Welcome March!

 Heavenly Father, the story of the widow in the Old Testament who needed to pay her debt with oil is a powerful narrative that illustrates Your provision and the importance of faith and obedience. Thank You for this powerful reminder in the Scriptures that we can approach You with any and every kind of problem we have, whether it’s about our relationships, our health, raising children, marriage issues, employment, education, or debt and finances. You do not turn us away or criticize. Instead, You hear our prayers—sometimes spoken in desperation and panic—and You supply the answer we need. How often, just like this widow, our solutions are closer and more practical than we realize. When we trust You and are willing to obey the word of counsel You provide we will also experience the joy of solutions and promised supply and abundance. In Jesus’ name. Amen 

(Optional Ending)

Lord, today, I’m having a problem [name]. I’ve done everything I can think of to solve it by myself and through the suggestions of others. I need your help, Lord. I feel a lot like the widow in the Old Testament. I know You have told me not to panic or become desperate but turn to You instead. I know Your word says if anyone needs Your wisdom all they have to do is ask and You will give it willingly and without criticism. I need Your wisdom, Lord. I need your help to solve my problem of [name]. Thank You Father for Your care and concern about my life. Thank You for Your promise to help me with my life and for the wisdom and assistance You provide. Thank You for being our divine problem-solver in modern times as well as Bible times. I know You hear my prayers and I will watch and wait with expectation. In Jesus’ name. Amen   

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him—James 1:5

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you—I Peter 5:7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus—Philippians 4:6-7

In my distress I called to the Lord; I called out to my God for help—Psalm 18:6

Old Testament story of the widow and the oil:

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 Heavenly Father, I read a story in the Bible where one brother tried to bring Jesus into the middle of a disagreement he was having with his brother; the man wanted Jesus to take sides, but Jesus refused. He told them to work it out together. We can all think of times when family members are not getting along. When this happens, it makes everyone uncomfortable; the family is split apart. Family gatherings are not pleasant or well attended. The laughter and joy are gone; love for one another is forgotten. Lord, the Bible instructs us to find common ground, to be reasonable and work out our issues as quickly as possible. We are not to let anger fester so the devil can take control but remember, not only our love for one another, but the unconditional love You have for us even though we are flawed and sinful. When I become aware of family members that are not getting along, help me to be a peacemaker and not someone who fans the flame. Help me remember to pray for the feuding parties and encourage each one to be forgiving and have a receptive not hardened heart. I pray for peace between family members. I pray they desire to seek—not so much who is right or wrong—but seek Your will and solutions and know that You are not pleased when we cannot get along and allow the enemy—who is a dividing force—to persuade and influence. Today, I especially pray for [name] and [name] that they may once again enjoy peace harmony, laughter and good relationship. Protect us from discord and division in our families, Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray.

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus replied, “Man who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”—Luke 12:13-15 

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contented at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life—Philippians 4:2-3

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you—Ephesians 4:32

Heavenly Father it is said that the effect of tea is cooling and as a beverage helps us cultivate the kind of self-restraint that benefits us in other areas of our lives. Father, as much as we want to take a sip of our steaming, aromatic brew before it’s cooled down a bit, we know that doing so will only result in the inside of our mouth and tongue being burned; wise and patient people learn to wait until it's safe. If we want to quench our thirst, then hot teas aren't our best choice; they call for sipping, contemplation and nurturing. Hot teas teach us patience, self-control and self-restraint much like You are doing when You design our life-lessons, allow trials, challenges and difficulties to come our way. Thank You God, for the way You use the everyday things in life to introduce coping skills, expand our understanding, give us wisdom, and change our approach to life's problems. Thank You for the lessons we learn through something as simple and tasty as tea that not only contain healing and medicinal properties but call us to a stillness that’s both physically, emotionally, and spiritually calming, teaching us how to cultivate a patient and quiet soul. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Promise

Be still and know that I am God—Psalm 46:10

On each side of the river stood the tree of life. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations—Revelation 22:2

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him—Psalm 34:8

 Lord Jesus, Beautiful Friend, thank You for the reminders You have provided in Your life-giving word, so, whenever I come and sit with You with my Bible in front of me, I am comforted by Your truths that bring healing and life to my weary spirit and soul; they refresh and empower me. Thank You for reminding me of truths like:

I was made whole in the womb. While human companionship is good—and the Father has called and designed me for community—however, I do not need another human to complete me; I am already a whole person and enough.

