Introduction

Prayer is our lifeline. The finished work of Jesus on the cross made it possible for us to have instant access to God. Cultivating a real and meaningful relationship with ANYONE requires regular interaction. A deep friendship is not something that happens with one or two encounters. It takes an investment of time. It takes proper communication. It takes hard work. Talking with God in prayer takes discipline and effort. It requires planning ahead, or as the Psalmist states, ordering our prayers:

Give ear to my words, O LORD, Consider my groaning. Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to You I pray. In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. ~ Psalm 5:1-3

Ordering prayers means that we should not just aimlessly wander through our prayer time, but rather be organized in our thoughts as we bring our prayers to the Lord. This study/prayer guide is meant to help us to order our prayer time wisely as we pray for character development, not only for ourselves, but also for our family.

This guide should not be used as a substitute for our regular times of prayer and fellowship with God, but rather as a compliment to it. Praying for our character development should be one small portion of our quiet devotional time. Our prayer time should consist of adoration and praise to God for who He is and what He has done. When we approach God in prayer, there ought to be a reverent spirit of worship knowing that we are in the holy presence of the Maker of Heaven and Earth, our Creator, Redeemer, Savior, Judge and Friend.

Our personal communication with the Lord should also include confession and mourning over specific sins because we know that He will not regard our prayers if we are holding onto any known sins (Psalm 66:18). Our prayers ought to be characterized by gratefulness: joyous thanksgiving to The Lord for His amazing gifts, especially that of salvation and eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ. And we should make our requests known to God, asking for those things that would be in accordance with His will. It is God’s will for us to be Christ-like. If Christ exhibited character traits like gentleness and love and courage, and we are to be Christ-like, does it not follow that we should be praying for personal development in these important aspects that make up who we are? Our character is what largely defines our testimony. We have been exhorted in God’s Word to walk in a manner worth of the gospel (Ephesians 4:1; Philippians 1:27). To do this, we have some work to do, and the place to start is in prayer.

Praying to have a better character should not be a selfish activity. While it is beneficial for us to improve in qualities such as kindness, diligence and compassion, we have fallen tragically short if we have only enhanced our personal character. The most important end result of praying for these character traits, and really anything we do, is that we would bring glory to God (Colossians 3:17).

To help us to pray, thirty character traits have be selected – one for each day of the month. The goal is to pray specifically for one trait per day, and at the beginning of the next month start over again. While these thirty character traits are not an exhaustive list, many will overlap into other areas that are important to pray for. Each day’s assigned topic will contain a brief definition, a list of ideas to pray about regarding the topic, Bible verses that are related to the day’s character trait and then a profound quote related to what we are praying for. All of this should help in facilitating our prayer time for each day. If each day is well organized in this fashion, there is less likelihood that our prayers will be aimless and wandering.

Since God is our Heavenly Father, and we are His adopted sons and daughters (Ephesians 1:5), we know we can come boldly, but humbly, before Him and confidently ask Him for what we seek as long as it is according to His will (Matthew 7:7-8; Hebrews 4:16).

We dare not come to God half-hearted. Let our prayers ignite with power and passion. Let’s approach God without wavering, watchfully, expectantly and full of faith.

Passion for God

• A strong desire and enthusiasm to be near God; a deep affection for the Lord and craving to know more of Him; an excitement to tell others of His love, His grace, His mercy and His forgiveness.
• Love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
• A longing and a yearning for deep and intimate friendship with Jesus Christ.
• Treasure the Lord God above all things by removing those things that taken His place in our lives and detract from His glory.
• Intense desire to know God more through a vigorous study of His Word.
• Commitment to fellowship with God in meaningful, sincere, regular prayer.
• Find joy and peace resting in the Lord’s care, recognizing that He is all-sufficient.
• Boldly and unashamedly defend and protect the sacred name and honor of my Savior.
• Realize that Jesus Christ is altogether lovely, worshiping Him in the beauty of His holiness.

