Photo taken in Tennessee.

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

All powerful and compassionate Heavenly Father, I come to You in the Name of Jesus who shed His blood on the cross for my sin. Thank you that in many places in the Scriptures, You show that You want to have a close relationship with me. You tell me in James 4:7-12 what I need to do to have that relationship.

First and most importantly, You want me to be near to You. For that to happen, You want my mind and heart to be clean. I know that this is impossible in my own strength, therefore I look to You for cleansing. Verse 8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded.”

It is a blessing to know that Satan’s power is no match for You as he frequently tries to win me over to his lies and evil causes. Your answer for dealing with him is expressed for me in verse 7. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and He will flee from you.” I realize that this can only be done through the power of You Word, so please direct me to the Scriptures in the Bible to accomplish this.  Psalm 119:18 “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.”

Make me sensitive and aware of the effect that pride has in my relationship and communication with You, as well as with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Verse 10-11a “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. Do not speak evil of one another, brethren.”

Thank you that in spite of my human shortcomings You reach out in love and give me worth and dignity. You give me power through Your Word and prayer to be able to communicate with You and receive Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.