Thank You for the reminder that it’s not what I put on the outside of my body that makes me beautiful in Your sight; it’s what’s on the inside. I could have all the fabulous, designer clothing on the market; I could wear all the best and most expensive jewelry my budget can afford, but none of that will make me more attractive; none of that can make up for what my character lacks or a bad attitude. None of that can help heal my sin condition; only You can do that Jesus.

Thank You for the reminder that I am smart (enough); I am strong enough. I can handle my life, I can make wise decisions, I can endure the trials and challenges that arise in my life. The Father has promised to send wisdom to me from heaven and the Spirit gives me the strength I need for each day, each challenge. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

Lord, I’m not even touching the surface of Your truths and promises here, but they are enough to get me started in my day; they are enough to hold me firmly when the enemy of my emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing starts his nagging whispers. 

Thank You for empowering me through Your Word and the truth within it. I pray, help me share what I know with someone who doesn’t they are made whole by God, beautiful in God’s sight, and made strong through Jesus. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

And you have been made complete in Christ, who is head over every ruler and authority—Colossians 2:10

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight—I Peter 3:3-4

I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me—Philippians 4:13

Heavenly Father, it takes so little to be above average. Maybe that’s why we’re in awe of the Proverbs Thirty-One woman in the Bible. It’s not that she does anything we cannot do; we all—male and female—have it in us to be productive and conscientious in our work and character; we all have it in us to be above average. Something as simple as being a person who does what we say we will do, or living up to the promises we make can make us above average. We may be surprised at the number of people who don’t expect people to fulfill their promises or show up when they say they will, provide support when they have promised to, or execute something with excellency and proficiency. It’s my desire to be a woman of integrity. Not just do better about keeping my promises but in my character overall. The Apostle Paul wrote on numerous occasions that we should strive for excellency. That alone will make me above average. Help me as I work on my character and do those things that are intentional and trustworthy. Help me practice integrity in all I say and do so my life is pleasing to You and a sweet-smelling fragrance, not an offensive odor. Help me strive for that excellency in the things I do and what I say and in my character that Paul wrote is achievable and within my capability as a daughter of God filled with the excellent Spirit of God. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen   

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank—Proverbs 22:29

Then, this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him—Daniel 6:3

Many women do noble things but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate—Proverbs 31:29-31  

  God, in Your Word we learn what to do and what not to do. Every time I read the Bible I either learn something new, or I am reminded of something I already knew and maybe forgot or stored away in my mind. After reading the story of Rebekah and her sons Jacob and Esau in the Old Testament (Gen. 27:1-29), the deception and estrangement of those two brothers and tearing of that entire family, I learn it’s not good to favor one child over another and that showing favoritism can wreak havoc in family relationships. Someone always ends up being emotionally damaged and hurt. Parents and all humans are flawed and don’t always do the right thing, thank You for working with us to change our flawed and sinful characters, God. Thank You, especially, that Your character is flawless and with You there is no favoritism; all are treated equally, all are corrected and disciplined, all have blessings and rewards, and none are favored over another. I pray, keep me reminded of this if I’m ever favoring one member of my family over another. Rebekah learned the hard way not to favor one child over another but more importantly she learned it’s not good to resort to deception or to manipulate outcomes. Let me learn from Rebekah and others what to do and what not to do so I can live a God-pleasing life. Help me to be a mender and not a wounder; a person who brings people together and not tears them apart; someone who does not manipulate outcomes but trusts in You and Your plans at all times. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

For the Lord your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed—Deuteronomy 10:17 

Then Peter replied, ‘I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right—Acts 10:34-35

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God—Micah 6:8

   Heavenly Father, just like good manners help make a tea-gathering enjoyable: serving hot tea from the right (or left if the person is left-handed), providing generous size napkins for guests to keep fingers from getting too sticky or wiping crumbs from the mouth, setting the table with knives and forks if open-faced finger sandwiches are being served, avoiding subjects of politics or religion are just a few of the manners guests and hosts should follow so everyone can have an enjoyable tea time. 

