Faith Affirming Teacup Prayers for a Woman's Life

 Heavenly Father, I read a story in the Bible where one brother tried to bring Jesus into the middle of a disagreement he was having with his brother; the man wanted Jesus to take sides, but Jesus refused. He told them to work it out together. We can all think of times when family members are not getting along. When this happens, it makes everyone uncomfortable; the family is split apart. Family gatherings are not pleasant or well attended. The laughter and joy are gone; love for one another is forgotten. Lord, the Bible instructs us to find common ground, to be reasonable and work out our issues as quickly as possible. We are not to let anger fester so the devil can take control but remember, not only our love for one another, but the unconditional love You have for us even though we are flawed and sinful. When I become aware of family members that are not getting along, help me to be a peacemaker and not someone who fans the flame. Help me remember to pray for the feuding parties and encourage each one to be forgiving and have a receptive not hardened heart. I pray for peace between family members. I pray they desire to seek—not so much who is right or wrong—but seek Your will and solutions and know that You are not pleased when we cannot get along and allow the enemy—who is a dividing force—to persuade and influence. Today, I especially pray for [name] and [name] that they may once again enjoy peace harmony, laughter and good relationship. Protect us from discord and division in our families, Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray.

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus replied, “Man who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”—Luke 12:13-15 

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contented at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life—Philippians 4:2-3

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you—Ephesians 4:32

Heavenly Father it is said that the effect of tea is cooling and as a beverage helps us cultivate the kind of self-restraint that benefits us in other areas of our lives. Father, as much as we want to take a sip of our steaming, aromatic brew before it’s cooled down a bit, we know that doing so will only result in the inside of our mouth and tongue being burned; wise and patient people learn to wait until it's safe. If we want to quench our thirst, then hot teas aren't our best choice; they call for sipping, contemplation and nurturing. Hot teas teach us patience, self-control and self-restraint much like You are doing when You design our life-lessons, allow trials, challenges and difficulties to come our way. Thank You God, for the way You use the everyday things in life to introduce coping skills, expand our understanding, give us wisdom, and change our approach to life's problems. Thank You for the lessons we learn through something as simple and tasty as tea that not only contain healing and medicinal properties but call us to a stillness that’s both physically, emotionally, and spiritually calming, teaching us how to cultivate a patient and quiet soul. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Promise

Be still and know that I am God—Psalm 46:10

On each side of the river stood the tree of life. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations—Revelation 22:2

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him—Psalm 34:8

 Lord Jesus, Beautiful Friend, thank You for the reminders You have provided in Your life-giving word, so, whenever I come and sit with You with my Bible in front of me, I am comforted by Your truths that bring healing and life to my weary spirit and soul; they refresh and empower me. Thank You for reminding me of truths like:

I was made whole in the womb. While human companionship is good—and the Father has called and designed me for community—however, I do not need another human to complete me; I am already a whole person and enough.

Thank You for the reminder that it’s not what I put on the outside of my body that makes me beautiful in Your sight; it’s what’s on the inside. I could have all the fabulous, designer clothing on the market; I could wear all the best and most expensive jewelry my budget can afford, but none of that will make me more attractive; none of that can make up for what my character lacks or a bad attitude. None of that can help heal my sin condition; only You can do that Jesus.

Thank You for the reminder that I am smart (enough); I am strong enough. I can handle my life, I can make wise decisions, I can endure the trials and challenges that arise in my life. The Father has promised to send wisdom to me from heaven and the Spirit gives me the strength I need for each day, each challenge. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

Lord, I’m not even touching the surface of Your truths and promises here, but they are enough to get me started in my day; they are enough to hold me firmly when the enemy of my emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing starts his nagging whispers. 

Thank You for empowering me through Your Word and the truth within it. I pray, help me share what I know with someone who doesn’t they are made whole by God, beautiful in God’s sight, and made strong through Jesus. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

And you have been made complete in Christ, who is head over every ruler and authority—Colossians 2:10

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight—I Peter 3:3-4

I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me—Philippians 4:13

  Heavenly Father, it takes so little to be above average. Maybe that’s why we’re in awe of the Proverbs Thirty-One woman in the Bible. It’s not that she does anything we cannot do; we all—male and female—have it in us to be productive and conscientious in our work and character; we all have it in us to be above average. Something as simple as being a person who does what we say we will do, or living up to the promises we make can make us above average. We may be surprised at the number of people who don’t expect people to fulfill their promises or show up when they say they will, provide support when they have promised to, or execute something with excellency and proficiency. It’s my desire to be a person of integrity. Not just do better about keeping my promises but in my character overall. The Apostle Paul wrote on numerous occasions that we should strive for excellency. That alone will make me above average. Help me as I work on my character and do those things that are intentional and trustworthy. Help me practice integrity in all I say and do so my life is pleasing to You and a sweet-smelling fragrance, not an offensive odor. Help me strive for that excellency in the things I do and what I say and in my character that Paul wrote is achievable and within my capability as a child of God filled with the excellent Spirit of God. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen   

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank—Proverbs 22:29

Then, this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him—Daniel 6:3

Many women do noble things but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate—Proverbs 31:29-31 

