am from Battle Creek, MI. I have been where you are and I would be honored to intercede on your behalf over the next 2 weeks.
Thank you Becki! It means so much to me that someone who has never met me would pray on for me. Much appreciated!
I am Alanna and I’m 20 years old. I am a sophomore in college. I am currently struggling to raise support for a missions trip to Angola this summer. Please be praying that I will have faith in the Lord to provide! And also that I would have the courage to continue making phone calls to potential supporters. I am worried about my financial situation, but I know God is in control! Please pray that I will have that knowledge in my heart as well as my mind.
I was so inspired by this post and thankful for the opportunity for prayer. Thanks for all you do!
I am Megan, I am 23 from Arkansas! I am currently working part time as well as going to school. I will be getting married in June and I ask for prayer that I would be a Godly wife to my husband and also prayer to just be more bold for Christ! I feel a calling on my life to minister to young girls due to not so great experiences I had as a teen. I want to show them the love and worth found in Christ. Please say a small prayer for my ministry! Thank you so much!
Hey! I am Leah from South Georgia. I am a 22 year old recent graduate of UGA, and I am currently a first year student at a school in Memphis, TN pursing my calling to become an Optometrist. As this school year comes to a close, I am amazed by God’s grace. I will be traveling to Belize in two weeks to share God’s love and provide eye care to an area that has never had access to vision care. I am prayerful that God will open my eyes and not allow me to “grow cold” to His desire for my 3 years left of school, and how He wants to use me in the years to come to further His kingdom through my profession.
22 year old living in Houston. Going through the repercussions of a break up. The Lord is teaching me so much already in this short time. May He become the foremost love of my life for the rest of my life.
I’m Sarah from Texas. I left my job at the hospital as a nurse to stay at home with our 3 children. 2 boys and a daughter (all 4 and under). My husband is a police officer. I want to love Jesus more than anything else…husband and kids. And I want to trust Him more.
Oh, Sarah. I want to trust Him more, too!
I am praying for you. My husband (a pastor in Austin, TX) and I have three kids (26, 22, 19). I want to affirm your decision to stay home with your little ones.
Praying for patience, joy and wisdom. Praying your love for God will increase. And you will get comfortable leaning into Him for everything.
My name is Rachel, and I am 24. I recently moved away from my family and my home town (Perryton, TX) to Mesquite, TX. I am currently waiting and trying to understand what the next step in God’s plan for me is, specifically what type of job I should go into or possibly if I should go to the mission field. I know that God is working in me and preparing me for how He will use me in the future, but the waiting is so difficult! It is a long and often painful fight to keep focusing on listening for His guidance. There are many days that the worries and stresses of this life wear me down, but this reading this post has definitely given me the encouragement I needed today!!
I just turned 30 2 weeks ago. I live in Conway, Arkansas and am in a season of stepping out on faith to follow God into full-time collegiate ministry. I’m nervous as it definitely doesn’t make sense but excited for the same reason. I am single and praying for a husband/ministry partner. My prayer is that I will continue in this wait graciously and gracefully. I would also love for y’all to pray that I would not be intimidated or influenced by anyone else’s expectations of me except for Jesus’. I’m so thankful for and humbled by the prayers of this sisterhood.
Hi CC –
Happy belated birthday! I’m Nicole from Seattle. I will definitely be pray for your ministry – that you will step out boldly and confidently in Christ. Also that you will wait on God’s timing for a husband. I’m also 30 and single, so I know it comes with blessings and challenges.
