Photo taken in Hawaii.

Author: Elton Streyle, Contributor: Noah, Photography and Editing: Ali

All-wise Heavenly Father, I come to You in Your Son’s Name to thank you for showing me how to be successful in the physical world by giving me access to instructions, training manuals, etc. Far more importantly, you have provided me the manual to be able to live the Christian life (the Bible).

You have put instructions in the Scriptures about how to face any situation in life. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Since what I read in books and magazines and what I look at on television and the internet has a strong influence in my life, direct me to examine carefully what I allow into my mind.

Make Philippians 4:8 a reality for me. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of a good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things.”

Just as athletics, the arts, and most activities in life require constant repetition to get and stay in shape, encourage me to steadily repeat the spiritual exercises (prayer, reading the Word, confession, and worship) to stay spiritually strong.

Thank you that if I commit to the spiritual training You have laid out for the Christian life I can expect to receive your promise in Philippians 4:7. “And the peace of  God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Thank you that I can bring these thoughts and requests in Jesus’ Name, Amen.