  God, in Your Word we learn what to do and what not to do. Every time I read the Bible I either learn something new, or I am reminded of something I already knew and maybe forgot or stored away in my mind. After reading the story of Rebekah and her sons Jacob and Esau in the Old Testament (Gen. 27:1-29), the deception and estrangement of those two brothers and tearing of that entire family, I learn it’s not good to favor one child over another and that showing favoritism can wreak havoc in family relationships. Someone always ends up being emotionally damaged and hurt. Parents and all humans are flawed and don’t always do the right thing, thank You for working with us to change our flawed and sinful characters, God. Thank You, especially, that Your character is flawless and with You there is no favoritism; all are treated equally, all are corrected and disciplined, all have blessings and rewards, and none are favored over another. I pray, keep me reminded of this if I’m ever favoring one member of my family over another. Rebekah learned the hard way not to favor one child over another but more importantly she learned it’s not good to resort to deception or to manipulate outcomes. Let me learn from Rebekah and others what to do and what not to do so I can live a God-pleasing life. Help me to be a mender and not a wounder; a person who brings people together and not tears them apart; someone who does not manipulate outcomes but trusts in You and Your plans at all times. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

For the Lord your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed—Deuteronomy 10:17 

Then Peter replied, ‘I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right—Acts 10:34-35

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God—Micah 6:8

  Heavenly Father, just like good manners help make a tea-gathering enjoyable: serving hot tea from the right (or left if the person is left-handed), providing generous size napkins for guests to keep fingers from getting too sticky or wiping crumbs from the mouth, setting the table with knives and forks if open-faced finger sandwiches are being served, avoiding subjects of politics or religion are just a few of the manners guests and hosts should follow so everyone can have an enjoyable tea time. 

The older I become the more I appreciate and have learned how to use good manners to my advantage: A simple please and thank you go a long way. My good manners are not a mask for my [true] feelings; they do not hide secret resentment or bitterness. They are an effective tool, opening doors, gaining respect from others; they are a quiet power that turns strangers into friends and challenges into opportunities. Being courteous and mannerable are not beneath me, they reflect the good You have knit into my being. When I use good manners, I am a reflection of the Spirit’s mannerable nature as He assists believers in their spiritual journey. May I always take a page from the Sprit’s book of manners and practice them with those I live with, work with, and worship with. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and show perfect courtesy toward all people—Titus 3:2

Show proper respect to everyone, love he family of believers, fear God—I Peter 2:17

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone—Colossians 4:6  

 God, thank You for each day. Thank You that each season, just like in nature, is different. We cannot predict what will happen from one season of life to the next nor can we assume because one season or time of life was uneventful and smooth-sailing, assures that the next season will be the same. You are constantly teaching us that the point of the hard days is not just to move us to the good days or vice versa. Through Your Word and promises we are reminded that human ambition and planning are important, however according to Your Word they are secondary to Your divine purposes. Life teaches us humility and through Your faithfulness and steadfastness You teach us what it means to put our trust in You and the need to align our desires with Your will. Whether pleasant or difficult, every one of my days is known by You and You destined me even before my life began; my future, just like my past, is in your hands and is purposed. I may have many ideas concerning Your plan for my life but only Your plans for me will succeed. As I approach each new day may I be open to the changes You send my way or allow in my life. May I flow with you so I can grow with You, Lord.  

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

A person may have many ideas concerning God’s plan his life, but only the designs of his purpose will succeed in the end—Proverbs 19:21  

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps—Proverbs 16:9

The Lord of hosts has shown: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand—Isaiah 14:24 

with him, and Jesus went to his house and sat down to eat…Jesus spoke up and said to him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” I came into your home, and you gave me no water for my feet…You did not welcome me with a kiss…You provided no olive oil for my head—Luke 7:36,40,44,45,46

Do not forget to show hospitality to stranger, for by doing some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it—Hebrews 13:2

  Jesus, some women—like Martha in the Bible—seem to have been born with a strong gifting of hospitality. They are not content for you to just sit in their home with nothing in front of you: a plate of homemade cookies, or freshly baked cake and delicious tea or coffee. They will ask you a thousand times is there anything you need; can they bring you anything to make you more comfortable…Thank You God, for these beautiful souls that live to make others comfortable and feeling welcomed and special. I’m reminded today of the Bible story where You visited the home of Simon the Pharisee—who by the way—wasn’t very hospitable. He didn’t offer to wash Your feet or make You comfortable. You pointed out that he was inhospitable and ungracious toward You. Thank You for those who have a knack of making others feel welcome and special; today I’m especially thankful for [name] and her beautiful gift of hospitality. Not everyone will be a Martha or a [name], but we can all cultivate a spirit of hospitality. The hospitality we show to someone may be the only kindness they experience on their journey or in their present life circumstances. As the Scriptures remind us, we should entertain all as though we are entertaining the Prince of Peace and the King of kings. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality—Romans 12:13

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him—Luke 10:38

A Pharisee invited Jesus to have dinner with him, and Jesus went to his house and sat down to eat…Jesus spoke up and said to him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” I came into your home, and you gave me no water for my feet…You did not welcome me with a kiss…You provided no olive oil for my head—Luke 7:36,40,44,45,46

Do not forget to show hospitality to stranger, for by doing some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it—Hebrews 13:2