Psalm 27:4 – One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek : That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple.

Psalm 42:1-2a – As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
Psalm 63:1 – O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Philippians 3:10 – That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death.

God is mightily honored when a people know that they will die of hunger and thirst unless they have God. ~ John Piper, God’s Passion for His Glory, page 41

Passion for God’s Word

• A deep hunger and thirst for the Word of God; intense longing to attain the knowledge that leads to a right relationship with Him; eagerly longing to spend time in the scriptures.
• Remember and be thankful that the Bible is the very oracles of God. God’s message to us! Worthy of diligent study and meditation.
• Repent of the dangerous neglect of regular Bible study.
• Take the necessary measures to eliminate distractions.
• Develop a deep reverence for God’s Word and tremble with every turn of the page.
• Learn to properly interpret the scriptures to avoid falling into error.
• View the scriptures as new and fresh with each encounter.
• Regard God’s Word as precious and of inestimable worth. Consider it as a never-ending well of nourishment and endless source of refreshment for our souls.
• Always remember that God’s Word is the never-changing, always-sufficient source of truth.

1 Peter 2:2 – Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation.
Job 23:12 – I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
Colossians 3:16 – Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.
Psalm 119:47,97 – I shall delight in Your commandments, Which I love. O how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day.

How one views scripture will determine the rest of one’s theology. There is no more basic issue: Every system of thought that takes seriously the claims of the Bible to be the inspired, authoritative Word of God will share a commitment to particular central truths, and that without compromise.  ~ James R. White, Scripture Alone, page 43

Humility

• Lowliness of mind; a proper estimation of oneself, especially when comparing the stance of the creature before the Creator
• Do not think more highly of ourselves than we ought to think (Romans 12:3).
• Realize that humility is required by God (Micah 6:8).
• Remember that all Christian virtues are preceded with a humble heart.
• Pray that we would show love as a result of our humility (1 Corinthians 13).
• Choose humility over honor (Proverbs 15:33; 18:12).
• Do not consider ourselves above doing any task, no matter how menial.
• Remember that pride is the root of destruction and that riches, honor and life are the rewards for humility (Proverbs 16:18).
• Know that humility is a pre-requisite to understand the Word and to be saved (James 1:21).

Psalm 144:3-4 – O LORD, what is man, that You take knowledge of him? Or the son of man, that You think of him? Man is like a mere breath; His days are like a passing shadow.
Matthew 5:3 – Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Philippians 2:3-4 – Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
Colossians 3:12 – So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
1 Peter 5:5-6 – You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time.

You must grow downwards, that you may grow upwards; for the sweetest fellowship with heaven is to be had by humble souls, and by them alone. God will deny no blessing to a thoroughly humbled spirit.
~ Charles H. Spurgeon, Morning and Evening, April 5

Holiness

Set apart, consecrated to God; to be different, separate and morally blameless. Separation unto God and the resulting conduct and personal character that follows.
Develop a character that always exemplifies integrity and honesty.
Increase in our love toward Jesus Christ, loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
Develop an acute hatred for sin, fighting against evil by the power of the Spirit.
Hungering, thirsting and growing in absolute righteousness.
Increasing in humility, and destroying pride in our lives.
A fixation on purity in our thoughts and actions.
Increased vigilance – watch/fight/pray.
Practice of self-denial. Learning to say ‘no’, putting away our selfish desires.
A renewed commitment to moral excellence: purity of thought, clean speech and dignified behavior.
A willingness to forgive others and not holding onto grudges.
That the Biblical disciplines of stewardship, prayer and fellowship would be regular parts of our lives.
Hebrews 12:14 – Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.
1 Peter 1:13-16 – Prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”
Romans 6:19 – For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification.
Believers are taught to use active personal exertion, and are addressed as responsible for doing energetically what Christ would have them to do, and are not told to ‘yield themselves’ up as passive agents and sit still, but to arise and work. A holy violence, a conflict, a warfare, a fight, a soldier’s life, a wrestling are spoken of as characteristic of the true Christian. ~ J.C. Ryle, Holiness, page ix