The older I become the more I appreciate and have learned how to use good manners to my advantage: A simple please and thank you go a long way. My good manners are not a mask for my [true] feelings; they do not hide secret resentment or bitterness. They are an effective tool, opening doors, gaining respect from others; they are a quiet power that turns strangers into friends and challenges into opportunities. Being courteous and mannerable are not beneath me, they reflect the good You have knit into my being. When I use good manners, I am a reflection of the Spirit’s mannerable nature as He assists believers in their spiritual journey. May I always take a page from the Sprit’s book of manners and practice them with those I live with, work with, and worship with. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and show perfect courtesy toward all people—Titus 3:2

Show proper respect to everyone, love he family of believers, fear God—I Peter 2:17

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone—Colossians 4:6  

 God, thank You for each day. Thank You that each season, just like in nature, is different. We cannot predict what will happen from one season of life to the next nor can we assume because one season or time of life was uneventful and smooth-sailing, assures that the next season will be the same. You are constantly teaching us that the point of the hard days is not just to move us to the good days or vice versa. Through Your Word and promises we are reminded that human ambition and planning are important, however according to Your Word they are secondary to Your divine purposes. Life teaches us humility and through Your faithfulness and steadfastness You teach us what it means to put our trust in You and the need to align our desires with Your will. Whether pleasant or difficult, every one of my days is known by You and You destined me even before my life began; my future, just like my past, is in your hands and is purposed. I may have many ideas concerning Your plan for my life but only Your plans for me will succeed. As I approach each new day may I be open to the changes You send my way or allow in my life. May I flow with you so I can grow with You, Lord.  

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

A person may have many ideas concerning God’s plan his life, but only the designs of his purpose will succeed in the end—Proverbs 19:21 

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps—Proverbs 16:9

The Lord of hosts has shown: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand—Isaiah 14:24 

Do not forget to show hospitality to stranger, for by doing some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it—Hebrews 13:2

 Jesus, some women—like Martha in the Bible—seem to have been born with a strong gifting of hospitality. They are not content for you to just sit in their home with nothing in front of you: a plate of homemade cookies, or freshly baked cake and delicious tea or coffee. They will ask you a thousand times is there anything you need; can they bring you anything to make you more comfortable…Thank You God, for these beautiful souls that live to make others comfortable and feeling welcomed and special. I’m reminded today of the Bible story where You visited the home of Simon the Pharisee—who by the way—wasn’t very hospitable. He didn’t offer to wash Your feet or make You comfortable. You pointed out that he was inhospitable and ungracious toward You. Thank You for those who have a knack of making others feel welcome and special; today I’m especially thankful for [name] and her beautiful gift of hospitality. Not everyone will be a Martha or a [name], but we can all cultivate a spirit of hospitality. The hospitality we show to someone may be the only kindness they experience on their journey or in their present life circumstances. As the Scriptures remind us, we should entertain all as though we are entertaining the Prince of Peace and the King of kings. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality—Romans 12:13

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Marth opened her home to him—Luke 10:38

A Pharisee invited Jesus to have dinner with him, and Jesus went to his house and sat down to eat…Jesus spoke up and said to him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” I came into your home, and you gave me no water for my feet…You did not welcome me with a kiss…You provided no olive oil for my head—Luke 7:36,40,44,45,46

Do not forget to show hospitality to stranger, for by doing some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it—Hebrews 13:2

Heavenly Father, You purposely created us with two ears and one mouth. Some have said that’s because we should listen twice as much as we talk. There could be some credence to that. I know there’s always room for me to listen more and talk less, since listening is one of the key elements to successful relationships. Some believe women make better listeners then our male counterparts. I’m not sure whether this is true or not, Lord—maybe it’s because men can be “fixers” by nature and jump in to offer solutions—women don’t necessarily want someone to fix or solve their problems, just listen to them. Thank You Lord for always being that Person I can talk to, and You will listen to me without judgment or cutting me off mid- sentence. I have a lot to learn from You about listening with my whole heart instead of my distracted mind. You have strategically placed people in my life that need someone to listen to them; help me remember that “two-ears-and-one-mouth” adage so I’m slower to speak, slower to judge, slower to form an opinion, slower to offer solutions, quick to put away distractions, quick to listen and easy to talk to! Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger—James 1:19