Jesus, in our journey of faith, we often notice that life can get overwhelming, and we sometimes forget to appreciate the beauty of now. Our brains are always on the next thing, the next day, the next task, making it difficult to live in the present. Living in the present is about accepting and cherishing what God has given us in this moment; recognizing that His grace is revealed to us day by day. We are called to celebrate life itself and give thanks for the little things. Things as simple as the beautiful sunset or a kind word from someone or something funny that helps us share a laugh together. The more things I have on my to-do list, the more things that demand my attention, the harder it is to live in the moment; the more blessings I miss. I know You have things You want to whisper to me, things You want to share with me throughout my day, but I can't hear or see or know them when I am rushing past the moment; already living in the future. Something wonderful happens when I read my Bible daily. Verses like “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matt. 6:34), bring me back to a place of peace and help me focus on today so I can experience joy and fulfillment right where I am. When I am tempted to get caught up in this world’s frenzy, rushing from one thing to the next, biting off more than I can chew and rushing ahead needlessly, help me slow down and enjoy this present moment so I can experience all the blessings, peace, joy, and balance You have made available to me right now. Amen     

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!”—Psalm 118:24    

 Dear God, You are my strength. You make my footsteps firm and steady like the doe’s feet when she is standing on uneven places. I thank You for being my Rock and my steady ground. You have promised to make my feet like the feet of a doe—swift, sure and unshaken by the rough patches of life. Lord, when the road feels steep and the winds of challenge blow against me, and all around me looks uncertain, lift me to the high places You have prepared. Give me grace to walk with confidence, courage to face the unknown, and faith to trust You are leading me. Let my heart remain steadfast, my spirit unbroken, and my steps guided by Your wisdom. May my life, attitude and countenance reflect Your beauty and strength so that others may see Your light in me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

He makes my feet like hinds’ feet [able to stand firmly and tread safely on paths of testing and trouble]; He sets me [securely] upon my high places—Psalm 18:33  

 Jesus, I ask for Your divine guidance today. I pray, lead me with Your wisdom. Speak to my heart with clarity. Open doors that align with Your will and close any door that would lead me astray or take me from Your path ordained for me. Help me to trust not in my own understanding, but in Your perfect plan. Open my eyes to see Your revealed answers and solutions to my problems in Your Word. Even when I feel unsure, remind me that You are already working behind the scenes and just because I do not see it [yet] does not mean You are not at work. I praise You God, You are my faithful God and You will never leave me; therefore, any feelings of being abandoned by You or having to walk this journey on my own, or figure things out on my own are false. I place my steps, my life, and my future in Your hands knowing that You will direct me with love and Your purpose for me are always good and never harmful. In Your loving and gracious name I pray. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight—Proverbs 3:5-6

Dear God, at times I have difficulty making decisions. Sometimes I feel stuck and cannot move forward. I know there are people who make a [nice] living helping others make decisions. They approach decision-making logically and without the emotions we sometimes have when trying to decide something about our life or situation. Decision-making experts advise we can do something as simple as toss a coin because we can know just from our reaction about the results which way our heart wants to go in that situation. We can also consider what we’re aiming for, which is approaching the problem with the end in mind. We can determine we will not live our life according to other people’s opinions, and we can default to action; meaning any action is better than no action at all. Lord, I thank You that I don’t have to hire anyone to help me make decisions for my life, but I can simply turn to You in prayer, I can open Your Word for guidance and when needed, I can talk to trusted-God-led and filled friends and family. I am blessed that you have sent Your Holy Spirit to lead and guide me into all truth which also includes helping me know which way is best for me to go. He is an excellent powerful heavenly source when it comes to making tough decisions! Thank You for promising to pour out Your wisdom to me whenever I ask. Thank You for giving me important life-skills that help me out of analysis-paralysis and into a healthy, life-giving, life-supporting action. In Jesus’ name I pray, praise, and thank You. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you—Psalm 32:8

Jesus You are the light of the world! For thirty-three years You never lost sight of who You are. No amount of disrespect, disregard, belittling, or bashing could cause You to have doubts or live any differently than what the heavenly Father sent and purposed You to do or be. No matter how much those who couldn’t understand, see, or receive the fullness of Your essence, You never forgot and lived every day of Your life in this knowledge. I have also been wondrously and purposely made. Because I am Yours, cleansed by the purifying waters of Holy Baptism and made new by the blood of the Lamb, I have those same qualities. I am also a light in this dark world, and my kindness and courage can inspire those around me. Because You give me strength and remind me daily of my purpose, I am able to live boldly in my purpose today, knowing I am deeply loved and endlessly capable. As one of Your brightly burning lights in this dark and troubled world I can be radiant! I will not be diminished or take on a spirit of being defeated or less than what I am or have been created to be. In Your name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life—John 8:12