My name is Lance Thrailkill, and I am 29 years old living in Dallas, Texas. I was one of the young adult’s that shared their #mystory at the Porch, which ended up trending on twitter and catching Jefferson’s eye! I am incredibly moved and encouraged to see how God has used the #mystory movement to reach millions in our country and even all over the world! Please pray for me to live above reproach, to live constantly on mission, and for God to use me to bring as many people as possible to Christ!!! I am still haunted by all the sexual memories on my sinful past and am surrounded by temptation, but thank God Jesus has freed me from the chains of slavery and I now stand on the rock of Salvation!! Pray for me to stand firm and not grow weary in doing good, and pray that God will use my generation to start a SPIRITUAL REVIVAL in this country that so desperately needs it! Thank you in advance for your prayers and thank you Beth for this very wise, helpful and encouraging blog post!! God bless you all!!
My name is Robbie, I live in Amarillo, Texas, & I’m 25 years old.
I’ve been married for almost two years to a high school football coach who loves The Lord & is a wonderful example of Christ’s love for me.
We have been facing so many changes in our lives lately…through all of it, we have been pressing into The Lord more than ever. Two weeks ago, we found out we are pregnant. This was completely unplanned & unexpected & totally rocked our world. As we work through the emotions and the questions, I feel The Lord’s hand all over our lives & this little life we have been blessed with.
My fear is that with all the “adult” stresses of life that suddenly seem imminent, we will not only loose our passion for The Lord, but everything that seems special & strong about our marriage. I “wasn’t ready” to give up this time of just my husband & me but I also KNOW that God has given us good gifts to bring all the glory back to Him. I pray we have only seen a glimpse of the passion that God can put on our hearts for Him & each other.
Hey, I’m Ryan
I’m a 22 year old student at Sam Houston state. School is coming to an end with two weeks to go plus finals. Honestly that’s one of the smallest things in my life. The two big ones are this summer I will be working at Carolina Creek Christian Camp, I’m so so so excited to being working there! I can not wait to see how God blesses and what He teaches me. The second is I have met a girl a few months ago. I asked to pursue her heart and she said ok. So she asked her parents what do they think they said its a great idea but why don’t y’all pre-court first (become best friends) so we are doing that and it’s awesome getting to see Cory Lynn’s heart! So idk really what to ask for from camp and with Cory Lynn, but those are the big things on my heart.
Thanks for praying for me who ever you are :):)
My Sisters! My name is Brittany 20 years old! and I’m from Arizona!! Im getting MARRIED to a wonderful man name Brandon in 3 weeks on May 11 :o) super excited 🙂 but also nervous and stressed out(I heard thats typical). Im working in healthcare and trying to figure out if I should go to beauty college this year or if I should hold off…
I feel like Gods might also be calling me into ministry maybe..but I dont know where I belong..
Going through so many different trials this season of my life. LOTS OF CONFUSION I might add!!!
My deepest desire is that I just want to be more like Christ. A quiet and gentle hearted spirit woman and to understand what real beauty is.
Ladies if you could pray specifically that I’d be a God honoring Wife and I would reflect Christ in everything I do that be amazing!!
Hi, I’m Brandi. I live in Maine and I’m 25. I lead a high school girls Bible study with a few dedicated teens. At this time I’ve been attending a new church and am considering changing my membership from the church I’ve been in since I was 3. It’s been a time of change and learning to find the joy in every situation. I’m also single and trying to be content with this phase of my life. Thank you so much!
Also wanted to let y’all know that I will put every name in my prayer journal! Praying for all of y’all!
Hi my name is Lauren. I am 24 and live in Alexandria, LA. I returned a few months ago from a 4 month mission trip to Uganda. That is where my heart is and I can’t wait for the day I return. I am currently working as a receptionist in in a Doctor’s office.
Thanks for the prayers! They mean more than you know
My name is Deidre. I’m 26 yrs old. I LOVE God and I feel like He has great plans for my life. However, over time things have not been going the way I planned or imagined. I’m guilty of becoming cynical and tired of this process.
I feel like I’m waiting…just waiting on my life to really start. Instead of drawing nearer to God…I sometimes blame him. My days are up and down. I feel like I’ve done what I can naturally to prepare myself…schooling…ministry. But I’m still waiting. Waiting on a mate, ministry, and a career boost. I just don’t want to be disappointed anymore. I know God loves me, but I don’t think I can handle disappointment again. I’ve followed so many dead end roads.
