Lord, I have been so remiss 

   about having quality time for You, 

   with You, my Creator and Sustainer. 

Forgive me.

When I am not putting You first,

      I get into trouble with myself and my relationships.

      I become dissatisfied with my life,

          … wallow in self pity,

          …become ugly and nasty,                                                  

          … feel inferior and worthless.

Lord, help me remember

      I cannot bring honor and glory

          to Your name

          when I am so negative. 

I hurt others and myself unnecessarily

           --actions that make me  feel

           more disgusted with myself.         

Forgive me.

Remind me that I am Your child, 
       Your beloved. 

What joy it is to know this;

       but, even knowing this,

       I continue to let petty slights 

       hurt and sour my day.  

Let me look up, not down.

Let me look inward and find rest and peace for my soul.  

Remind me  I have been created

     to glorify you  

     to do all things

    in accordance with Your will.  

    I am here to serve, not to be served.

    I am to be Your hands and feet, Lord;  

    I need Your strength and guidance.   

Thank you for my family, 

     for a husband who has loved me over fifty years, 

     for grandchildren who love us, 

     for daughters who bless us, 

    for sons-in-law who value their wives and children, 

    for friends, 

    for my church and church family, 

    for blessings innumerable.  (July 21, 2016)