 Dear Jesus, in today’s fast-paced world, stress has become like a badge of honor. We see stress as a sign that we’re being productive, busy, or striving for success. It’s not uncommon for the subject of stress to dominate our conversations with friends; talking about how stressed or stressed-out we are.  Stress is a natural part of life but when it goes unchecked it can take a toll on us. When my stress isn’t handled in the right way it can cause issues in my body, my mind, my emotions, my relationships and my spiritual wellbeing. Stress can impact my work, my time off, and my worship. Stress, in and of itself isn’t sin, but it can lead to sin. My stress can lead to my doing and saying things I later regret. Your word tells me to bring my stress to You. I’m not supposed to carry it around until my chest becomes tight, my mind is racing all over the place and I can’t think clearly, or I’m constantly fatigued. Jesus, I pray, may I have the ability to master my stress so it doesn’t master me; please give me the power to respond differently to life’s problems. Help me find the balance I need so I can move through my stress in healthy ways. May I always remember that my well-being matters just as much as my to-do list. When I take an honest assessment of my life I can see how I need to have a different approach; feeling frazzled or mentally drained doesn’t need to be my normal. Help me find a healthy, inner balance that calms me inside and out. The next time I’m sipping coffee or tea with my friends my conversation won’t be about how stressed out I am, it will be how powerfully and wondrously You changed my outlook, opened my eyes and showed me a new way to live out this life so I can feel like a new woman! In the name of my stress-free Jesus I pray, Amen.  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires you, but you must master it—Genesis 4:7      

 God, I have no reason to fear the things this world or even what individuals throw my way today. I have no need to fret, become anxious or worry today. I don’t need to turn inward to figure things out or solve my problems no matter how complex or big they are. I can take my cares and distress and place them on You heavenly Father. I can be assured and comforted that You can handle them for me just as You have done for those who put their trust in You from the beginning of time. The certainty of Your help and presence fills me with peace, calms me, and makes me feel secure. I can witness this truth to others by my actions and my words. I am not like a kite without a string or like a ship without an anchor. I am grounded in Your love, and Your hand holds me steadfast and gives me the balance I need to live this day confidently and in a healthy way. As long as I keep my eyes on You, I have no need to be shaken, feel defeated or overwhelmed. I praise and thank You Lord for Your promises of protection and assistance. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I keep my eyes always on the LORD. with him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest securely—Psalm 16:8-9    

 Heavenly Father, it’s amazing all the things I receive when I spend time in Your presence. You are truly my source of strength, the One in whom I have a never-ending supply of everything I need in my day, my week, my life. This world offers many paths and places for people to receive direction and feel strong, but it’s from You I draw strength to get through the difficulties and challenges I face. I am refreshed; I find that even in my weakest moments I am radiant and strong! Through Your love I am inspired. You always bring out the best in me! I am able to walk in confidence and motivated. Thank You for renewing and refreshing me daily. Thank you for the hope and peace I always come away with after spending time in Your presence. It takes nothing more than turning my face toward You, opening my heart and spirit to Yours, and Your essence fills me. I can breathe in Your beautiful fragrance of grace. As I linger in Your presence, I find an endless supply of all I need. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength—Philippians 4:13   

Tender-Loving God, how many fond memories we can have of holding the hand of a parent or grandparent growing up. We felt so special and loved; our little hand tucked so tenderly in their bigger, stronger hands! Something about handholding that made us feel cared for and protected. It’s sad that as we go through life and continue in adulthood, handholding gets left behind as though it’s only for children. If the male we are dating or married to—boyfriends and husbands—don’t see it as too feminine or girly—then it remains with us, but others may not be as comfortable, and handholding gets left at childhood or dating. Thank You Father for Your promise to hold our hand, no matter how old we are. Thank You that we are never too grown for You to take us by the hand. Your handholding isn’t just for girls or fully grown women, but for everyone, young and old, male and female. With our hand in Yours, we can regain that feeling of security and intimate connection. Thank You for “getting” us as women, God, and for knowing exactly what we need in order to feel loved, protected, and covered. Thank You for the many places in the Bible that highlight Your support and guidance in our lives, reassuring us that You are always with us. Thank You for the times I sense with my spirit how You have gently yet firmly taken me by the hand to lead and guide or comfort me. I rejoice that I am Your daughter and will always be a child in Your kingdom. Amen   

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:     

For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold on your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.”—Isaiah 41:13

Gracious God, nearly everyone I know looks forward to Friday. So many can be heard saying, “Thank God it’s Friday!” And we all know what T.G.I.F. means. I thank You for all You’ve helped me accomplish this past week. I look forward to the weekend and pray it’s a time where my soul is refreshed, my peace is restored, and my mind renewed. I have a habit of focusing on the things I couldn’t accomplish, focusing on the things I didn’t get around to. Those incomplete tasks or matters will weigh heavily on my heart and mind and keep me from rejoicing over the good I was able to do. Thank you for Your word that counsels me to release each day to You. Thank You for Your word that reminds me I’m only human, one woman with limitations, and I can’t possibly cover all the bases or take care of everything all at once or all the time. Thank You for Your word that releases my guilt about those things I didn’t get to or fell short. Your comfort and assurance help me feel Your face turning toward me and smiling upon me. This Friday I can even hear You whispering, “Daughter go in peace, enjoy your weekend, give yourself permission to take a holy pause!” In Jesus’ name I pray, praise, and thank You. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted I the earth—Psalm 46:10

 Heavenly Father what a relief and comfort to be reminded daily that I am a work in progress. Sometimes I’ll jokingly say this after I’ve made a mistake or missed the mark with something and get a good chuckle at this very biblical truth. But when You point me to this reminder in Your word You are not joking. You want me to remember I am always evolving and being transformed into Your image and likeness. And sometimes that transformation can only come through our trials, struggles, and yes even the mistakes I make as I walk this journey with You in faith. I pray, as I soak this in, may I remember to remind others that as Your daughters whom You have created so wondrously, purposely, and whom You love unconditionally, may we always keep in mind that “a-work-in-progress is something that has begun but isn’t finished yet; it’s on the way to being done”, and even as sinful beings that always fall short of Your glory in some way we continue to be Your beautiful masterpiece in progress and every trial and mistake is refining our beauty and strength! In the name of Jesus. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ—Philippians 1:6     