I want to start a website for struggling and “on the fence” Christians (mostly young adults who want MORE..and want to serve God with their lives by helping others.) However, I’m afraid to start because I feel like it will be another dead end. All of this seems to have built a wall between God and I. I know he’s there…I know he hears me, but I’m afraid that this is all life will be for me.
Thanks for the prayers and this outlet.
I understand about being done with waiting. I too have this general feeling that I’m waiting for my life to really start and yet I don’t completely understand on how to make that happen.
Not that I would wish anyone to feel this way but it’s nice to know that your not the only one.
Praying for you Deidre.
This is such a beautiful idea, and I am so, so thankful I happened across this post today. It’s an incredible response to some heart-aching conversations I’ve been having with The Lord lately, about feeling the lack of a spiritual mamma to pray and speak wisdom and kick my butt.
My name is Stephanie, I’m 24, and I live in Watford in the UK. I work for a Christian-run pregnancy crisis centre and do self-esteem work with teenage girls, alongside some volunteer work with a social justice charity. I’m passionate about intercession and family and community and seeing an end to the sex trade and fostering and adoption, and I’m trying to work out how all those things fit together (particularly in the light of being single/on a low income etc.). In the midst of all that, I’m still healing from wounds left by a pretty dark family history, and struggle with depression and anorexia. I want to love and follow Jesus with everything I’ve got, and I hate that rubbish from my past gets in the way. I would be crazy-honoured if someone chose to pray for me. Thank you, from the bottom of my cracked and aching heart.
I just wanted to update the above in case anyone happens across my post… Just after writing the above, I found out I’m being made redundant at the end of June. I’m still reeling.
Stephanie – I was just skimming through some of these older posts, and yours grabbed both my eye and my heart! I love that you have such a heart and passion for women and girls in all sorts of crisis situations, from pregnancies, to sex trade. I am so sorry you are facing your own struggles with wounds from your past. I will be praying that as Jesus heals your broken heart and binds up those wounds, He will grow in you a greater wisdom as to how to love and care for those He has called you to serve. I will be praying for freedom from your fight against anorexia and depression. My heart hurts for you as I know how heavy these burdens can feel. I’m sorry, but I’m not sure what it means that you’re being made redundant at the end of June. I will be praying for you as I know God knows! I hope you see this message to know I am praying. You were wonderfully made and God is SO for you! With love…Julie from Texas
Stephanie – Just wanted to let you know that I looked up the term “being made redundant” and realized you would be released from your job. I am so sorry! I am praying and believing that He has a plan for you and that as you seek Him – He will direct you in the way you should go! I am praying that as you go through this time of trials, you will be able to count it as joy as you see His hand working in and through you – that on the other side, you will know your Savior and Healer in a way you never dreamed possible! I’m praying that you will see my messages, so you’ll know He led me to your post and put you on my heart! He cares for you, and so do I! Love in Him…Julie
I stumbled across this post on Twitter and it hit home! I’m a 21 year old college senior in VA..and it is really, REALLY hard to be a Christian in college. I feel like every time my heart is on fire for God, that fire is squelched within days by business, exhaustion, or focusing too much on me and what I want. I’m trying to learn to guard my heart and cherish my time with the Lord, and remaining consistent in my time with Him.
And, of course, I’m experiencing all the typical struggles of a 21 year old- post-college decisions, becoming a responsible (bleh) adult, falling in love and wanting to make the man your first priority all the time, choosing good friends, not falling into the typical college temptations, time management, working while being a student…
Anyway, all prayers are more than appreciated.. Life is hard, being a Christian is hard, but I’m so thankful for a community of people that can be strangers and brothers and sisters at the same time 🙂
I’m Kelsey from Mississippi, and 19 years old (almost 20-something)! Most of my struggles in my walk with Christ come from my lack of confidence due to my sinful past. I ask prayers for courage to speak His words when He places them in me, and to step out in faith when He calls me. 1 Timothy 4:12 Thank you for your prayers. May God bless you all!
