ACTS - A Way to Pray

Psalm 145: 8-14

The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord, and all your saints shall bless you! They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom and tell of your power, to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. (The Lord is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.) The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

Adoration:

God, we praise You for Your grace and mercy. You give us both because it's WHO You are. You are all powerful and yet You choose to pour out graciousness.

Confession:

I confess that I am not always quick to bow, to look to You for endurance, or to speak of Your guidance like I should. You've done so much for me, and I want to make them known to my children.

Thanksgiving:

Thank you for being so slow to anger. Thank you for the never-ending love.

Supplication:

Today, God, cause us to stop and reflect on the power of Your love, grace, and mercy. Bring to mind someone that could use that kind of lovingkindness from me and give me the courage to give what has been lavishly given to me.

As I was reading this passage today, I couldn't help but think of the many ways God has been patiently loving towards me. He doesn't grow impatient with my failures and weaknesses. He isn't frustrated by my forgetfulness. So, why is it so hard for me to give that kind of love to others. We all have people in our lives that require a little extra grace. Share how this passage of scripture can empower you to love others even when it's difficult.

Use these verses and ACTS to write your own personal prayer in your journal.

Weekend Prayer - Father God, You've been so good to us. And, I don't think that goodness is meant to end with us. I believe You've called us to be containers that receive love, grace, and mercy in order to give them away. Call us deeper into Your presence over the weekend and cause us to experience Your love more deeply so that we can give more freely. Amen.