 Thank you for this very transparent story about our Old Testament sister Naomi. Through Naomi’s story we can see ourselves today as women of faith. After experiencing great losses in her life Naomi began feeling bitter in her spirit; she even blamed You for taking away the fullness of her life. Heavenly Father, it’s not hard to view our losses, trials, suffering, and dark times as punishment or feeling Your hand is against us. Like us, Naomi did the best she could caring for her loved ones, but loss and death are also part of the human condition. And as each one left, she felt bitter and became hardened in her spirit to the point it was hard to see Your grace and love were still with her. We can have empathy toward Naomi knowing it only takes a series of unfortunate events and losses in our life to make us question your goodness. Forgive us, O Lord! Help us, when life goes in a direction we don’t understand, to remember You’ll never withhold Your love for us and although our earthly lives can have tragedies there is always the triumph Jesus secured for us on the Cross of Calvary that binds us to You and You to us. As Your daughters we are never without Your love, care, concern, and forgiveness. We are humbled by suffering and trials and sometimes we lash out against You unfairly. Thank You Father for always meet our bitterness with understanding, patience and forgiveness. Thank you for refreshing and restoring us and opening our heart to rejoice in Your perfect plans for us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

So the two of them went on until they came to Bethlehem. And when they came to Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them. And the women said, “Is this Naomi?” She said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went away full, and the LORD has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi, when the LORD has testified against me and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me?”—Ruth 1:19-21    

Jesus, I declare peace over my spirit today. I declare I am a peaceful and calm woman. I do not get caught up in drama. I do not entertain a spirit of chaos, but as I am attached to You, I am filled with, guided, and guarded by Your heavenly peace. Peace is one of my strong points and I use it to my advantage. My peace sets me apart from the chaotic and drama kings and queens. May I recognize, rejoice in, and celebrate the inner peace and calm You provide for my spirit and that has come as a fruit of being in intimate relationship with You. Even while the world and others around me are filled with chaos I can stand still and be guided by Your peace and calm. Because I am peaceful, I enjoy certain blessings and rewards others do not. I treasure my peace that comes through You and know I bring peace everywhere I go; that is one way others can know You are within me. In Your name, O Prince of Peace I pray. Amen 

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. It is not as the world gives that I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, and do not let it be afraid—John 14:27 

 Heavenly Father, I’m just beginning this new week and it’s a good time to remind myself that my tongue is more powerful than any other part of my body. My tongue is able to give comfort, affirm, or encourage others but it’s also capable of cutting someone up the same as if I had a sharp butcher knife in my hand. My tongue can sing a beautiful song of worship and praise that glorifies You and it can also carry mean-spirited messages that wound the spirit and soul. With my tongue I can complement a girlfriend, classmate, co-worker, neighbor, sibling, or but I can also gossip about her when she’s out of earshot. When this tongue is not disciplined and subjected to the Holy Spirit it can take on a life of its own and cause all kinds of chaos and hurtful feelings. The devastation my tongue can cause can leave me and others stunned at what came out. Give me strength to control this tiny member of my body Lord, it may be small, but it has potential to be deadly and harm others. Thankfully, it can also do good things like lift others up and praise You! Kinda like the Apostle James says, Thank You, Father, I’m not helpless. I have power to control this mighty instrument that was created to praise You and build others up. Today and always may the words of my mouth and the attitude of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Yahweh, my rock, and my redeemer Lord (Psalm 19:14). 

Inspiration For Today’s Prayer

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to your needs, that it may beneficial to those who listen.—Ephesians 4:19 

 Heavenly Father, creating a nurturing environment is a beautiful part of being a homemaker. As women, we are given the unique ability to foster love, safety, and comfort in our homes. Like most women, I want a home that is beautiful, but I have also discovered that no matter how beautiful my furnishings are, if my home does not have the right kind of spirit, it won’t matter how lovely my material things are. I pray for a home that is filled with caring and warmth; a home that is warm and welcoming, comfortable and freeing. I pray for a home that reflects the talents You have blessed me with and a home that reflects my unique personality; a home environment that is nurturing of relationships. I pray for a home that feels refreshing and helps renew the soul when I and others spend time there. Thank You Father, that I don’t have to have a lot of money to make my home beautiful. My home can be a sanctuary and a place of security, trust, and comfort even on a shoestring budget. My home can be a place where dreams are nurtured and souls are reenergized. Thank You for showing me that real joy and a truly beautiful home do not come because of riches or how much money I have to spend on furnishings, but from the beautiful spirit You have already knit into me. I already have everything I need to make my home beautiful! In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

*Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment…Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight—I Peter 3:3,4

