APRIL/MAY 2023

May God be gracious to us and bless us

and make his face shine on us.
PSALM 67:1 (NIV)
 A Note f r om the Ed itor

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and

lean not on your own understanding.
PROVERBS 3:5 (NIV)

This morning, as I washed the dishes, I

wondered if I should speak up in a situ-
ation where my instincts were telling me
to be quiet. I looked at the clothesline and
thought about the spring when a wren
built her nest in the tote bag that held
the clothespins we keep on the line. The
wren’s odd choice and bad planning trou-
bled me, and for weeks, I fought the urge
to move the tote bag. Instead, I used the
clothes dryer for fear of frightening her away and abandoning
her eggs.
“Please, God, keep the wren and her babies safe,” I prayed
every time I saw the precariously swinging tote. About two
weeks later, the mother bird flew into the tote, and a symphony
of chirps erupted. As hard as it was not to peek, I resisted going
near. When enough time had passed, and there was no sign of
the mother bird, I cautiously stood on tiptoe and smiled at the
beauty of the empty nest.
I’m often reminded of this lesson when I want to interfere
because I think I can help, but I know that sometimes my best
efforts are spent putting my trust in God.
As we prepare to celebrate Easter, I hope the Scriptures, re-
flections, and prayers in this issue bless your heart and help
you grow closer to Him.
Wishing you and your loved ones a glorious Easter,
Sabra

60 Days of Prayer (ISSN 2640-5474) is published bimonthly by Guideposts, 100 Reserve Road, Suite E200,
Danbury, CT 06810. Standard nonprofit postage paid. Canadian GST #893989236. Volume 6, No. 5. Issue date:
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Easter Blessing
This Easter,
rejoice in the loving,
gracious promise
of the resurrected Christ.
New life and
eternal hope.
He is risen indeed!

— Isabella Yosuico
 A PR I L 1

His Incomprehensible
Love
-HVXVVDLGo)DWKHUIRUJLYHWKHPIRUWKH\
GRQRWNQRZZKDWWKH\DUHGRLQJp
LUKE 23:34 (NIV)

GOD SENT HIS only Son to give us the gift of salvation.

Because of His great love, you do not have to dwell on
your past mistakes and failures. His passion is bigger
than the pain of your sins. He will heal your broken
pieces and replace them with His peace.

/RUGQRWKLQJFDQVHSDUDWHPHIURP<RXUORYH<RXUSRZHU
WRIRUJLYHLVOLPLWOHVV7KDQN<RXIRU<RXUPHUF\

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 2

Prayer for Palm Sunday

The crowds that went ahead of him and those that
IROORZHGVKRXWHGo+RVDQQDWRWKH6RQRI'DYLGp
MATTHEW 21:9 (NIV)

WHEN JESUS RODE into Jerusalem, the crowd shouted

“Hosanna!” and declared Him king. Yet Jesus knew His
preaching and beliefs would not lead Him to ascend
a throne but to be rejected and crucified. Because of
Christ’s supreme sacrifice, we are set free from death.

.LQJ-HVXVWKDQN<RXIRU<RXUVDFULILFHDQGWKHYLFWRU\
it brings to my life.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 3

The Farewell Prayer

When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his
H\HVWRKHDYHQDQGVDLGo)DWKHUWKHKRXUKDVFRPH
JORULI\\RXU6RQWKDWWKH6RQPD\JORULI\\RXp
JOHN 17:1 (ESV)

OFTEN CALLED THE “High Priestly Prayer,” the words in

John 17:1–26 capture Jesus’ prayer before His betrayal
and arrest. As Jesus faced His last days on earth, He
prayed for those who would be left behind. When Jesus
said, “None has been lost,” He meant all of us.

'HDU-HVXVKHOSPHOLYHP\OLIHWRJORULI\<RXDQGDOO<RX
KDYHGRQH

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 4

Do Beautiful Things
6KHGLGZKDWVKHFRXOG6KHSRXUHGSHUIXPHRQ
my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.
MARK 14:8 (NIV)

JESUS DESCRIBED THE woman who anointed Him

with expensive perfume as “doing what she could.”
Throughout God’s Word, we see beautiful examples
of people making the best of their resources to honor
Him. If you want to help a person or a cause, but feel
that you can’t because you lack the money or direction,
remember that when it comes to glorifying Him, your
best is always enough.

/RUGVKRZPHZKDW,FDQGRIRU<RXULJKWQRZWRGD\

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 5

The Crowning of the King

And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and
put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe.
JOHN 19:2 (ESV)

THE SOLDIERS MADE a crown of thorns to humiliate

Jesus. And yet, the crown is a reminder that Jesus
is the King. Christ, our Savior, endured the pain and
wore the crown of thorns for us. In the words of
hymn writer Thomas Kelly, “The head that once
was crowned with thorns is crowned with glory now; a
royal diadem adorns the mighty Victor’s brow.”

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUZRUGVFDQQRWH[SUHVVP\GHHSJUDWLWXGH
IRUDOO<RXKDYHGRQH

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 6

A Prayer for Holy Thursday

o$QGZKHQKHKDGJLYHQWKDQNVKHEURNH
LWDQGVDLGo7KLVLVP\ERG\ZKLFKLVIRU
\RXGRWKLVLQUHPHPEUDQFHRIPHp
1 CORINTHIANS 11:24 (NIV)

JESUS PREPARED FOR the cross and gave the apostles

the Lord’s Supper to remember Him. From that day
on, whenever His people gathered to break bread, they
would remember His body on the cross and His gift to
them.

