Prayer: More than promises
God, often my heart clings to the answers I desire, to the doors I hope will open, and to the dreams I carry, and I forget to look to You. But even when the answer is different from what I expect, I want to learn to trust in You. Teach me to remember that You remain good in the valley, in the waiting, in frustration, and in moments when I cannot understand.
I want to love You not only for what You can give me, but for who You are. When my dreams do not come true in the way I imagine, may I not turn away from You. When a door remains closed, may I not allow disappointment to separate me from Your presence. I want to know You more deeply than I know the promises I hope to receive, because I know that no achievement can be greater than having God Himself walking with me.
Father, remain close to me and also to my relationships in times of valleys. Teach me not to go through pain alone, that I may know how to humbly share my struggles and also welcome those who are facing their own valleys. Make us a community that supports each other, encourages each other, and remains united, reminding each other that Your presence is still with us even when we cannot see the next step.
When I am on the mountaintop, help me not to forget You. When I am in the valley, sustain me so that I do not lose hope. May I recognize that, in triumph, You are worthy of all honor, and, in loss, You remain worthy of all trust. Use every season of my life to mature my faith, deepen my dependence, and form in me the character of Christ.
Lord, I choose to remain with You. Even if I do not receive everything I ask for, I know that, in Christ, I have already received the greatest gift: reconciliation with You and the hope of Your presence. May I love You above my dreams, trust You above my circumstances, and walk with You at all times. Sustain my family, my friends, and all those I love, so that together we may remain firm, united, and confident in Your goodness. You are God on the mountaintop and in the valley. And, having You, I will never be in want. In Jesus' name, amen.
by
Rapha Abreu is a journalist and cultural producer, and part of the marketing, writing and content production team at Mr. Rocco.