Love
Sacrifice of self for the sake of others; a willingness to put others first; more concerned with giving than receiving; love is demonstrated by action
Show love in a tangible way by learning to sacrifice, not out of obligation, but from a heart of delight.
Loathe pride and arrogance – become less selfish and more selfless.
Do not hold onto personal hurts – no grudges!
Seek to be a peacemaker. Do not spread gossip or rumors. Don’t feed the argument.
Kill envy, bitterness, jealousy and hatred at the root.
Deal with unbelievers in a gracious manner – view them in their pitiable condition in need of the Savior.
Deal with fellow Christians as brother/sisters in Christ, giving them preference and patiently overlooking their weaknesses.
Consider what purposeful acts of goodwill to engage in to leave a Christian impression on the culture.
Cultivate a gracious demeanor toward those whom we contact throughout the day.
Determine to be useful to God’s kingdom by serving others wholeheartedly.
Endure hardship and suffering at the hands of others. Refuse to stop loving and refuse to stop praying for those who misuse or abuse us.
1 John 4:7-11 – Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
1 Corinthians 13:1-8a – If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge ; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
Everything a Christian does should be done in love. Right theology is no substitute for love. Religious works are no substitute for love. Nothing substitutes for love. Christians have no excuse for not loving.
~ John MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary – 1 Corinthians

Courage
Strengthened with bravery; resolutely fearless; secure; intrepid boldness; persistent in determination; undaunted spirit; free and fearless confidence; cheerful assurance; unambiguous, frankness and unreserved in speech
Give us strength to overcome the fear of the unknown and to be anxious for nothing. Help us to eliminate unfounded fears.
View doubt and fear as assaults from the enemy. Ability to resist all doubts and fears through the power of God’s Word.
Fully rely on the promises of God that He will be our Protector, Defender and Deliverer.
Help us respond with wisdom and authority in the face of danger.
Give us the ability to stand firm when various temptations arise and when persecutions threaten.
Teach us to say ‘no’ to evil and ‘yes’ to righteousness, regardless of what is popular.
Have the boldness and resolve to speak the name of Christ in any circumstance. To never deny Him, no matter what the cost.
Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.
Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous ! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Psalm 31:24 – Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the LORD.
Psalm 34:4 – I sought the LORD, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 46:1-2a – God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.
Psalm 56:3-4 – When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me?
Daniel 11:32b – The people who know their God will display strength and take action.
Ephesians 6:1- Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.
If you intend to bear up courageously against the opposition on your march to heaven, your principles must be fixed. Otherwise, your heart will be unstable. Two things are required to fix your principles: 1). An established knowledge of God’s truth. You must cling to God’s truths. They are your shelter in every raging storm.
2). A heart set in the right direction. Half-hearted resolve will not venture much nor far for Christ.
~ William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour – Volume 1, pages 28-29

Contentment
Sufficiently satisfied; knowing that we have enough and that God is in control regardless of my situation or condition in life
Appreciation for the Lord’s provision and how it is that He has chosen to provide for us.
Learn the daily discipline of denying ourselves.
A diminished appetite for empty worldly goods, knowing that there can be happiness in living with less.
Quickness to repent of complaining, grumbling and murmuring.
Help us to guard against jealousy and envy.
Cultivate an attitude of abhorrence to the notion that we are entitled. Give us an utter hatred for the prideful way that has conditioned us to feel we deserve more.
Show us how to count our blessings and show us how to express real gratitude.
Realize that contentment gives victory over trials and hardships.
Teach us to gladly submit to God’s wise dealings with us, to suffer well, and to praise Him in any afflictions or troubles.
Lamentations 3:39-40 – Why should any living mortal, or any man, offer complaint in view of his sins? Let us examine and probe our ways, and let us return to the LORD.
Philippians 4:11 – Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
1 Timothy 6:6-8 – But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.
Hebrews 13:5 – Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU”
A Christian comes to contentment, “not by adding more to his condition; but rather by subtracting from his desires, so as to make his desires and his circumstances even and equal”.
~ Jeremiah Burroughs, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, page 45