Lord, I cannot fully comprehend the magnitude of Your

VDFULILFH+HOSPHOLYHP\OLIHLQUHPHPEUDQFHRI<RX

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 7

Honoring Good Friday

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EHOO\RIDKXJHILVKVRWKH6RQRI0DQZLOOEHWKUHH
days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
MATTHEW 12:40 (NIV)

JESUS’ FOLLOWERS THOUGHT it was the end of

everything on that solemn Friday. They were despondent,
convinced that death had won—and yet it was only the
beginning. In just three days, everything would turn
around. God was at work—they only needed to hold
onto the Resurrection.

'HDU /RUG ZKHQ , HQFRXQWHU GDUN )ULGD\V LQ P\ OLIHs

JXLGHPHWRIRFXVRQWKHJLIWRIEULJKW6XQGD\VDKHDG

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 8

He Will Make You Whole

They crucified two rebels with him, one
on his right and one on his left.
MARK 15:27 (NIV)

BOTH THIEVES ON the cross faced the decision to accept

or reject Jesus. One chose to mock Him while the other
begged to be remembered when Jesus entered His
kingdom. This Easter, firmly reclaim your choice and
courageously ask Jesus to make you whole.

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6DYLRU

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 9

Alleluia! Jesus Is Risen!

-HVXVVDLGWRKHUo,DPWKHUHVXUUHFWLRQDQGWKH
OLIH7KHRQHZKREHOLHYHVLQPHZLOOOLYHHYHQ
WKRXJKWKH\GLHDQGZKRHYHUOLYHVE\EHOLHYLQJ
LQPHZLOOQHYHUGLH'R\RXEHOLHYHWKLV"p
JOHN 11:25–26 (NIV)

IN THE WORDS of Rebecca Barlow Jordan, “Lord,

death could not hold You. And because of You, the
Resurrection, we, too, can live. Thank You that the
grave is only a journey into the presence of God. You
have removed the sting of death and empowered
this thing called life. Now I will live in Your presence
forever.”

0\/RUGDQG6DYLRUWRGD\,UHMRLFHDQGH[SHULHQFHWKH
Resurrection with new wonder.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 10

God Is All You Need

7KHQKHVDLGWRWKHPo:DWFKRXW%HRQ\RXU
JXDUGDJDLQVWDOONLQGVRIJUHHGOLIHGRHVQRW
FRQVLVWLQDQDEXQGDQFHRISRVVHVVLRQVp
LUKE 12:15 (NIV)

TRUE RICHNESS COMES from your relationship with God.

God wants you to be content not through belongings,
but in Him. When you feel envious of others and wish
you had what they have, focus on the blessings in your
life. God is everything you’ll ever need!

+HDYHQO\ )DWKHU JLYH PH D KHDUW RI JUDWLWXGH WKDW

recognizes that You bless me beyond measure.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 11

A Prayer to Embrace
Change
You were taught, with regard to your former way of
life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted
E\LWVGHFHLWIXOGHVLUHVWREHPDGHQHZLQWKHDWWLWXGH
RI\RXUPLQGVDQGWRSXWRQWKHQHZVHOIFUHDWHGWR
be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
EPHESIANS 4:22–24 (NIV)

GOD HAS A plan for your life that includes growth

and change. Yet many of us resist and fear anything
different—even when it’s a move toward something
better. God pushes us forward into new and sometimes
uncomfortable situations. Be open to opportunity, and
place God’s plan before yours.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHU,ZLOOVHHN<RXUZLOODQG<RXUZD\VIRU
my life.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 12

Center Your Heart

&RPPLW\RXUZD\WRWKH/RUGWUXVWLQKLPDQGKHZLOO
GRWKLV+HZLOOPDNH\RXUULJKWHRXVUHZDUGVKLQHOLNH
WKHGDZQ\RXUYLQGLFDWLRQOLNHWKHQRRQGD\VXQ
PSALM 37:5–6 (NIV)

WHEN YOU CENTER your heart on God, you can be sure

that He will guide you in countless ways. If you require
His guidance, pray: “Lord, you know my troubles.
Guide my thinking and help me do things Your way.”

Dear Lord, thank You for Your guidance and direction.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 13

Meditate on His Promises

My eyes stay open through the watches of the
night, that I may meditate on your promises.
PSALM 119:148 (NIV)

WHEN YOU NEED stability, focus on God’s desires instead

of your worries. Allow Him to speak to you through
Scripture. Fill your heart with His limitless potential.
He is at your right hand, and you will not be shaken.

Almighty God, You are my stronghold. I will rest in You

and be secure.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 14

A Heart of Wisdom
Teach us to number our days, that we
may gain a heart of wisdom.
PSALM 90:12 (NIV)

EVERY MORNING IS a fresh start—a new beginning filled

with hope. How well are you using your days? Fix your
eyes on God, and ask Him to give you wisdom and guide
you to not waste your time on things that don’t matter.

