From Handbook to Prayer
Affirmation
Whoever is wise and understanding will show it by his good conduct and works done in the humility that comes from wisdom. If I harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in my heart, I should not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there is disorder and every evil practice. (James 3:13–16)
The wisdom that comes from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, submissive, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. (James 3:17–18)
Pause to reflect upon these biblical affirmations.
Thanksgiving
The angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10–11)
The Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:10)
As many as received Christ, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12–13)
Pause to offer your own expressions of thanksgiving.
Closing Prayer
If anyone wishes to come after You, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow You. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Your sake and the gospel’s will find it. For what is a man profited if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:24–26; Mark 8:34–37; Luke 9:23–25)
I shall know the truth, and the truth shall set me free. Everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets me free, I shall be free indeed. (John 8:32, 34–36)
