“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2)

Good morning Lord.

I greet you before I tackle the rest of the day, otherwise it will surely tackle me with its strong arms of schedules and time-stealers that pin me to the ground. The ever-present load of needs is positioned like a formidable foe demanding my attention, and I am no match for its pull. Instead, I choose time with you, and find you always there like a faithful friend who never tires of showing up to meet with me.

Thank you for the hours lined up ahead with opportunities waiting to unfold, for the times of delicious anticipation just down the road and around the bend that you have planned like an enormous feast spread across a table twenty-four hours long.

I welcome each one, but first I welcome you. You crafted another day, designed it and orchestrated its fascinating details. I rejoice in the undeniable truth that you will go ahead, and nothing will get in your way or catch you off guard.

Come on in, dear Lord. Take up residence in my heart and make yourself at home. Move in and fill all the cracks and crevices you find. Regulate my heart and mind that so quickly spiral in directions you never intend. You command sea and skies and galaxies untold. Go ahead, my Lord, and bring me under your control.

I worship to let you know I love you, to bless the beauty and the power of your name, to set my focus on you. You are the sole Creator of the universe, and I approach as one of your children who finds delights in you. You hold dominion as Lord over all, and I am recipient of your endless love and favor. I bow before you, recognizing you as perfect and complete, as a good and gracious King, as the God who hears and answers prayer with impeccable timing, matchless wisdom, limitless grace.

Forgive me Lord for failing to honor you in the middle of my routines, for forgetting that you are fully present even when life seems topsy-turvy and unkempt. Wash away my unbelief and pride, my anxious wondering that blocks you from view. Sweep out, set right, clean house. May I be quick to hear and apply the guidance of your voice.

As I open your Word now, would you open my eyes to your truth. As I look into this passage, look into me; as I read, see between the lines of my heart. As I hold your Scripture in my hand, would you hold me fast in yours. Plant your wisdom like seeds into the field within. Till the soil and grow your seedlings so they sprout, flourish, and produce what you ultimately desire in me.

Elizabeth A Mitchell