/RUGP\WLPHVSHQWZLWK<RXLVQHYHUZDVWHG)LOOPHZLWK
Your wisdom.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 15

God Will Help You

%XWKHVDLGWRPHo0\JUDFHLVVXIILFLHQWIRU
\RXIRUP\SRZHULVPDGHSHUIHFWLQZHDNQHVVp
Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my
ZHDNQHVVHVVRWKDW&KULVWnVSRZHUPD\UHVWRQPH
2 CORINTHIANS 12:9 (NIV)

WHEN YOU FEEL frustrated, reflect on this verse. Your

shortcomings can either defeat you or make you aware
of God’s strength. Invite Him to turn your vulnerability
into an opportunity to boost your faith and experience
His power. His steadfast love will hold you up.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUZKHQGRXEWILOOVP\PLQGKROGPHFORVH
3OHDVHILOOPHZLWKSHDFHDQGUHQHZHGKRSH<RXUFRPIRUWV
will delight me.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 16

The Secret to Success

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LVFRPPRQWRPDQNLQG$QG*RGLVIDLWKIXOKH
will not let you be tempted beyond what you can
EHDU%XWZKHQ\RXDUHWHPSWHGKHZLOODOVR
SURYLGHDZD\RXWVRWKDW\RXFDQHQGXUHLW
1 CORINTHIANS 10:13 (NIV)

GOD HAS GIVEN you unique talents and gifts. Are you
using them for His glory? Have you dedicated your
abilities and your future to Him? When you focus your
intention on serving God, you will always be successful.

Dear God, my steps are established by You. Guide me to

XVHP\JLIWVLQORYLQJVHUYLFHWRRWKHUV

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 17

He Will Always Protect You

:KRHYHUGZHOOVLQWKHVKHOWHURIWKH0RVW+LJK
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
PSALM 91:1 (NIV)

TO EXPERIENCE THE promises in Psalm 91, you must

dwell in the “secret place of the Most High” by spending
time alone in fellowship with God. When you do, you’ll
experience God’s protection, provision and blessing.

Dear God, I know that I am safe in Your shadow no matter

what perils or hardships I face.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 18

Breathe Life into

Your Faith
$OO6FULSWXUHLV*RGEUHDWKHGDQGLVXVHIXOIRUWHDFKLQJ
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16 (NIV)

GOD CONNECTS WITH you through the Bible. You

experience the joy of communing with Him each time
you read His Word. Warm your heart with His faithful
messages of love. Breathe life into your faith through
His timeless Word.

/RUG,DPVREOHVVHGE\P\UHODWLRQVKLSZLWK<RXIRUHYHU
transforming me into the best I can be.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 19

Choose Kindness
o'RQRWMXGJHRU\RXWRRZLOOEHMXGJHGp
MATTHEW 7:1 (NIV)

BEFORE YOU SPEAK, ask God to help you discern if your

input will be helpful or hurtful. Fight the temptation to
judge others and voice opposing opinions. Ask for His
help to accept others and to choose your words with
kindness.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHURSHQP\KHDUWWREHPRUHXQGHUVWDQGLQJ
and compassionate. Guide me to build others up and use
words that please You.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 2 0

Give from Your Heart

(DFKRI\RXVKRXOGJLYHZKDW\RXKDYHGHFLGHG
LQ\RXUKHDUWWRJLYHQRWUHOXFWDQWO\RUXQGHU
FRPSXOVLRQIRU*RGORYHVDFKHHUIXOJLYHU
2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 (NIV)

WHEN WAS THE last time you took a possession that

had real value for you and gave it away? To experience
true selfless giving, consider generously letting go of
something without thinking of what you might get in
return. Keep your gesture a secret between you and God.

/RUGKHOSPHJLYHJHQHURXVO\IURPWKHKHDUW+HOSPHOHW
JRRIDQ\WKLQJ,nPKROGLQJRQWRWRRWLJKWO\XQGHUVWDQGLQJ
WKDWOLIHnVJLIWVDUHPHDQWWREHVKDUHG

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 21

Swept Away Like a Cloud

o,KDYHVZHSWDZD\\RXURIIHQVHVOLNHD
cloud, your sins like the morning mist.
5HWXUQWRPHIRU,KDYHUHGHHPHG\RXp
ISAIAH 44:22 (NIV)

SOMETIMES IT CAN take a long time to process and

move beyond your resentments. Instead of focusing on
betrayal, center your heart on the Lord’s forgiveness
and willingness to sweep away offenses like a cloud.
Praise Him for His grace.

Lord, when I struggle with letting go of my pain, open my

KHDUWWRIRUJLYHDV\RXIRUJLYH

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 2 2

Prayer for Earth Day

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founded the world by his wisdom and stretched
RXWWKHKHDYHQVE\KLVXQGHUVWDQGLQJ
JEREMIAH 10:12 (NIV)

GOD PLACED HUMANKIND on this earth to be the

caretakers of the world. Today, on Earth Day, look for
ways to help the gift of His creation—and make a habit
of looking for ways that you can continually honor His
mighty works.

Dear Lord, You founded the world by Your wisdom. Guide

me to do my part in protecting the earth, and help me make
choices that support the future of our planet.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 2 3

Your Holy Anchor

:HKDYHWKLVKRSHDVDQDQFKRUIRUWKHVRXO
firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary
behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus,
KDVHQWHUHGRQRXUEHKDOI+HKDVEHFRPHDKLJK
SULHVWIRUHYHULQWKHRUGHURI0HOFKL]HGHN
HEBREWS 6:19–20 (NIV)

JESUS IS YOUR holy Anchor. When the storms of this

world ravage your security and make you feel like
you’ve lost all control—hold on to Him. He will not slip
or fall in life’s ups and downs. He will keep you from
being swept away into a whirlwind of worry and fear.