Before they call I will answer, while they are yet speaking I will hear—Isaiah 65:24       

  Thank You Lord for helping me put my cravings in check. Somedays I crave sweets, Somedays, I can’t get enough salty snacks, and other times I find myself reaching for anything that’s got a good crunch to it. Some cravings I seek to satisfy and others I do my best to resist. I’m grateful for one craving I never have to resist or deny: and that’s the craving I have for You; the craving to be in Your presence any way I can. The craving that calls for me to pause in my day and spend time in Your presence where I am refreshed, refueled and strengthened. That must be what the writer was saying when he wrote, we should be like newborn babies who crave their mother’s nourishing milk. I pray, O Lord, satisfy my craving for You and refresh my spirit. You are exactly what I need, more than chocolate, chips, or my fav beverages or dishes! Thank You for this spiritual craving that does not come with guilt, calories or regret! Thank You or providing the pure spiritual milk I need. Your Word guides me and Your Spirit provides everything I lack and need. More than any hunger or thirst I have, may I always have an unquenchable thirst and insatiable hunger for Your Word, returning to it daily and always for guidance, peace, strength, courage, comfort, healing and most of all, spiritual growth and maturity. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen        

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

Like newborn infants, crave pure spiritual milk, so that you may grow up in your salvation—I Peter 2:2

How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!—Psalm 119:103

 Today, Father I’m thinking about the instruction You provide in Your word concerning peace; being at peace with one another and being a peacemaker. It seems everywhere I look there is anything but peace. Countries aren’t at peace. The arms of our government aren’t at peace. People living in communities with one another aren’t at peace. Races aren’t at peace, even our home environment and relationships don’t always reflect or embody peace. But You call me to peace and remind me constantly as much as within me lies—I am to be at peace with others, and I am to be with myself. Somedays this feels like a tall order God. I’m personally exhausted and weary of war and unrest and the absence of peace everywhere! Thank You for the help of Your Holy Spirit; I adore Him and His help is invaluable! I can rely on Him for everything so I know He can help me be that peacemaker I should be. Today, Father, I pray for peace, beginning with me and spreading out. Let there be peace in every corner of this earth, peace in troubled communities, peace between governing officials, peace in the workplace and schools, peace between the races, and of course I pray for peace in my own living spaces and with those nearest and dearest to me. I know peace is a tall order, but I’m reminded there isn’t anything You cannot do or cause to take place in the hearts of those who are willing. I know I am! In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

God gives his people peace—Psalm 29:11b

But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm—Proverbs 1:33

He will settle disputes among the nations and provide arbitration for many peoples. They will turn their swords into plows and their spears into pruning knives. Nations will not take up the sword against other nations, and they will never again train for war—Isaiah 2:4    

 Dear Heavenly Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus, choosing to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. I thank You that because I abide in You, I rest under the shadow of the Almighty. You are my true and reliable refuge, my fortress, my God in whom I trust. You cover me with Your feathers and provide refuge under Your wings. I am not a person who belongs to this world having a worldly mindset that depends on charms or omens to protect me; it is Your faithfulness alone that are my shield and my armor; protecting me from fear and doubt. Thank You for giving me angel protection to guard me in all my ways. Thank You for empowering me so I don’t stumble and I can trample on the traps of the enemy and walk victoriously in this dangerous world and environment. I can walk confidently through my day and life because You love me; Your love is eternal and all-encompassing; I need not fear the terrors of the night or Satan’s arrows that fly by day. I need not tremble because of a date on the calendar. Thank You for Your promise to deliver me from evil and satisfy me with a long life. Thank You for holding fast in love. I will honor You with my life and my heart. Amen

Inspiration or Today’s Tea Cup Prayer

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust,” For he will deliver me from the snare of the fowler—and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler—Psalm 91:1-4

Because You have made the LORD your dwelling place—the Most High, who is my refuge—no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways—Psalm 91:9-11

