“You know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.” (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12)
Our Father,
We praise You for taking the initiative in sending Your Son Jesus into the world on a costly rescue mission because You knew that we were not OK – lost, broken and separated from You because of sin. Our sin-sick souls needed healing, and what a joy it is to realise that we have found this in Jesus!
Teach us how to lift the hands that hang down, to buoy the hearts that are troubled and to strengthen the minds of the faint-hearted. Help us be Your instruments of courage and hope to all You bring across our path.
As we reflect on ‘R U OK? Day,’ remind us to be mindful of those around us who may not be OK either. Help us, Father, to reach out with compassion, to be a stream of courage to those who are suffering and to share Your love and hope with those who are struggling. May our example and words urge others to persevere in life and to know that the best is yet to come.
Inflame our hearts with all that You are as our great God. Teach us, Father, how to comfort the sorrowful and fortify the faint-hearted. Remind us that we live in a world that desperately needs all the encouragement we can give.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
If you have any prayer requests, please contact our Pastoral Care team at prayer@heathdale.vic.edu.au.