A PERSONAL PRAYER 

Hey God,

I spoke with a friend in the oil industry yesterday, who lost his job when his whole team was eliminated. He was grieving the loss – friends he loves, people he has worked with for years, projects he has been a part of making happen. I know he isn’t the only one in that state of loss, and there will be more to come. God, I pray for discernment for these folks about what to do next. I pray for your provision for them. I pray for you to lift their spirits, and help them find what you have in mind for them next. Speak words of encouragement and wisdom into their hearts. Let them be reminded that Jesus’ greatest impact was when he stepped away from his life as a carpenter, and into a life dedicated only to love.

God, I confess that sometimes, my vocation feels more like a job than a calling. There are days it feels like a series of tasks, rather than opportunities to share you with others in word and deed. But I am so grateful for my job, God. And I pray that on those days it feels fruitless, open my eyes to your purposes at work in even the smallest thing I do. And on the days it feels too difficult, show me by your power that I am really just along for the ride while you pull the load. And on the days when my efforts are lacking, convict me to strive for excellence as an offering to you. And on days when I am riding high with success, remind me that your name is the only one that endures into eternity. I offer my work, such as it is, to you God. I pray that it is acceptable in your sight. Amen.