/RUGZKHQFLUFXPVWDQFHVWKUHDWHQP\OLYHOLKRRGVHFXUH
PH)LOOP\VRXOZLWKKRSH

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 24

The Benefits of
Tests of Faith
)RU\RX*RGWHVWHGXV\RXUHILQHGXVOLNHVLOYHU
PSALM 66:10 (NIV)

IT MIGHT NOT always feel like it, but situations and

circumstances that test your faith are refining moments
that lead to lasting growth and goodness. On your
arduous journey, you learn to trust God and rely on
His strength and grace to purify your spirit.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHU,NQRZDEOHVVLQJDZDLWVDWWKHHQGRI
HYHU\EXPS\URDG

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 2 5

God Chooses You

%XW\RXDUHDFKRVHQSHRSOHDUR\DOSULHVWKRRG
DKRO\QDWLRQ*RGnVVSHFLDOSRVVHVVLRQWKDW\RX
may declare the praises of him who called you
out of darkness into his wonderful light.
1 PETER 2:9 (NIV)

GOD HAS A specific purpose for you. He has called

you to live a faith-filled life in His marvelous light.
Reflect on this truth when you feel passed over for a
promotion or left out by a friend. God chooses you as
an irreplaceable, unique and influential person in His
Kingdom.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUKHOSPHGLVFRYHUP\SXUSRVHDQGZDON
in line with it.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 2 6

God Cannot Lie

God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which
LWLVLPSRVVLEOHIRU*RGWROLHZHZKRKDYHIOHGWRWDNH
hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged.
HEBREWS 6:18 (NIV)

LET THE WORDS of this verse sink into your mind

and heart. Trust the two unchangeable things: God’s
promise and His oath. Though people can be dishonest
and deceitful, God will never lie to you. His Word and
messages are always honest and trustworthy. So when
you are confused about where to turn—and whom to
trust—go to God. Trust Him.

God of Truth, thank You for Your promises that I trust and
can count on.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 27

Big Thanks for

Little Things
2QHSHUVRQSUHWHQGVWREHULFK\HWKDVQRWKLQJ
another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.
PROVERBS 13:7 (NIV)

THOMAS SECKER, THE former Archbishop of Canterbury,

said, “He enjoys much who is thankful for little.” An
easy way to experience great joy is to thank God for
the little things in life. Express your gratitude for God’s
gifts of small blessings.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUEHFDXVHRI<RX,DPULFKZLWKELJDQG
small blessings.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 2 8

Arbor Day Prayer

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WKDWEULQJHWKIRUWKKLVIUXLWLQKLVVHDVRQKLVOHDIDOVR
VKDOOQRWZLWKHUDQGZKDWVRHYHUKHGRHWKVKDOOSURVSHU
PSALM 1:3 (KJV)

DID YOU KNOW that trees are mentioned in the Bible

more than any living thing other than God and His
people? God had a fantastic plan when He created
trees—giving us oxygen, shade, fruit and beauty! Today
on Arbor Day, reflect on an important tree in your life—
perhaps one in your neighborhood you admire or in
your childhood backyard. Thank God for His gracious
provision.

Lord, planting a tree is an act of faith and hope, a way of

planning for a better tomorrow.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A PR I L 2 9

Breathe New Life

into Your Faith
$OO6FULSWXUHLV*RGEUHDWKHGDQGLVXVHIXOIRUWHDFKLQJ
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.
2 TIMOTHY 3:16 (NIV)

GOD CONNECTS WITH you through the Bible. Each

time you read His Word, you experience the joy of
communing with Him as you gain understanding,
guidance and wisdom. Warm your heart with His
faithful messages of love. Breathe new life into your
faith through His timeless Word.

Lord, I am so blessed by Your Word, which transforms me

into the best I can be.

REFLECTIONS

APRIL 2023
 A PR I L 3 0

Blessed by His Prayers

o0\SUD\HULVQRWIRUWKHPDORQH,SUD\DOVRIRUWKRVH
ZKRZLOOEHOLHYHLQPHWKURXJKWKHLUPHVVDJHp
JOHN 17:20 (NIV)

THIS BEAUTIFUL VERSE reveals this humbling and

magnificent truth: Jesus prays for you! So take that
comforting message to heart: Jesus continues to plead
for you before the throne of His Father. The Son of God
prays for you!

/RUG WKDQN <RX IRU VKRZHULQJ PH ZLWK <RXU ORYH DQG
SUD\HUV

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 A Prayer
for May
The year’s at the spring,
And day’s at the morn;
Morning’s at seven;
The hillside’s dew-pearled;
The lark’s on the wing;
The snail’s on the thorn;
God’s in his Heaven—
All’s right with the world!
— Robert Browning
 M AY 1

All Is Well
7KHIORZHUVDSSHDURQWKHHDUWKWKHWLPHRI
WKHVLQJLQJRIELUGVLVFRPHDQGWKHYRLFH
of the turtle is heard in our land.
SONG OF SOLOMON 2:12 (KJV)

THE FLOWERS APPEARING in spring are a symbol of

faith, a beautiful reminder that even though you may
be feeling down or out of sorts, the earth is in order and
on schedule. If your faith is low and hope seems futile,
hold on! God will renew your spirit when the time is
right.