 Good morning my dear Lord and restoring God! You are truly my Redeemer! Today I am reminded that no matter what I have lost You are the God who can restore to me lost and wasted years, lost and wasted opportunities. No experience is beyond Your repair, and no time is beyond recovering when I place it in Your hands. I do not have to sit in regret or languish in disappointment; there is no need for me to lose sleep, beat myself up, or believe life is over and not worth pressing through trials and troubles and lack; I can remember and be encouraged through Your promises that You are the God of turnaround, and I am grateful and thankful that You can turn what I’ve lost around. You can give me back my health, You can restore relationships, You can make my finances prosper, You can bring new opportunities in front of me, You can take what’s been broken and make it whole. In Your hands the unfruitful can bear much fruit! The Word of God says You can turn my shame into glory and defeats into victories. Thank You for promising to give me beauty in exchange for ashes and honor from past pain and strife. I can lose one thing, but You can restore double to me!  When You restore what’s been lost, O Lord, I am rewarded, blessed and aware that I walk in favor. I will not live defeated and depressed, but I will live full of hope, joy, and potential! In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration or Today’s Teacup Prayer:

I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, my great army which I sent among you—Joel 2:25 

After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before…The LORD blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys—Job 42:10, 12

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble—Psalm 90:14-15

 Lord, there are times when I must eat in haste, without the opportunity to sit leisurely and savor my meal, or times when I must rise immediately after the last bite. When that happens not long after I've eaten my stomach starts growling as though I have not eaten at all. Quick, grab-and-go meals have become a common feature of our busy lives—items easily held in the hand or consumed while occupied with other tasks are in high demand. I confess that, at times I treat Your Word in much the same way. On certain days, I have little time to devote to Scripture, so I glance at it quickly before closing it. That's okay for some days but I shouldn't make a habit of it. Today, I sense Your call to linger over Your promises. I feel the Spirit’s whisper urging me not to consume my spiritual nourishment as I would a fast-food burger between meetings or on my way somewhere. When I hastily take in the promises You have given, or the passages to which You have led me, my heart and mind have no time to truly digest the profound words You have prophesied over my life. Grant me the discipline to slow down and dwell in Your Word, that I might grasp its full meaning and experience the richness it holds. I long to understand Your plans for me and to know Your thoughts toward me. I desire that Your word be planted so deeply within my heart that it cannot be shaken. Your Word holds the power to transform my thoughts and shape my approach to life; it makes me wiser and stronger. I seek to receive all the spiritual nourishment it offers. In Jesus’ name. Amen.        

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer

O taste and see that the Lord is good—Psalm 34:8

I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty—John 6:35

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that you may grow up in your salvation—I Peter 2:2

  Heavenly Father, teapots are inanimate objects but there’s a lot I can learn about the care of self and soul as I care for my teapot. For example, Lord, I’ve learned the best way to care for my teapot is to rinse it with warm water (no soap) and let it air dry. Periodically I should use a damp cloth dipped in a little baking soda and rub it down on the inside to keep those bitter tannins from building up and leaving an aftertaste that spoils the flavor of the tea. A lump of sugar absorbs moisture and keeps the inside of my teapot smelling sweet. It’s no surprise Lord, that You’ve provided many ways I can care for myself outside and inside. Daily bathing and moisturizing my skin will keep it supple and soft as I age and attending to my soul and heart daily can keep those spiritual tannins from making me bitter. Thank You for prayer. Daily conversations with You, time in Your word both alone and in study groups can keep my heart in check and free of the bitterness that can easily set itself up in me, especially after I have been wounded or hurt in my relationships and disappointed by life. Just like that baking soda will wash away sediment in my teapot, communing at Your altar and receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus my Savior will cleanse my heart and keep my soul from the sediment of sin that destroys the beautiful being You fashioned me to be. Thank You for Your powerful, creative, life-giving, ministering Holy Spirit. As He lives in me, He makes my heart His temple and begins sowing His beautiful fruit into my being. Just like that lump of sugar keeps my teapot smelling sweet, the Holy Spirit and His spiritual fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control, make me a sweet aroma to You and to others also. Everything you do in and through and with me, Lord, blesses me, blesses others, and glorifies You! In Jesus’ name. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer:

Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, brawling, and slander be put away from you, along with malice—Ephesians 4:31

Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one can share its joy—Proverbs 14:10    

See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many—Hebrews 12:15

 Heavenly Father, sometimes after reaching goals I’ve set, experiencing big accomplishments, or having had an especially grueling week that I got through despite the challenges it held, I reward and treat myself: shopping for that brand new outfit I’ve had my eye on, an outing I’ll enjoy, my favorite dessert or treat(yum!), lunch with close friends, a morning at the salon enjoying some much needed self-care… Thank You for the many ways I can reward myself that don’t cause feelings of guilt or shame. They may be small things and to some not very spiritual, but You do not deny me them or judge me for enjoying them. Not everything is sinful or forbidden; You have given us this earth and the things it holds for our enjoyment. When we enjoy our life it pleases, glorifies and honors You. We know where all our blessings come, the One who shapes and sends them: they come from God of heaven and earth who loves, cares and provides for us. Because You created everything good, we can appreciate and find joy. When we enjoy good food, beautiful landscapes, or the laughter of friends, we are reminded to express gratitude to You for the blessings You have given us. In Jesus’ name We pray. Amen  

Inspiration for Today’s Teacup Prayer:

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good—Genesis 1:31

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving—I Timothy 4:4  

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it—Psalm 118:24          

 Heavenly Father, a well-made tea kettle—unlike the fragile teapot that’s more for holding the brewed tea and pouring from the table—can withstand the heat and high temps. When the burner is turned up or the flames start beneath it, it’s not yelling to be removed or taken off; no, it’s ready and willing to withstand the heat! It knows the heat is part of the process of producing a delicious, flavorful, savory tea that’s pleasant to the tastebuds. That’s just like me, Lord! Isn’t that how You fashioned me? How You’ve helped me become more like that sturdy kettle that can take the heat without panicking or cracking? Through every trial You have sent or allowed into my life I’ve become more and more like that tea kettle; less and less fragile. I’m more than something attractive on the outside but lacking depth, staying-power or ability to withstand trials. Because I have learned under the ministry of Your Holy Spirit, to endure hardship, persevere through disappointments, and be resilient after the fires of life, I do not bow down or stop pressing just because my arch enemy starts whispering lies, trying to convince me I can’t take the heat or that I’m going to crack under the pressure! Instead, I heed and believe Your voice of counsel that reminds me I can do this! I’m just fine! I can stand and stand some more! I can wait on and in You! I will be victorious when all [this] is over! I’m proud to be one of Your teakettles, Lord! I may be Your beautiful, beloved child, but I’m not fragile; I can take the heat! In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer:

When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze—Isaiah 43:2

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything—James 1:2-4

These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise , glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed—I Peter 1:7 

 Lord, God, I pray for my home today, my dwelling. My home is more than brick and mortar, wood and frame. It’s filled with the things I have carefully chosen, but it’s more than material things; it’s more than the walls that divide the spaces creating the living areas that serve a purpose. It’s more than the place that contains my (our) worldly belongings and shields me (us) from the elements. It’s more than the floors, ceilings and windows, it’s more than a house, it’s my (our) home, the place I (we) eat, sleep, relax, work, entertain others, laugh, and share. It is my (our) shelter from the storms of life and the place I (we) pray and commune with You day-in-and-day-out; Your Spirit dwells her with me (us) also. I pray, protect my (our) home from negative, wicked, spiritual presence that like to invade and take over. Protect it from natural disasters like storms and floods, fires and strong winds and earthquakes that could shake it from its firm foundation. Protect it from vandals and pestilence. Protect it from deed theft, the deceitful scam artist, and foreclosure. I pray, don’t let the high cost of living keep me from providing necessary care and upkeep my (our) home needs so it is well-maintained. I don’t worship my (our) home, Lord, but I am grateful for it and all the joys, shared experiences, and memories I (we) have made here. Grant me strength of body, soul, and mind to care for it well. Bless my (our) home, Lord and fill it continually with Your sweet Spirit. Let the gits of wisdom, understanding,  forgiveness, life, health and peace rule the atmosphere. Let my (our) home continue to be a sweet gathering spot for all and may all who enter feel the love and warmth that has been poured into it. In Jesus’ name. Amen    