Diligence
Striving earnestly; bent on accomplishment; extreme effort and hard work to achieve a desired end or goal; trying your very best; persevering until the end
An unquenchable desire to study the scriptures and to seek the truth in every matter, exerting all the proper required effort to do it right.
Form a life-long habit of gaining wisdom and understanding and apply to daily life in a God-honoring way.
Embrace hard work and do hard things.
Ability to resist the temptation to take unnecessary shortcuts.
Repent of laziness. Reject idleness and half-hearted effort.
Seek to be productive in every endeavor.
Strength to finish well in every task.
To persevere despite any discouraging circumstances or obstacles that lie in our paths. Press on no matter what!
Do not grow weary in the labor of prayer. Work long and hard in the discipline of prayer, especially for the salvation of others.
2 Timothy 2:15 – Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.
Proverbs 12:11 – He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, But he who pursues worthless things lacks sense.
Proverbs 12:25 – The hand of the diligent will rule, But the slack hand will be put to forced labor.
Proverbs 27:18 – He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit, And he who cares for his master will be honored.
2 Peter 1:2-10 – Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble.
If we would succeed in our pursuit of holiness we must persevere in spite of failure.
~ Jerry Bridges, Pursuit of Holiness, page 105

Patience
Calmly bearing troubles and ills without complaint; slow to avenge wrongs; opposed to wrath and revenge; self-restraint to hastily retaliate a wrong
Teach us to welcome all situations or circumstances that God would send into our lives that produce patience.
Learn the virtue of waiting, understanding that immediate gratification is not necessary.
React with composure during difficult or frustrating circumstances.
Respond with graciousness toward those who are not on our same time schedules or who do not share our same sense of urgency in a matter.
Help us to develop better planning skills so that there is no need to be unnecessarily hurried.
Realize that anger is unnecessary and unproductive when dealing with matters that require patience.
Demonstrate God’s patience with us by demonstrating patience with others. A good testimony of patience may be a means by which someone around us comes to salvation. because we know that God is patient and it is His kindness that leads people to repentance (2 Peter 3:9; Romans 2:4).
1 Corinthians 13:4 – Love is patient, love is kind.
Colossians 3:12 – So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Ephesians 4:1-2 – Walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 – We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.
James 5:7-9a – Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged.
The patience of God in giving a chance to repent before judgment finally falls is one of the great marvels of the Bible story. It is no wonder that the New Testament stresses that longsuffering is a Christian virtue and duty; it is in truth a part of the image of God. ~ J.I. Packer, Knowing God, page 165

Patience is the grace necessary to keep us from suffering a stroke of sleepy stupidity which would deprive us of our senses, or from flying into a rage of discontent that would deprive us of our reason.
~ William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour – Volume 1, page 302

Peace
Completeness and soundness of spirit; rest; security; settled; inner tranquility amid the storms of life; quiet confidence of soul; deep friendship with God in a covenant relationship; convinced that nothing can separate me from the love of God; assurance of salvation and an eternal home in heaven
Rest in the fact that God loves us and has a plan for our lives.
Lay all our doubts and fears at the feet of Jesus, repenting of our anxious thoughts for the future.
Keep an undistracted focus on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Be on our knees in continual prayer for the troubling circumstances of the day with confidence in God’s trustworthiness to deal with them according to His perfect will and timing.
Examine ourselves daily to see if there is any fracture in our respective relationships with God. Quickly repent of any known sins so as to restore the peace in our friendship that Jesus already purchased on the cross.
Continually set our minds on things of the Spirit, thinking always on good, wholesome and noble things.
Isaiah 26:3-4 – The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for in GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock.
Romans 1:7 – Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 8:6 – For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.
Philippians 4:6-7 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:15 – Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
The real challenge of the Christian life is not to eliminate every unpleasant circumstance; it is to trust in the good purpose of our infinite, holy, sovereign, powerful God in every difficulty. Those who honor Him by trusting Him will experience the blessings of His perfect peace.
~ John MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary – Philippians, page 284.