/RUGZKHQ,VWUXJJOHJLYHPHWKHIDLWKWREHOLHYH+HOS
me bloom.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 2

Reward Yourself
7KHRQHZKRJHWVZLVGRPORYHVOLIHWKHRQHZKR
cherishes understanding will soon prosper.
PROVERBS 19:8 (NIV)

ARE YOU A good friend to yourself? Do you ever reward

yourself by doing something that makes your spirit soar
and your heart sing? Reflect on your accomplishments
and the many life lessons you have learned. Treat
yourself. You deserve it.

'HDU*RGVRPHWLPHV,SXWP\VHOIDWWKHHQGRIP\WRGR
list. Today, help me remember that being good to myself is
essential for my wellbeing.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 3

The Power of Personal

Experience
3UDLVHEHWRWKH*RGDQG)DWKHURIRXU/RUG-HVXV
&KULVWWKH)DWKHURIFRPSDVVLRQDQGWKH*RGRI
all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles,
so that we can comfort those in any trouble with
WKHFRPIRUWZHRXUVHOYHVUHFHLYHIURP*RG
2 CORINTHIANS 1:3–4 (NIV)

SOMEONE SAID, “THE courage it takes to share your

story might be the very thing someone else needs to
open their heart to hope.” Reflect on your life, and ask
Jesus to help you find ways to inspire others and give
them hope by sharing a personal experience.

Dear Lord, guide me to bless others with my story.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 4

You Will Reap the

Songs of Joy
7KRVHZKRVRZZLWKWHDUVZLOOUHDSZLWKVRQJVRIMR\
PSALM 126:5 (NIV)

WHEN YOU ARE in a dark place of loss, you might be

tempted to think things will never get better. When
negativity enters your mind, turn to God. Ask Him
to open your heart to new beginnings. Trust that the
future will be bright. He will hold your hand and lead
you to loving and enriching experiences.

'HDU/RUGZKHQP\KHDUWLVKHDY\ZLWKJULHIILOOPHZLWK
<RXUSHDFHDQGUHDVVXUHPHRIWKHEULJKWIXWXUH<RXKDYH
planned for me.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 5

The Importance
of Being There
,KDYHPXFKWRZULWHWR\RXEXW,GRQRWZDQWWRXVH
SDSHUDQGLQN,QVWHDG,KRSHWRYLVLW\RXDQGWDON
ZLWK\RXIDFHWRIDFHVRWKDWRXUMR\PD\EHFRPSOHWH
2 JOHN 1:12 (NIV)

IN THE ABOVE verse, John touches on the complete

joy of sharing one another’s company face to face. As
technology has evolved, communication has shifted,
and we often spend time texting or messaging on social
media. Today, plan on experiencing the joy of looking
into a loved one’s eyes as you share your time.

Dear Lord, help me show the important people in my life

KRZPXFK,ORYHWKHP

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 6

Fear Not
Then you will prosper if you are careful to
REVHUYHWKHVWDWXWHVDQGWKHUXOHVWKDWWKH/RUG
FRPPDQGHG0RVHVIRU,VUDHO%HVWURQJDQG
FRXUDJHRXV)HDUQRWGRQRWEHGLVPD\HG
1 CHRONICLES 22:13 (ESV)

WORRY TAKES A tremendous amount of energy and

often robs us of sleep and joy. Pray for the strength to
follow the Lord’s instruction and let go of your fears.
Take His words to heart—“Fear not!”—and feel a spark
of excitement grow into joy.

/RUGIRUJLYHPHIRUQRWWUXVWLQJ<RXZLWKP\ZRUULHV,
UHOHDVHP\IHDUDQGDFFHSW<RXUMR\

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 7

Shine His Light

on Dark Thoughts
$WPLGQLJKW,ZLOOULVHWRJLYHWKDQNVXQWR
WKHHEHFDXVHRIWK\ULJKWHRXVMXGJPHQWV
PSALM 119:62 (KJV)

OFTEN THINGS THAT keep us up at night lose their

significance and power in the light of day. The lonely
hours of the night can break down our defenses and
make us feel hopeless. God and strong faith are the
cure for dark thoughts. His Word is a beacon of hope.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHU,NQRZ<RXDUHZLWKPHJXLGLQJPHWR
HPEUDFHOLIHnVMRXUQH\HYHQWKURXJKWKHORQHOLQHVVRIGDUN
nights.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 8

Shake the Dust Off

If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words,
OHDYHWKDWKRPHRUWRZQDQGVKDNHWKHGXVWRII\RXUIHHW
MATTHEW 10:14 (NIV)

WHEN JESUS SENT the disciples to spread the Gospel,

He knew that they would not always be welcome. His
advice when this happened was to move on and keep
going. Is there something in your life that you are
clinging to that may just be a waste of time? Reflect on
what is blocking you from moving forward. Shake the
dust off your feet.

Lord, help me discern what I should let go of. Guide me

IRUZDUGRQP\IDLWKMRXUQH\

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 9

Tune in to God’s Gifts

(DUVWKDWKHDUDQGH\HVWKDWVHHs
the Lord has made them both.
PROVERBS 20:12 (NIV)

GOD SENDS SMALL miracles to brighten every day. Do

you notice them? The next time you experience a little
blessing—a parking spot that opens up, a beautiful
dragonfly that lands on your window, or a meaningful
song that pops up on the radio just as you tune the
dial—thank Him for shining His light on your life.