I will be praying for you and that your stronghold of your past hindering your confidence in Christ to be fully broken! I too come from a taunting choice of mistakes in my past and just recently that bump of confidence from God has prevailed and taught me that if it is of His will within me He will break down the walls to the paths He has before me. I pray for those barriers to be broken down and something comes along to bring revelation to you that your past has nothing to do with where God is going to lead you. That something comes along that you know in your own heart is only a calling from our Father, and it closes that door to your past and opens the door to the future to where He is walking hand and hand with you forward through this door and the every door after that.
My name is Kesley, I’m 24 and I live in Rome, GA. I’m currently getting my Masters in Leadership and have 7 months left. I just want to do what God wants me to do. I’m going to Uganda for two weeks in June and hopefully to New Mexico that month as well for Missions. God has put the desire to speak and help lead worship. I want to inspire others to experience the freedom, love, and forgiveness they can only find in Christ. I’m actively involved in Celebrate Recovery. I also have a desire to be married and have a Christ-centered marriage. Please pray for the Lord to expand me in this ministry and mature my boyfriend (Matt Herod) and our relationship in Christ. I see the Lord working in mine and his heart but I want Him to strengthen it and draw us closer to Him. I want us to find our specific purposes through our love for the Lord.
My name is Katie I’m in nursing school in Alabama right now. I’m struggling with trusting God with every part in my life, not just the small day to day stuff, trusting Him that he has a man out there for me that he is God’s best and to just have the patience to wait for God’s timing. I also struggle day to day with keeping my heart and actions pure, I cannot tell you how deep it hit me when you said “Our second huge relief is that we can have a pure heart whether or not we have a pure past.” Thank you Jesus is right. I thought being a teenager was a hard an confusing time but boy was I wrong. Lord, give us the strength to get through these confusing times and help us figure out who we are in you! Thank you Beth for everything you do and your encouraging words and prayers for all of us, you are such an insperation!
Katie, I’m Lauren from Kentucky and I teach nursing. I’m praying for you. It is so hard to stay pure day to day in a world that is so confusing. Praying for God to keep Your heart, guide your steps, and keep You in His Will.
My name is Anna. I am 24 and from Kentucky. I am a graduate student and a graduate assistant. I am not going through anything extremely serious. I am struggling with trusting the Lord in various areas in my life. Also, in trusting in His Spirit inside of me and guiding me. I also deal with pride, selfishness, and idolatry in my life. The last thing is that I will keep my vision and purpose on Christ and the eternal perspective of making disciples. I am wanting to minister to the people in my department at my university. I also have a passion for working with internationals (specifically right now internationals in the university setting).
Thank you! = )
Anna, I’m a Kentucky girl. Praying for you as you continue on in your studies and as you look to His vision for your life. May He richly bless you and keep you!
My name’s Leigh & I am a 21 year old college student in North Carolina. These past few weeks have been challenging, as family issues and emotional disorders have been resurfacing. I ask for prayer as I seek to focus on Christ instead of my fears and trust his provision. I am also going to be working at a camp for girls this summer and I’ve been feeling like I need to get all of my problems solved before I can go lead these young girls- but I guess that’s one of the sweetest parts about our Father. If you could be praying that I would let his strengths overtake and get all of the glory in my weaknesses, that would mean so much.
