ACTS: A Way to Pray

Wednesday, February 9

Jeremiah 9:23-24

Thus says the Lord, “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight,” declares the Lord.

Adoration:

Dear Heavenly Father, you are all wise—you know the goings’ on within the tiniest human cell, and you know the plotted orbit of the furthest planet. Also, you are all powerful—the sun rises every morning by your faithful nod. And everything, in heaven and earth, belongs to you! You are worthy to be praised!

Confession:

I confess that I do not always think about nor speak about who you are to a world that needs to hear. Rather, I focus on me, whether it’s out loud, or in my heart. Forgive me for my pride concerning my own “wisdom;” for wisdom without you is actually foolishness. And forgive me for boasting in my own strength; I am reminded that I cannot even take a breath without your grace! You make my heart beat and my body function. And forgive me for boasting in my own riches—seeking comfort more than seeking you. Again, everything I possess has been generously poured out from your hand.

Thanksgiving:

Thank you, God, for who you are toward me, even and in spite of my tendency to wander! Why do you continue to run after me? Thank you for delighting in these things: “steadfast love, justice, and righteousness.” You are so patient, so passionate, and so good to me! These are the things I want to boast about!

Supplication:

I ask for a humble heart, one that thinks and then speaks about less of me and more of you. Make my heart boast in who you are so that the people around me will be drawn to the living hope that resides in me. Make me a vessel of your glory, poured out.

I pray all these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Use these verses and ACTS to write your own personal prayer in your journal.

In today’s Jeremiah passage, we see God clearly speaking his heart’s desire. Above all else, he wants us to know and understand him! Then he immediately describes himself to us. In this ACTS study, have you come to a greater realization of who God is in any new way? If inclined, please share with us.