 Jesus, there wasn’t anyone You didn’t welcome and accept; even sharing meals with sinners. To this day You still don’t turn anyone away no matter who they are or where they have come from Your arms are open wide and You gladly sit with them. Sometimes, Jesus when we are threatened by someone the first thing we do is start to malign them—just like the Pharisees and teachers of the law did you. They had no need to complain against You. You hadn’t come to intrude on them. You had Your own purpose.  Lord Jesus, whenever I encounter those I feel a little threatened, maybe another woman who has natural gifts and talents that I don’t have, or seems to be more popular than I am, or has achieved a higher level of education, or I think is prettier, etc. Point out to me when I am being catty and complaining against her for no reason at all, other than feeling threatened. Don’t let me be that [kind of] woman who tears others down or finds a need to diminish or put them down in the presence of others. May I always keep in mind that the talents, beauty, skills and gifts of another does not diminish or make me less, like her, I have been fearfully and wondrously made by my heavenly Father, and there is room for all of us. Keep my heart pure Lord, and my mouth even purer so my tongue is only used to build up, encourage, and compliment. In that way I will always please and glorify You. In Your Holy and Gracious name I pray. Amen     

*Inspiration for Today’s Prayer: Luke 15:1-2

The tax collectors and sinners all came to listen to Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law began to complain: “Look, this man welcomes sinners and even eats with them.” 

 Jesus, to many You were an enigma; they could not understand You. You did not fit their norms. You were not concerned about keeping the status quo or going with the “same flow”. You did not nod in approval when things weren’t right. You weren’t afraid to stand out or be different. Sometimes, Lord, I get so focused on fitting in, that I find myself blending in and I lose the joy and purpose of my uniqueness from God in the process. I rejoice that I have been chosen by my heavenly Father to live in distinction. My saltiness is purposed. No one else can bring what I bring. I am a unique being, a woman of distinction and everywhere I go I can make a difference and add something good and wonderful and powerful that would be absent if I were not there. May I never lose the saltiness You have assigned to me! In Your Name that is above all names I pray. Amen   

*Scripture Inspiration: Luke 14:34-35

“Salt is good, but if it loses its salty taste, you cannot make it salty again. It is no good for the soil or for manure; it is thrown away.”    

 Loving and Gracious God, thank You for the small victories and quiet successes that fill my days. Open my eyes to see the successes I ordinarily overlook or look past or think they are so small they don’t matter. Help me to see the beauty in every step forward, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. I don’t need to wait for others to celebrate my successes and victories, teach me to pause and celebrate the progress I’ve made, acknowledging that each moment of growth is of Your guidance and grace. I pray, grant me a heart of gratitude, that I may never overlook the blessing of victories You place in my path. Remind me that even the smallest triumphs are part of a greater journey, and with Your strength, I can continue to move forward. May I not be so locked on the “bigger” or “final” outcome that I miss the joy of the process. In the name of my loving and guiding Savior, I pray. Amen       

*Scripture Inspiration: Genesis 39:3

“The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master…his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did…” 

Jesus, filled with Your power and by Your Spirit I have the ability and power to shift the atmosphere. I have been filled by Your Spirit and instructed through Your Word, and I can read the spiritual temperature and sense of what’s going on beneath the surface and I know exactly what to do when I am confronted with chaos, wrong-thinking, negativity and fear. I am a woman who is guided by Your Spirit and able to recognize when You are calling me to exercise my independent and Spirit-guided thought process. I am mature enough to know I don’t need to go the way of the crowd just to keep others happy and I pray to be that person who speaks the word of truth boldly—though always in a loving and firm way—keeps a level head when others have lost theirs. I can introduce calmness in chaotic situations, and exercise faith to move out, go, and do when everyone else is hesitant, cowering and frozen in fear. Jesus, I can make a difference today just by showing up and entering a space with the sense of who I am and to Whom I belong. In Your powerful name I pray, Amen 

*Scripture Inspiration: Ephesians 6:12

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”

 Lord of Life, nearly every woman I know has at least one or several unfinished projects around her home: an unfinished cleaning project, an unfinished sewing or craft project, an unfinished writing project, an unfinished self-improvement venture…Sometimes we have made plans to read our Bible from cover to cover and never get past the first few books. Over the years it’s not difficult for our unfinished projects to mount up. Our intentions are good when we start them, but other things come in the way, we run out of “free-time” or sometimes they end up being more costly or time-consuming than we realized. Thank You, Jesus for considering everything it would take to go to the cross and die for my sins; salvation for me was not an unfinished work and coming home to heaven at the end of this life is not a question or hope, but a blessed assurance. I pray to have Your level of discipline for my life, and I pray to be able to look at the things I plan to undertake and count the full cost and requirements wisely before I take them on. When I learn to do this not only will I have less guilt and greater mental peace, that special place in my home that holds my unfinished projects won’t be so full.

Scripture Inspiration: Luke 14:28-30 

   Lord Jesus, the Scriptures remind me “A faithful [woman] will abound with blessings (Prov.28:20). It’s a passage I visit often. I know when any of us are faithful in little You will make us faithful in much or plenty (Luke 16:10). I pray don’t let the fact that I don’t have much expendable income, or a large size home, or the newest trend in clothing, or the most up-to-date car with all the bells and whistles, or the ability to travel to far-off or exotic places, or the fact that I have physical challenges or limitations, or that I am too young or too old, be an excuse to not enjoy my life. I pray to make the most of what I have and find ways to be creative on a tight budget. I will stop using excuses to-not-do something based on what I don’t have to justify my unhappiness and, instead, I will take what I have been given and find ways to open up my world and have as much fun as possible. When I open my physical and spiritual eyes, I will see that You have given me more than I could ever thank You for; I am extremely blessed with a bright and resourceful mind, and I can learn to make lemonade out of lemons if I need to! In the name of Jesus my Savior and Inspiration for living a good life on a shoestring, I pray. Amen                 

