We call on you for help today, Father, as we regularly
do. Thank you for encouraging us. Thank you for welcoming our requests. Thank you for never forsaking us.
As sinful and selfish beings, we call on you. Help us recognize the gifts that you shower
upon us. Help us realize that you call
on us to give as well, following your example of giving manifested in your
faithful followers throughout the ages.
Help us realize that giving is a way of life. Help us to remember that is your will. Give us strength, character, and perseverance
to give and do what’s right because it’s right and because it is what you want.
We know there are many ways to give. We are often called to give the money you
place under our care. Help us remember
that it belongs to you. Help us to give
of your resources with abandon – money, talent, and most of all for many of us –
time.
Help us develop a character of giving, of giving our
best. Help us remember that when we give
freely, we are transformed from selfish beings who consider that we are the
center of the universe, into more Christ-like beings. Help us realize that we are a part of
something much larger, of something bigger than ourselves and that is the
kingdom of God.
Help us have a giving spirit with people we don’t like,
maybe who we even find reprehensible.
And help us have a giving spirit with people who don’t like us, who even
hate us.
Remind us that when we give it should not be for recognition,
not for a pat on the back. If our bosses
don’t notice or say it’s not enough, if our organizations don’t appreciate it,
don’t recognize it, if our churches take it for granted, if others take advantage
of it, help us to give anyway.
Help us to give because
it’s not between us and them, but instead because it’s between you and us. Help us remember, help us realize that giving
is a part of worship, that giving is a part of how we show we love you.
Loving God, we ask special blessings today on the European
Evangelistic Society. Bless them as they
continue seeking to be an international witness for the Christian Gospel
throughout Eastern Europe
Now hear us, Lord, as we
pray together the prayer that Jesus Christ taught us:
