Prayer for Widows Facing a New Year

This is the last of 12 prayers I've composed for widows this year. If you'd like to see them all together, click on the Prayers for Widows label in the sidebar. What a privilege to bring to our God the smallest to largest of our heart's desires. I hope this prayer helps you look ahead without dread to 2013, and opens up eyes to the life of adventure and purpose God has in store for each of us.

♥ ferree

Psalm 23 is a classic funeral passage. Why not carry it with you beyond the cemetary? Discover the rich promise it holds for the year ahead. Take Psalm 23 and make it your own as I've done here.

Dear Lord,

Be my shepherd in this year ahead. You know my needs, so help me learn to follow where you lead. With you as my shepherd I'll not be in want.

You'll make me lie down in green pastures and lead me beside quiet waters.

(Oh, I do hate to sit still, though!

Please help me to recognize your plan and cooperate with your program, Lord!

I see where it says that you'll make me lie down . . . how much easier if I'd only follow your lead!)

You'll restore my soul (How I need that!)

You'll guide me in righteous pathways.

Even though I've walked through the valley of death,

there's no reason to fear evil for you are with me.

Your protection and discipline guard me and bring me comfort.

Even when surrounded by enemies who want to steal my peace,

you prepare a table full of all that I need.

You annointing heals me.

My life overflows with your abundance.

Surely goodness and love will follow me,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Thank you Lord, for your presence and for the place you've prepared for me.

Amen