I am almost 20, and desperately need prayer so I thought I would reply. I have been through trials recently. My freshman year of college my parents went through a divorce. My dad, a previous alcoholic and addict, suffers from bipolar disorder, does not take his medication, and is no longer in my life. I am now pretty much on my own financially. Therefore, I just transferred schools to save money. I have a really hard time relating to my mom with whom I live. My little brother who is 16 is spiraling out of control, and it breaks my heart to see the future he is setting himself up to have. I am facing a test, as Joyce Meyers would put it. I am trying to ‘love the unlovable’ and the sad thing is that the unlovable is my very own family. I have been trying to guard my heart by building up fences, and keeping God’s love and encouragement within my own parameter, sharing it from time to time with my family. However, Satan is surely trying to bring me down by tormenting me with fear, doubt, and making sure I don’t desire to share God’s love with my family because I feel they don’t love me (but I know they do). I have been struggling with doubt in God’s perfect plans, doubt that I can handle what He has placed in my path (paying bills, making good grades, etc..). Yet, these are outright lies and instead of building fences I need to maintain and effectively, purposefully open the gate and share God’s love with my family (this is very difficult for me by the way) So please pray that I will not doubt God’s plans for my life-but I will remember all things do work for the good of those who love Him. Pray that I will not stay on my pity-pot and believe Satan’s lies, but that I will flush the mess. Pray that I will maintain, and sustain my love for God that I will fight for it, and be strengthened to purposefully share it with my family in some way every day. Please pray that I will trust God. Pray that I will not fear, worry, or doubt. Pray that I will not harden my heart(which I feel happening) but that I will open it to loving others. Pray for my family. Thank you!!!!
Hi Hilary!
I’ll be praying for you and your family for 14 days.
I will pray that you can feel His peace, and rest in His arms.
I will pray that you see clear reasons to trust God. And that you will not be afraid, have worry or doubt. I will also pray your heart will soften.
My name is Jenn, I am 37, and I have been married for almost 14 years and we have two boys 2 & 4.
Rebecca
From the Midwest
Wife to a church planter surounded by those who are disenchanted and unimpressed by the Truth. I appreciate the support.
Rebecca I am praying for you!
Kim in Rushville Ohio
Rebecca…my daughter is a church planter’s wife also in Texas. I am blessed to pray for you and your hubby! Your post jumped off the page at me. I thank God for your faithfulness to go minister in the unbelievers. They may not receive truth, but they can’t deny love. The world doesn’t offer that. I am praying in the book of Ephesians for your church…praying the hope of Jesus in your eyes and the power of Jesus in your touch. May God empower your by His Spirit to love and persevere.
Kim
My name is Lauren and I am 27 years old. I live in southern Indiana with my husband, who is a pastor, and our three children (6 and under) who we adopted from foster care. Our fourth child will join us in July. I appreciate prayer for the Holy passion to grow in my heart, that I won’t forget my First love, and that I could be a Godly and selfless wife and mom. Also, it’s hard to find quiet time with three small children 🙂
Praying for Holy Spirit’s guidance in your life and the time to find that much needed quite time with God we all need daily to keep moving forward with Him! Praise God for adoption, I am not adopted, but I have five others in my family who are adopted into it. I love them all dearly and it is such a blessing for anyone who does foster or adoption. Seeing my parents take on children besides my older sister and I in our late teen years took tremendous dedication and I give them grace for that. They do what they can do, so I will be praying for grace upon you in your heart of all places to keep that love of Him flowing outwards to them all! God Bless!
I can’t express how much I would appreciate prayers!! For the past three months God has really been getting my attention in so many areas of my life, and for the first time in my life I truly understand what being a Christian is all about. In the past week I’ve heard 3 sermons about passion and pursuing something that God has gifted you with, to further the Kingdom (Louie Giglio’s current series is blowing me away!). So I guess my prayer is that I would see where he is leading and follow it no matter what cost. I want so badly to be in God’s will but I would love for a little direction. I graduate in a year from college so I still have some time to figure out exactly what I love and want to do! I love to write, so maybe something with that. Thank you, Thank you for the prayers!!! In him -Lizzy
Also forgot to say thatI’m 21 years old and I’ve lived in Sweden for the past 11 years but currently live in Lynchburg,VA and going to school at Liberty University!