Purity
Blamelessness and innocence; without defilement; clean; unstained by sin and guilt; free from the pollution of falsehood and corruption
Realize the truth that our purity comes from Christ, and as Christians we would possess the assurance that we are clothed in His righteousness alone.
A clear understanding of the blackness of our hearts and the desperate need of daily spiritual cleansing through serious meditation on the precious Word of God.
Confession of specific impure thoughts, words and actions.
Strength to avoid empty and vain things. Vigilance in what forms of entertainment we engage in. Turn away from that which would destroy our purity and compromise our integrity.
Be fully committed to single-minded devotion to Christ and to pleasing Him alone, putting away hypocrisy and insincerity. Live to the glory of God in every respect.
Be aware of subtle forms of evil that the enemy will use in compromising our purity.
Psalms 24:3-4 – Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood and has not sworn deceitfully.
Psalm 51:10 – Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalms 119:9 – How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word.
Proverbs 20:11 – It is by his deeds that a lad distinguishes himself if his conduct is pure and right.
Matthew 5:8 – Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
The only way to have a pure heart is to realize you have an impure heart, and to mourn about it to such an extent that you do that which alone can lead to cleansing and purity.
~ Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, page 108.

Self Control
A mastery of urges and passions; exercising restraint over impulses, emotions or desires; the power to keep ones self in check; ability to conquer the fleshly appetites and govern your passions; moderation and discipline
Pray that we are not driven or dominated by the power of the flesh.
Give us strength to be able to resist thought patterns that leads to harmful behavior.
Teach us how to deny ourselves when appropriate; learning how and when to say ‘no’, and knowing when enough is enough.
Help us to set a watch over our mouths, carefully guarding the words we use, knowing they can be used for good or for evil.
A renewed commitment to proper diet and exercise, caring for our bodies by not over indulging.
Show us that outbursts of anger are unnecessary, unfruitful and un-Christlike in dealing with problems.
Repent of the lack of self control and self discipline that easily becomes a life pattern when we are not vigilant against the schemes of the enemy.
Proverbs 25:28 – Like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control over his spirit.
1 Corinthians 9:25-27a – Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave.
Galatians 5:22-23a – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Titus 2:11-12 – For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age.
Self-control is the mastery of the Adamic nature by crucifixion with Christ; it is the result of crowning Jesus Christ Lord of all. Self-control knows that God has given us richly all things to enjoy, and it makes proper use of these things. ~ Donald Barnhouse, God’s Freedom: Romans 6:1-7:25

Joy
Gladness of heart; inner delight, regardless of circumstances; singing out in exaltation; happily vocalizing one’s thankfulness to the Lord
Help in putting away all negative attitudes.
Looking for the best in people rather than noticing weaknesses and flaws.
Be aware of those things that have a tendency to steal my joy. Don’t let it happen, since those things are not the source of joy!
Associate joy with evangelism. Sharing the truth of the gospel is a great source of rejoicing (even if people aren’t responding!)
Repent of the sins of depression and despondency, knowing that these are rooted in selfishness.
Realize that trials and difficulties are often necessary in cultivating Christian character. Be glad and rejoice that God is working through those painful times.
A greater understanding of our position in Christ and our prospects for the future (our status as adopted children of God and our eternal home in heaven)!
Psalm 16:11 – You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
Psalm 90:14 – O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Psalm 126:6 – He who goes to and fro weeping, carrying his bag of seed, shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.
Isaiah 61:10a – I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, my soul will exult in my God; for He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness.
Luke 2:10-11 – But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”.
Romans 15:13 – Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
James 1:2-3 – Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
Joy is not a feeling, it is an activity. Joy is how believers who know Christ and whose futures are guaranteed by Christ respond in the context of present difficulties, not because they like to suffer, but because their joy is ‘in the Lord’. ~ Gordon D. Fee, Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, page 52.