 Holy God and Lord, today I rejoice as I realize I’ve made it through my week. That’s been no little task. I’m so happy to have the weekend in front of me and the week behind me. Today I’m even more aware of the truth that all week I have overcome every obstacle that presented itself and I have managed to rise above every doubt that crept up; those inner doubts that started out as seeds so tiny they can barely be recognized but are always stirring behind the scenes, in my heart and mind. I have discovered I am much stronger than I’ve thought and way more intelligent and resourceful than I tend to give myself credit for. I’ve been reminded and I celebrate more than anything that me plus You are an awesome, amazing, unstoppable and undefeatable team! In the Holy name of Jesus, I celebrate You and I praise You Father. Amen          

  Savior, Jesus, I pray, whether I am wearing my sexiest pair of Stilettos or kicking it in a well-worn pair of Birkenstocks, that I will remember to walk boldly into my day and boldly into my life and the challenges that present themselves. I pray to remember every minute of this day that You did not give me a spirit of timidity or fear and I don’t need to cower or shrink back no matter how big or strong or powerful my enemy is—I have You on my side, I am a daughter of the Most High God, made precious in His sight—and You knit into my being a spirit of confidence and boldness, and as some Bible translations say, I have a spirit of self-love. I am not a weakling nor lightweight, but I am Your beloved daughter shaped for this moment and up to the challenges that come my way. In Your Most Holy and confident name I pray. Amen     

 Holy God, I don’t know what it is about Wednesday, but it always reminds me that I have survived 100% of my very worst days! That’s a great feeling! Wednesday also reminds me that since I’ve managed to survive 100% of my worst days, that I can keep going, I can keep on surviving, and more than that, I can be victorious through my worst days. I refuse to have a defeatist mindset! I refuse to let the trials and difficulties, the dark days of this life get me down and keep me down. I refuse to let the wicked of this world and the wicked one who rules the hearts of so many in this world, take away my joy or determine my strength or successes. I’m so happy to belong to You Jesus! So happy that, in Your strength I have strength. So happy that I can make a difference for so many in this life! I praise You Jesus for Wednesday and every other day of the week. I thank and praise You that I have “woman” strength, heart, and purpose. I am designed and have been fashioned by You to make an impact. Today, somebody’s life is going to be changed because they have been in my presence. In Your holy name I pray. Amen     

Heavenly Father, what a blessing that each new day holds its own opportunities and paths to choose from. I open my eyes, and I have the choice to carry happiness or bitterness in my soul, peace or inner chaos, misery or open my arms and heart to hope. I can either feel the freedom forgiving others brings or die a little each day by holding onto bitterness and pain. 

Thank You for personal growth and expanding my horizons. When I choose qualities such as confidence, hope, happiness, and positivity I experience new life in my spirit. Your Word says, “The old has gone the new has come” (Isa. 43:19). As Your daughter, wondrously and tenderly made I can welcome the “new” You have planned for me and my life. I can look forward to each new day, and I can take new paths that promise new adventures and opportunities. 

Thank You God for every new day that gives way to new blessings. Knowing the possibilities that lay before me I welcome today. I’ll live today with a new mindset. I am ready to embrace today. In Jesus’ holy name I pray. Amen         

Heavenly Father, sometimes the challenges I face in this life and on my journey as a woman can be unique to my gender. I pray to remember every challenge that presents itself in my day, during my week, and in my life doesn’t have to be viewed as something bad or negative. I don’t have to always think it’s the devil trying to stop me or Satan making an attack on my life, or a force of evil trying to prevent me from reaching my goals. Instead, may I view challenges for what they are: opportunities for self-discovery and for me to experience personal, emotional, mental, relational, financial, intellectual, physical and spiritual growth. I do not need to be stumped nor discouraged by challenges but use them to my advantage and increase in strength. In the holy and all-sufficient name of Jesus I pray. Amen     

And Adam named his wife Eve, because she would be the mother of all the living—Genesis 3:20

God of all creation, in the beginning You, Jesus and the Holy Spirit collaborated to create humans in Your image. First Adam was made from dust, and then Eve was formed out of Adam’s side. Adam named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all the living. Eve was the perfect helpmeet for Adam and the perfect one to become the nurturer of all. Nurturing others is a quality and nature I share with the first woman Eve, and unless we are walking closely with You, we cannot have the perspective or balance we need to have.

Through the creation story we are reminded of the incredible significance of life and lineage that You have woven into the fabric of our being. The role Eve was given as the mother of all the living, and as a nurturer in no way diminishes or reduces her importance and wholeness. As women—we don’t have to have children or a spouse to be a nurturer. Married, single, young, old nurturing others can come easily and naturally. Nurturing and encouraging others for their growth and development is a quality and nature I not only share with the first woman Eve, but one I share with You. I’m proud of this Lord, and happy to fulfill this role You have assigned me!

I pray, as I nurture others, help me to also practice healthy self-care so I don’t neglect my own needs which can be so easy to do. I want to leave a legacy of love that will be passed down for generations. I especially want to have a healthy impact on the women in my life so they can know the incredible contributions mothers, daughters, and sisters can have in their families, their communities, their churches and the world. 

