In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Lord, at the close of this week, we praise you as the all-knowing and all-wise Creator and Sustainer of life. You know all of our ways and the number of our days. You know the way we should go and you give wisdom to those who ask for it. Forgive us for seeking knowledge without a relationship with you. Forgive us for trusting in things that could never satisfy the desire and longing in our hearts.

As we look around us at the chaos of life, the brokenness of our nation and the fracture of character and integrity, we give thanks for your faithfulness to hold us close to you, to sustain us in times of uncertainty, to love us in spite of our doubt. Give us the knowledge of your will, the understanding to apply your guidance to our lives and the courage to live for you in all circumstances and relationships of life.

Today, we rest in you and ask to be renewed so that we can stand without fear to call ourselves, our families, our work associates and friends to trust in you with all their hearts and to not lean on their own understanding. In all our ways, Father, may we acknowledge you so that we may receive the promise that you will direct our paths. In Jesus’ name – Amen.