Kindness
A zealous love toward someone; acts of moral goodness toward another; a beautiful expression of grace; to be useful and helpful to others.
Display kindness and forbearance toward others as a means to reflect God’s kindness toward mankind, knowing that it is the kindness of God that leads people to repentance.
Teach me to communicate with graciousness and love toward those around me, speaking the truth in love.
Avoid a harsh countenance and sharp responses.
Help in knowing how to respond to ill treatment, not returning evil for evil (treating people with kindness and respect even if they don’t respond with the same kindness and respect).
Reject bitterness and mean spiritedness; repent of all nastiness. Ask for renewal. Ask for graciousness of heart.
Accept all of God’s dealings with me as evidence of His kindness because He makes all things work according to the counsel of His will and good pleasure (recognize He has my best interests in mind).
Proverbs 3:3 – Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
Proverbs 19:22a – What is desirable in a man is his kindness.
Proverbs 31:26 – She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Micah 6:8 – He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Colossians 3:12 – So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Be kind to one another! Have and cultivate this benevolence of spirit and of attitude; instead of always finding fault with, be always on the lookout for something you can praise. Help others. Life can be hard, difficult and very trying… help [people] to carry their burdens and to solve their problems and bear their difficulties. ~ Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Darkness and Light – Ephesians 4:17-5:17, page 285

Truthfulness
Committed to truth; genuine in character; frankness in speech; honesty; corresponding to reality; being transparent before God and men
Pray for a mastery of the truth; and to be mastered by the truth.
Commit to being honest, regardless of the cost or consequence.
Understand that truthfulness is a virtue that proves we are ‘new creatures’ and belong to the living God.
Put away the sham and pretense from my character.
Clarity of speech, making the truth as clear as possible. No lying, no half-truths, no deception, no fabrications, no exaggerations, no manipulation. Do not conceal the truth!
Be quick to repent of anything short of the absolute truth. Always regarding lying as a terrible testimony which takes away from the glory of God.
Recognize heresy and error. Be aware of the subtle tactics of the enemy to tempt me to compromise my desire for honesty and transparency.
Psalm 15:1-2 – O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.
Psalm 51:6 – Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being.
Proverbs 3:3 – Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
John 8:31b-32 – If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.
Ephesians 4:25 – Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.
Ephesians 5:8b-10 – Walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.
To know God and to have fellowship with God means, of necessity, truth and truthfulness. Men can deceive their fellows, but God is all-seeing. He demands, insists upon, this honesty, this truth in the inward parts. ~ Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Darkness and Light – Ephesians 4:17-5:17, page 215

Growing in Grace
Becoming more like Christ; growing in our understanding of who Christ is and what He has done to purchase salvation; appreciating our relationship with our Creator and Redeemer; cultivating our friendship with the Lord; sanctification (growing in holiness)
Pray for an apprehension of such comforting Biblical doctrines as believers assurance, the sufficiency of Christ, and Biblical inerrancy.
Pray that our praise and worship would be more robust and pleasing in God’s sight.
Learn the art of Bible study and understand that the Scriptures are our necessary spiritual nourishment.
Pray that God would send solid Christian friends into the lives of our family members as good influences, and that we also would be trusted and faithful friends and equally good influences to those around us.
Become strong in spiritual stature and increase in wisdom by the reading and meditation of the Word of God.
An awareness of and protection from false teaching and doctrinal error.
Become a good listener and open to constructive criticism, cultivating a humble heart that is willing to learn.
To cherish and practice such virtues as forgiveness, thanksgiving and gentleness.
1 Peter 2:1-3 – Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.
Ephesians 4:15-16 – Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.
Ephesians 5:8b-10 – Walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.
2 Peter 3:17b-18 – Be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
When I speak of a man growing in grace, I mean simply this – that his sense of sin is becoming deeper, his faith stronger, his hope brighter, his love more extensive, his spiritual-mindedness more marked. He feels more of the power of godliness in his own heart. He manifests more of it in his life.
~ J.C. Ryle, Holiness, page 53