May I always recognize I am precious and unique, formed intentionally by You. Empower me to fulfill the role of nurturing others with compassion and grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen    

 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that--I Timothy 6:8

Dear God, 

Protect me from the trap of being materialistic. Take away my focus on acquiring things. Sometimes I feel surrounded by those who think their happiness depends on how much stuff they have and, at times I am influenced by the materialism of others and find myself caught up in their worldliness but when I look closer I can see how unhappy they are deep in their spirit, feeling their life is lacking all because they may not have all the possessions they long for, and I am shaken from my stupor. After all, how many shoes, clothes, cars, houses, or titles can a woman have before she is truly happy? How much can I put into my home before I feel satisfied? When the desire for more is not put into check by gratitude then we can be swallowed up and consumed. 

Lord, help me to be content with the little I have. Help me to find happiness in the simple things of life. Don’t let my disposition or peace become dependent on what or how much I have. I already know when I leave this world I cannot bring anything with me. The accumulation of things is not only a waste of time and resources, but also a waste of energy that could go towards things that are more eternal and beneficial.   

I know You will test me from time to time about this so I pray for a pure heart that is free and unburdened from materialism and always wanting more. May I make peace with what I have so I can live at peace with myself, others, and most importantly, be at peace with You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen    

 Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, eve not the end of the age”—Matthew 28:19-20

Dear Jesus, at one time, just reading your parting command to Your followers to make disciples of all nations and people, would have sent me into a tizzy. I would have made all kinds of excuses why this didn’t mean me. Honestly, at one time I would have been looking for a reason to be excused from Your command to disciple others.   

Today, I am excited and encouraged to know I can participate in making disciples and enlarging the kingdom of God on earth and for eternity; discipling doesn’t need to be hard or complicated. At one time, I didn’t feel very confident about this. I concentrated too much on my deficits. At times I felt as though I didn’t know the Bible well enough, that I didn’t have much—if anything—to offer other women, that my schedule was already overcrowded and I was at my max. I would have offered that my own life wasn’t in order and how could I disciple anyone else when my own life was such a mess.

Thank You for teaching me through example Jesus, that I don’t need to be perfect, my finances don’t have to be perfect, that even though my life has things going on, I still have so much to offer, I am capable of passing on what I have learned in life. Thank you, that I’m no longer intimidated by the more seasoned or prolific. I pray that You will lead the women to me that I can disciple and in my own creative way. I don’t have to do it like anyone else; just be myself.

Jesus, I’m willing to share my life with other women. I know the more I am willing to share my real life with other women, the more effective our discipleship times become, and the more women will see You through me. 

Thank You, that today I know deep in my heart I am a natural discipler; I have nothing to fear or be anxious about. Discipling women comes naturally to me because You help me keep-it-real. Amen                 

"I am both a masterpiece and a work in progress"—Ephesians 2:10

Dear God, sometimes my emotions feel overwhelming. I might have difficulty catching my breath, or, at times, I feel as though everything is collapsing around me. I am feeling overwhelmed, anxious, painted in a corner, panicky…

When that happens, I've learned to lightly touch my fingertips together, feel my heartbeat through them, take deep breaths so my lungs fill up, and whisper to myself words of affirmation. I give myself permission to feel my feelings. And remind myself that I am allowed to feel feelings. I am allowed to have emotions. I am in control of my emotions even when my emotions are uncomfortable. I remind myself that even if others judge me because of my emotions, I don't judge myself. And I’m okay.

Lord, I've discovered that even if my emotions are strong, I can welcome them and open my heart to receive them with kindness. I don’t have to live by anyone else’s design of how I should be. My strong emotions don’t indicate I’m not handling things well or that I’m being childish or immature. Emotions are just tools I have been given, and I do not need to be fearful of them, or fearful of feeling their intensity.  

When my emotions are running high, I can be at peace knowing I have the right tools to handle them and when I stop and breathe even my uncomfortable emotions will simmer down and my spirit will become quieted, like the clouds that pass in the sky. 

I've discovered that when I give myself over into Your care, God, I am alright and can continue whatever task is mine to accomplish. I am a woman and there's nothing I cannot do through You. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!—2 Corinthians 5:117 (NLT)

Dear Jesus, I am work in progress and that’s not a bad thing. In fact, that’s more than okay. Aren’t we all a work in progress; don’t we all change from what we once were? I’ll be changing and evolving and morphing my entire life. It’s more than being a feminine creation; it’s the condition of all humanity. We enter into this world as babies and from that point on we’re on a path that never stops changing. As a woman I can change up my looks, change my mind, change directions, change my friend-group, change my environment; even my relationship to Your Holy presence is changing. As I grow and mature and learn and understand I’m changing from being shaky in my faith to being on a more solid footing. You show me daily that nothing is so sacred it cannot be changed.   

Thank You, God, for the ability to make changes. Thank You God for accepting me in my seasons of change, for being super patient with me and loving me through all my seasons of change. You remind me every day that change is not only natural, but also good and inevitable. We don’t need to be so rigid we cannot change. Even as You worked with the clay pot it changed. Even while it was being worked in Your hand and responding to Your fingers, it was changing shape, yielding to Your touch. 

I won’t resist change, Lord. Instead I’ll welcome it and look forward to it. I am in Christ and therefore I am a new creation; always changing. Amen