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.  Psalm 127:1

By wisdom, a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge its rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches—Proverbs 24:3-4      

Heavenly Father, You led the prophet Elijah to a high mountain to sit with You in quiet reflection. Elijah had lots of questions and yes, some doubts too, Lord! He expected to see You show up in a dramatic way: He looked for You in the strong wind, in an earthquake, and in the fire, but You surprised Him and showed up in a quiet, gentle voice. That taught Elijah a lesson. Lord, You impressed upon Elijah—as You do all of us that You don’t always show up the way we think You should or expect You too. You’re like that song made famous by Frank Sinatra, “You do it Your Way! Thank You for the different perspective You give me as I survey the challenges and troubles and problem areas of my life. Thank You for letting me know my idea of a solution is not always the best and You have a way in mind that will cause things to come out even better than I can think, ask or imagine. I pray for a trusting and submitted heart. I pray to be more Spirit-led in my thinking and determinations. I pray for patience as I wait in You, for eyes that see beyond what’s in front of me and beneath the surface, and, more than anything I ask You to carve out for me times in my day and week where I can sit in quietness as Elijah did and hear Your voice speaking to me, guiding me, and counseling me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen    

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

The LORD said, “Go out. Stand on the mountain in front of me. I am going to pass by.” As the LORD approached, a very powerful wind tore the mountains apart. It broke up the rocks. But the LORD wasn’t in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake. But the LORD wasn’t in the earthquake. After the earthquake a fire came. But the LORD wasn’t in the fire. And after the fire there was only a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his coat over his face. He went out and stood at the entrance to the cave.—I Kings 19:11-13

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or think, according to His power that is at work within us—Ephesians 3:20   

Heavenly Father, it must be no surprise that some of my best tea times, when the tea (or coffee) tastes especially delightful and flavorful, are when I’m sipping from one of my favorite mugs or cups. They may not be the prettiest in my cabinet, or the best looking in my collection. Some of them have chips here and there, a missing handle, even a hairline crack that doesn’t keep it from holding my sweet brew, but they are my go-to; they still have a place in my pantry or in my collection. Maybe it’s their vulnerability that attracts me most! Maybe there’s a reason for this, Lord: a reminder of how You don’t discard me; how, even with my missing pieces, chips and cracks You still see the good and usefulness in me! Thank You for holding me in Your hand so tenderly after life has banged me up a bit, for steadying me after I’ve acquired a limp or being so understanding of me after a heartbreak and need for restoration and healing. Thank You for loving me, the marred cup in Your hand and filling me with all the good stuff I need from You to not only get through this life but to excel and be fruitful. In Jesus’ sweet name I pray. Amen

Inspiration for Today’s Tea Cup Prayer

But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him—Jeremiah 18:3

But now, O LORD, You are our Father; we are the clay and You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand—Isaiah 64:8

 I am not consumed…I will be alright…I can stand and be strong…Thank You, God, for Your mighty promises written in the Scriptures that I can personalize and cling to during tough times. A strong word, for when the pressures and trials and troubles and chaos of the world around me—and even in my own environment—hit me hard and fast, when I feel like I’m drowning under a fury of waves—keep me from being consumed. More than 100 times You placed this word of assurance in some form in our Bible; surely You issued this promise for times such as these, Lord. I’m certain of it. I’m not the first human—and I won’t be the last—who needs this reminder when the storms of life come hard and heavy; I won’t be consumed because You are a merciful, compassionate, and loving God. Even with all our disobedience Your mercy is steadfast. These troubles could easily wipe me from the face of the earth. I could easily be swallowed up by the challenges I face…but I won’t be because my God is bigger and more powerful than anything I face: I am strong in Him! More than anything, You, my God, are concerned for my life and my wellbeing, because of Your great love toward me I am not consumed. I am made strong and can endure. Victory is coming. In Jesus’ name. Amen       

Inspiration for Today’s Prayer

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, or his compassions never fail—Lamentations 3:22

This was my situation: The heat consumed me in the daytime and the cold at night, and sleep fled from my eyes—Genesis 31:40

My soul is consumed with longing for your laws at all times—Psalms 119:20