'HDU /RUG <RXU ILQJHUSULQWV DUH DOO DURXQG PH *LYH

me ears that hear and eyes that see Your many wondrous
blessings.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 10

True Friends
:KHQ-REnVWKUHHIULHQGV(OLSKD]WKH7HPDQLWH%LOGDG
WKH6KXKLWHDQG=RSKDUWKH1DDPDWKLWHKHDUGDERXW
all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out
from their homes and met together by agreement to
go and sympathize with him and comfort him.
JOB 2:11 (NIV)

JOB’S THREE FRIENDS took time away from their homes

to go and comfort him. When someone you love is going
through a difficult time, reach out to them, and show
up for them. Let them know that you are there for them
and that you care.

+HDYHQO\ )DWKHU ZKHQ , DP FRQVLGHULQJ V\PSDWKL]LQJ

from afar, lead me to reach out and be present.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 11

The Quiet Life

0DNHLW\RXUJRDOWROLYHDTXLHWOLIHPLQGLQJ
your own business and working with your
KDQGVMXVWDVZHLQVWUXFWHG\RXEHIRUH
1 THESSALONIANS 4:11 (NLT)

IN PAUL’S LETTER, he described the importance of

striving to lead a quiet life. Are you ready to invest the
time to be still and peaceful? As you deepen the roots
of your faith, you will discover the beautiful mystery of
His presence.

/RUG,GRQnWZDQWWRVSHQGP\OLIHIUDQWLFDOO\SXUVXLQJ
VRPHWKLQJ WKDW OHDYHV PH UHVWOHVV DQG H[KDXVWHG *XLGH
PHWROLYHDTXLHWOLIH

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 12

Choose to Forgive
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and
MXVWDQGZLOOIRUJLYHXVRXUVLQVDQG
purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 JOHN 1:9 (NIV)

WHEN SOMEONE HAS wronged you, you have a choice.

Brood over your anger and hurt feelings, or dig deep
into your heart and forgive the offense. Rather than
staying fixed in your rage—grow spiritually and begin
the healing process. Forgive.

+HDYHQO\ )DWKHU KHOS PH UHFRJQL]H WKDW KROGLQJ RQ WR

anger limits my future and growth, and keeps me stuck in
QHJDWLYHWKLQNLQJ

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 13

Rest for Your Soul

7KHQ-HVXVVDLGo&RPHWRPHDOORI\RXZKRDUH
ZHDU\DQGFDUU\KHDY\EXUGHQVDQG,ZLOOJLYH
you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach
you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and
\RXZLOOILQGUHVWIRU\RXUVRXOV)RUP\\RNHLV
HDV\WREHDUDQGWKHEXUGHQ,JLYH\RXLVOLJKWp
MATTHEW 11:28–30 (NLT)

IN THE ABOVE verse, Jesus calls us to take on His yoke,

and promises that His work will be easy to bear, for
He is humble and gentle at heart. When you commit
to Him, you are relieved of carrying your heavy
burdens. He will give your spirit rest.

'HDU /RUG WKDQN <RX IRU VKRZLQJ PH WKDW OLYLQJ E\
IDLWK LV HDVLHU WKDQ FDUU\LQJ WKH KHDY\ EXUGHQ RI VHOI
righteousness.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 14

Bless Mothers Everywhere

As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you.
ISAIAH 66:13 (ESV)

AUTHOR LYSA TERKEURST wrote, “Motherhood is a

million little moments that God weaves together with
grace, redemption, laughter, tears, and most of all,
love.” Today, on Mother’s Day, celebrate the woman who
comforted you, nurtured you and made a significant
and lasting difference in your life.

'HDU*RGWRGD\DQGHYHU\GD\EOHVVPRWKHUVHYHU\ZKHUH

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 15

Keys to the World

God blesses those who mourn, for they will be
comforted. God blesses those who are humble,
for they will inherit the whole earth.
MATTHEW 5:4–5 (NLT)

JESUS TELLS HIS followers that the people who

experience the deep mourning of sin—and the version
of themselves that turns their back on God—will
receive His comfort and will be reminded that God is
in control over even life’s most challenging situations.
They will become overcomers!

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUZKHQ,DPWHPSWHGWRPDNHFKRLFHVWKDW
turn my heart away from You, right my way and hold me
close.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 16

The Joy of Living

The path of the righteous is like the morning sun,
VKLQLQJHYHUEULJKWHUWLOOWKHIXOOOLJKWRIGD\
PROVERBS 4:18 (NIV)

THIS TIME OF year, the sun is glorious, and just sitting

in the warmth of its rays can boost your mood. In
the above verse, Solomon compares the joy of living
a righteous life with the refreshing and comforting
feeling of soaking up the sun.

Dear Lord, when my thoughts and actions align with Your

:RUG,IHHOWKHZDUPWKRI<RXUORYHLQP\KHDUW

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 17

Praise for His

Unfailing Goodness
$QGKHSDVVHGLQIURQWRI0RVHVSURFODLPLQJo7KH
Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,
VORZWRDQJHUDERXQGLQJLQORYHDQGIDLWKIXOQHVVp
EXODUS 34:6 (NIV)

THE BIBLE PROVIDES many examples of giving praise

and thanks even during the most challenging times.
Reflect on Jesus giving thanks for the food and drink
right before He was given to the Roman authorities.
Or Job, who despite great suffering did not curse God.
Or the Psalmist, who gave thanks even though he faced
injustice. Thankfulness is rooted in the firm faith that
God’s nature is one of unfailing goodness.

