Hear this, O house of Jacob, who are called by the name of Israel, and who came from the waters of Judah, who swear by the name of the LORD and confess the God of Israel, but not in truth or right.
Isaiah 48:1 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, help me today not to be a “silent Christian.” Help me to live out my faith and trust in You in every aspect of my going out and my coming in. Help me to demonstrate my deep-seated, heartfelt belief in them, without contradiction in the very confession that I make. Lord, my prayer is not about not wanting to be seen as a hypocrite, though that is a result. Instead, it is because I don’t want to displease You in any thing or any way. I want to glorify You in every aspect of my being.
I confess that sometimes the external pressures from the greater society cause me to stumble. Not wanting to be viewed as not inclusive, wanting to be accepted and liked, not wanting to offend someone regarding their beliefs – the list goes on – sometimes causes me to not be true to who I am in You and my beliefs as conveyed in Your Word. I actually in those instances do more damage than good! Forgive me, Lord!
Today, as I declare Your Lordship over my life and commit myself to You afresh, I also commit to holding fast to Your Word and not being ashamed to tell others (Romans 1:16-17). When confronted with a lie, give me the wherewithal and insight to disagree without being disagreeable (2 Timothy 2:24). When asked to accept a lifestyle that is not aligned with Your Word and will, help me to tap into Your grace so that I can shine a light on their error lovingly (Ephesians 4:15). When frustrated by the obstinate spirits of those around me, remind me of Your patience with me and that I might strive to lovingly show the same (1 Peter 5:5). And I will do my best to stay in tune with Your Spirit so that I can choose my battles wisely, understanding when it is just best to walk away (Proverbs 26:4-5).
Lord, I believe You have given me everything I need for life and godliness that I might reflect Your glory here and now (2 Peter 1:3-4). I commit today to try to walk in that power. I realize they will be baby steps. But everyday that I set out to do it I trust that You will help me to be more faithful than the day before because it is not me but is You at work in me. Have Your way. Amen.