Apart from the Lord's Prayer, the New Testament tells us four things for which we are specifically to pray. These all conveniently begin with the letter 'H'...
I. Harvest: "Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest." (Matthew 9:38)
Lord God, you are King, and you are at work in this world growing your kingdom. Thank you for choosing to use us in bringing your elect to faith. There are still so many who do not know you, and many who have not even heard the gospel – please raise up more workers for your harvest field: ministers of the Word, gospel preachers, overseas missionaries and other Christian workers. Remove any obstacles that may hinder their service for you. But most of all, grant to all of us opportunities to proclaim the great news about Jesus, and give us the grace to make the most of these opportunities, so that he may be honoured.
II. Haters: "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..." (Matthew 5:44)
Holy Father, you have told us to pray for those who persecute us, but we confess that often when people have done the wrong thing to us, we have retaliated, or grumbled, or harboured feelings of bitterness. Forgive us please, and help us to be more like Jesus. Change the hearts of those who oppose you, and who promote evil deeds. Help them to see that you are the Righteous Judge. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
III. Hierarchy: "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings(!) be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way..." (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Father, thank you for the freedom we have to worship you. Thank you for our leaders at local, state and national level. Please help them to do what is right, and give them wisdom in all the decisions they are required to make. Let the laws of this country conform to your Law, and may our freedom to serve you not be hindered. Help us, Lord, to make the most of this freedom, so that your name may be glorified.
IV. Household: "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed..." (James 5:16)
Thank you, God, that you care for your people. You give us everything we need to live godly lives here on earth. Please help those who are struggling, comfort those who are grieving, heal those who are sick, encourage those who are depressed, provide for those who lack and forgive those who confess their sins to you. May we grow together into one body, and may we truly love each other, so that in all things Jesus Christ may be honoured.
Amen.
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