Submission
A commitment and willingness to obey; yielded to the advice and/or commands of those in authority; a voluntary attitude to cooperate; arranging one’s self under another’s control; a military term meaning to arrange under a leader
Pray for enough humility to head the advice of others, especially of those in authority over us ( our parents, pastors, teachers, bosses, etc).
Willingness to admit when we are wrong and ready to change course when necessary.
Consider the opinions of our family members as valuable in our lives and helpful in our decision making process.
Submit to the instructions given to us by our superiors without delay or complaint, except when they violate commands of Scripture.
Repent of the headstrong attitude of wanting to always do it our way. This is selfish. This is sinful.
1 Peter 2:13-14 – Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
James 4:7 – Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Hebrews 13:17 – Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.
Ephesians 5:21-27 – Be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless.
Titus 3:1-2 – Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.
There is a mutual submission that Christians owe to one another, condescending to bear one another’s burdens: not advancing themselves above others, nor domineering over one another and giving laws to one another. We must be of a yielding and of a submissive spirit, and ready to all the duties of the respective places and stations that God has allotted to us in the world.
~ Matthew Henry, Matthew Henry’s Commentary – Acts to Revelation, page 575

Servanthood
Active participation in ministry to others in order to meet their physical and emotional needs, and to encourage and enable their spiritual growth; a spiritual act of worship, offering gifts of help to others; labor and hard work for the sake of others
Direct my heart closer to God in order to be in tune with His commands to labor in service.
Setting aside personal agendas to put others above our own desires.
Be attentive to the ministry needs around us and to be ready and willing to step in where we are needed.
Serve with gladness and without grumbling and complaining.
Willingness to do hard things sacrificially for others.
Recognizing our gifts and to use them for God and His people and for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Being a good steward (manager) of that which has been graciously given.
Repent and ask forgiveness for the missed opportunities to help others and for harboring a poor attitude about serving.
Psalm 100:2a – Serve the LORD with gladness
Romans 12:6-7 – Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 – Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
1 Peter 4:10, 11b – As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies ; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever.
Service is the overflow of super abounding devotion and the echo of my identification with the nature of God. Service is the natural part of my life. God gets me into a relationship with Himself whereby I understand His call, then I do things out of sheer love for Him on my own account. To serve God is the deliberate love-gift of a nature that has heard the call of God.
~ Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, January 17

Teachable
Willing to learn; yielded to another’s instruction; cooperative and open to advice and guidance; receptive to truth
Seek wisdom for the study of God’s Word, being thorough and accurate in order to hear the voice of God and what He would be teaching us from the Bible.
Give us open minds to be receptive to other believer’s ideas and to discern that these ideas are rooted in truth.
A willingness to receive the sound counsel of others, appreciative of their concern and interest in our development.
Protection from error and an awareness that what we think we know already may be wrong or skewed.
Repent of over-confidence, even arrogance, that has convinced us that our opinions and positions are always right.
Send us teachers and mentors that will guide us in truth throughout the various stages of our lives.
Deuteronomy 5:1 – Hear, O Israel, the statutes and the ordinances which I am speaking today in your hearing, that you may learn them and observe them carefully.
Proverbs 4:13 – Take hold of instruction; do not let go. Guard her, for she is your life.
Proverbs 8:33 – Heed instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it.
Psalm 119:71 – It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.
Matthew 11:29 – Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
Hebrews 12:11 – All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
Everything the Word accomplishes in you through teaching, reproof, and correction is aimed at increasing your righteousness, so you’ll “be thoroughly equipped for every good work”. From spiritual infancy to maturity, Scripture trains and educates believers in godly living.
~ John MacArthur, Drawing Near, October 31

