A Friday Prayer

Father, 


As I sit here in the late hours of this Thursday evening I find myself feeling weighed down by the events of the week, and trying to release them into Your strong, but gentle hands. You know what to do with them. I do not. 


As I reflect on the days I realize that my perspective is blurred and limited. Things that I may consider as good, may not really be so good in Your eyes. Things that I consider as frustrating and discouraging, You may see as just what I need to make me stronger, build my character, and transform me more into Your image. 


Even the things that I have done this week...the sermons I have prepared, the conversations I have had, the teaching that I have done, and the materials I have read...may not be as valuable I think; or, perhaps they are more valuable. 


Then, when I allow myself to think about what is planned for Friday, and Saturday, and Sunday, I wonder how I will handle what You place in my hands. Will I see the opportunities, then seize it? Will I hear the message between the words that are spoken by those with whom I will converse? Will I treat each person with respect, dignity, gentleness, and kindness? Will I say the things that You want me to say in the way You want it said, and is such a way that those who listen will be encouraged and uplifted? 


Father, these are the things I ponder (or perhaps they are simply ramblings) as I reflect on the days which have just passed, and upon the days ahead (should I granted more days). These are the contents of my heart. I surrender them to You. I leave them with You. Should I be granted another day, I pray that You will empower me and reveal Your presence and Your will in whatever may come my way. Into Your hands I commit my words, my actions, my attitudes, and my good intentions.