Lord, I trust You and praise You for your infinite kindness.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 18

Seek Justice
'RQRWSHUYHUWMXVWLFHGRQRWVKRZSDUWLDOLW\WRWKHSRRU
RUIDYRULWLVPWRWKHJUHDWEXWMXGJH\RXUQHLJKERUIDLUO\
LEVITICUS 19:15 (NIV)

TREATING PEOPLE FAIRLY is an important part of

living in a community. Do you seek justice in your
community? Do you address prejudices and work for
righteousness in your neighborhood? God has created
all humans in His image, and all deserve to be treated
fairly, honestly and justly.

/RUG<RXORYHDOOSHRSOHZLWK<RXUSHUIHFWORYH6KRZPH
ZKHUHP\WLPHLVQHHGHG,ZDQWWRVHUYHE\KHOSLQJRWKHUV

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 19

Fellowship with the Lord

:HSURFODLPWR\RXZKDWZHKDYHVHHQDQGKHDUGVRWKDW
\RXDOVRPD\KDYHIHOORZVKLSZLWKXV$QGRXUIHOORZVKLS
LVZLWKWKH)DWKHUDQGZLWKKLV6RQ-HVXV&KULVW
1 JOHN 1:3 (NIV)

STRIVE TO HAVE fellowship with God every day. Open

your heart and pray to know His will for you; through
the power of the Holy Spirit, you will be renewed. Ask
for comfort and peace for all those in distress. Ask Him
to lead them forward to joy.

O Lord my God, I am ready to heed your commands. I seek

Your priorities for my life.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 2 0

Before You Even Pray

%HIRUHWKH\FDOO,ZLOODQVZHUZKLOHWKH\
are still speaking I will hear.
ISAIAH 65:24 (NIV)

GOD KNOWS WHAT you need. Sometimes He answers

prayers before they are even prayed. Release your
concerns and center your heart on Him. Be patient and
trust Him to give you what you need. Even when His
answers differ from your desires, continue to believe
and trust Him.

+HDYHQO\ )DWKHU LW LV WKURXJK P\ SUD\HUV WR <RX WKDW ,
NQRZ<RXEHWWHUHYHU\GD\

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 21

God’s Unshakeable
Presence
/HW\RXUJHQWOHQHVVEHHYLGHQWWRDOO7KH/RUGLVQHDU
'RQRWEHDQ[LRXVDERXWDQ\WKLQJEXWLQHYHU\
situation, by prayer and petition, with
WKDQNVJLYLQJSUHVHQW\RXUUHTXHVWVWR*RG
PHILIPPIANS 4:5–6 (NIV)

EVERYONE KNOWS THAT trust builds over time. Reflect

on your life and the many times God helped you out
of a bind or gave you wisdom and perseverance to
overcome difficult circumstances. Know that His love
for you is infinite and unshakable. When you knock, He
will open the door.

Dear God, my soul waits upon You. I trust that You will
always answer me.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 2 2

Calm Your Worries

o7KH/RUG\RXU*RGLVZLWK\RXWKH0LJKW\
:DUULRUZKRVDYHV+HZLOOWDNHJUHDWGHOLJKW
LQ\RXLQKLVORYHKHZLOOQRORQJHUUHEXNH\RX
EXWZLOOUHMRLFHRYHU\RXZLWKVLQJLQJp
ZEPHANIAH 3:17 (NIV)

THE PROPHET ZEPHANIAH warned others that a day

of judgment would come. Yet there was no reason to
fear, because God had chosen them and received them.
When fear enters your heart, pray. Ask Him to calm
your worries.

Lord, work in me to change my emotions. I ask for Your

peace to guard my heart and mind.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 2 3

The Way to Happiness

)RUDVKHWKLQNVLQKLVKHDUWVRLVKH
PROVERBS 23:7 (NKJV)

NORMAN VINCENT PEALE wrote, “The way to happiness:

Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry.
Live simply. Expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine,
forget yourself, and think of others. Try this for a week,
and you will be surprised.” Be aware of how your
thoughts shape your future and look to God to help you
believe in your abilities to become the best you.

Dear Lord, when I get bogged down with worry and make
WKLQJVGLIILFXOWJXLGHPHEDFNWROLYLQJDQGORYLQJ

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 24

Your Heavenly Connection

3HDFH,OHDYHZLWK\RXP\SHDFH,JLYH\RX
,GRQRWJLYHWR\RXDVWKHZRUOGJLYHV'RQRWOHW
your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
JOHN 14:27 (NIV)

GOD IS WITH you every minute, every hour of every day.

He is always present, protecting you in His daily care.
Whenever you feel stressed or in danger, think of this
verse and believe in Christ’s promise of peace.

Almighty God, I abandon my wants for Your will. Infuse

me with Your peace.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 2 5

Your Heart, His Home

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources
he will empower you with inner strength
WKURXJKKLV6SLULW7KHQ&KULVWZLOOPDNHKLV
home in your hearts as you trust in him.
EPHESIANS 3:16–17 (NLT)

THIS COMFORTING PASSAGE tells you that all you need

to do is trust in the Lord, and you heart will become His
home. Close your eyes and receive the gift of His love
gratefully. Know that you are being transformed from
the inside out.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHUSOHDVHJXLGHPHWRRSHQP\KHDUWWRWKH
EULJKWJORU\RI<RXUORYH

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 2 6

Beautifully Made
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
:RQGHUIXODUH\RXUZRUNVP\VRXONQRZVLWYHU\ZHOO
PSALM 139:14 (ESV)

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL and worthy of God’s love. He

made you, and he chose you. Whenever you struggle
with feeling insecure and less than the exquisite and
amazing person that you are—turn to this Scripture
and thank God for this comforting truth.

You are my helper, Lord. When I am feeling down about

P\VHOI UDLVH P\ VSLULWV E\ UHPLQGLQJ PH , DP MXVW DV ,
should be, perfectly made by You.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 27

To Seek and to Save

o)RUWKH6RQRI0DQFDPHWRVHHNDQGWRVDYHWKHORVWp
LUKE 19:10 (NIV)

JESUS FOCUSED ON helping those who needed Him

most. He came to save the lost. He reached out and
touched them so that they would know His grace. When
you need help, call out to Him. He will save you.

/RUGWKDQN<RXIRUEULQJLQJVDOYDWLRQWRDOO<RXUSHRSOH

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 2 8

No Unanswered Prayers
%XW-HVXVJDYHKHUQRUHSO\QRWHYHQDZRUG
Then his disciples urged him to send her
DZD\o7HOOKHUWRJRDZD\pWKH\VDLGo6KH
LVERWKHULQJXVZLWKDOOKHUEHJJLQJp
MATTHEW 15:23 (NLT)

AT ONE TIME or another everyone has had that terrible

feeling that God is ignoring them. Perhaps it’s a prayer
request that has been in your heart for years. After a
while, it’s tempting to simply give up. Instead, ask Him
to help you use your struggle to grow your faith.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHU,WUXVW<RXUPHUFLIXOQDWXUHDQGWUXVW
WKHUHLVDOZD\VDUHDVRQsDQGDQDQVZHUsWKDWILWV<RXU
plan.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 2 9

Prayer for Memorial Day

*UHDWHUORYHKDVQRRQHWKDQWKLVWROD\
GRZQRQHnVOLIHIRURQHnVIULHQGV
JOHN 15:13 (NIV)

TODAY, REMEMBER THOSE who gave the greatest

sacrifice for our country. We hold them in our hearts
and thank them for their courage and sacrifice. We
pray for the families of our troops and ask for God’s
comfort and blessings to fill their homes.

Dear Lord, I remember and honor the men and women

ZKRGLHGVHUYLQJRXUFRXQWU\SOHDVHFRPIRUWWKHLUORYHG
ones.

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 M AY 3 0

God’s Perfect Timing

2/RUG,DPFDOOLQJWR\RX3OHDVHKXUU\
/LVWHQZKHQ,FU\WR\RXIRUKHOS
PSALM 141:1 (NLT)

SOMETIMES WHEN YOU cry out for help, you experience

immediate relief—but other times, discomfort lasts
much longer than you would like. You might worry that
God doesn’t hear you. Rest assured, He is near, and
from an eternal perspective, His timing is always right.

+HDYHQO\)DWKHU,NQRZ<RXKHDUP\SUD\HUV7HDFKPH
to trust Your timing.

REFLECTIONS

MAY 2023
 M AY 31

Follow His Path

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth
FRPSDULQJZLWKWKHJORU\WKDWZLOOEHUHYHDOHGLQXV
ROMANS 8:18 (NIV)

APPROACH TODAY WITH peace and hope, knowing that

there is no need to struggle against the things you
cannot control. By navigating the tough times, you
learn that God always infuses your day with beauty—
and following His path leads to the glory of heaven.

Lord God, because of You I am secure and at peace. I look

IRUZDUGWRWKHQHZWKLQJV<RXKDYHSODQQHGIRUPH

REFLECTIONS

60 DAYS OF PRAYER
 Acknowledgments

Copyright © 2023 by Guideposts. All rights reserved. This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced,
stored in retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, without the written permission of the publisher.

Every attempt has been made to credit the sources of copyrighted material used in this book. If any such
acknowledgment has been inadvertently omitted or miscredited, receipt of such information would be appre-
ciated.

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are taken from the +RO\%LEOH(QJOLVK6WDQGDUG9HUVLRQ. Copyright © 2001
by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the .LQJ-DPHV9HUVLRQRIWKH%LEOH.

Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from 7KH+RO\%LEOH1HZ.LQJ-DPHV9HUVLRQ. Copyright © 1982
by Thomas Nelson.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from 7KH+RO\%LEOH1HZ,QWHUQDWLRQDO9HUVLRQ. Copyright © 1973,
1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. zondervan.com.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the +RO\%LEOH1HZ/LYLQJ7UDQVODWLRQ. Copyright © 1996,
2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream,
Illinois. All rights reserved.

Our mission is to inspire people to believe anything is possible with faith, hope, and prayer.

Printed and bound in the United States of America.

Credits: Cover photo: fotohunter/Shutterstock.com; April opener photo: pkanchana on Getty Images; May
opener photo: Alexlukin on Getty Images; Editor: Sabra Ciancanelli; Graphic Designer: Beth Meyer; Typesetter:
Aptara, Inc.; Copy Editors: Olivia Abel, Camille Lofters
156-6028

I praise you because I am fearfully

and wonderfully made; your works are
wonderful, I know that full well.
PSALM 139:14 (NIV)