Prudence
Shrewdness and craftiness in discriminating between truth and error; wisdom to see what is virtuous or what is suitable and what is profitable; good judgment; forethought/foresight in planning (looking ahead as a provision against danger and/or risk)
A proper understanding of God’s Word and His will in my life, in order to make rational and God-honoring decisions.
An awareness and watchfulness, vigilant against the deceptive schemes of the evil one.
To be endowed with wisdom in order to recognize and avoid error.
Repent of foolishness.
Think through the potential consequences of a particular action to avoid an injured relationship between myself and others.
Beware of situations and conversations that would dishonor God in any way.
A careful evaluation of what I am reading or hearing, comparing it against what is written in God’s Word, asking the questions, ‘Is it true?’ and ‘What does God have to say regarding this?’
Ask God to teach me and lead me in the truth by his Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 8:5 – O naive ones, understand prudence; And, O fools, understand wisdom.
Proverbs 13:16 – Every prudent man acts with knowledge, But a fool displays folly.
Matthew 24:4 – And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you”.
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 – But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.
Ephesians 5:6a – Let no one deceive you with empty words.
1 Corinthians 15:33-34 – Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God.
Among the gifts of the Spirit scarcely one is of greater practical usefulness than the gift of discernment. This gift should be highly valued and frankly sought as being almost indispensable in these critical times. This gift will enable us to distinguish the chaff from the wheat and to divide the manifestations of the flesh from the operations of the Spirit. ~ A.W. Tozer

Compassion
Showing mercy; sympathetic and caring; to suffer or feel pain together; suffering or feeling the like with another; entering into another’s suffering with the intent to relieve their pain; manifestations of pity
Break our hearts to be able to feel the pain, hurt and suffering of others.
Repent of the hardness and blindness that hinders us from reaching out and helping others who are in distress.
Help us to show the compassion of Christ by caring enough for others to do what it takes to let them know they are loved.
Develop the ability to find the right words to genuinely encourage and comfort the hurting and downtrodden.
Willingness and strength to sacrificially give our time and resources to benefit those in need. Willingly bear their burdens without complaint.
Remember to pray for specific individuals who are struggling – that God would pour out His mercy and love in their lives and that His will would be fully accomplished in their lives through their difficult circumstances.
1 Corinthians 12:24b-26 – God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked, so that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
Romans 15:1 – Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves.
Galatians 6:2 – Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.
Colossians 3:12 – So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
1 Peter 3:8-9a – To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead.
To love is not to wish well one to another, but to bear one another’s burdens, that is, to bear those things which are grievous unto you, and which you would not willingly bear. Therefore, Christians must have strong shoulders and mighty bones, that they may bear flesh, that is, the weakness of their brother. ~ Martin Luther, Commentary on Galatians, page 393

Steadfast
Resolved, standing firm, immovable and fixed; settled in purpose; braced for conflict; pulled together
Ability to withstand the personal storms in life and to bear up under the pressure of trials and persecution. Persevere in unpleasant circumstances.
Suffer well, without complaint.
Stand boldly; speak the truth in love, even in the face of adversity, never giving ground in matters of truth.
Strength to be fully committed to Christ. Never deny or forsake Him, no matter what the pressure may be, even unto death!
To keep Christ-like composure in the midst of opposition. Strength in character.
Never crumble under the weight of peer pressure. Never waver on my convictions!
Ask God to help me clothe myself with ‘the full armor of God’ in order to stand against the wicked schemes of the enemy.
Power to resist temptations by looking for ways of escape from them (1 Cor. 10:13).
Be convinced of God’s goodness and provision as a reminder of His future faithfulness.
Joshua 24:15 – Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve
Psalm 57:7 – My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises!
Proverbs 11:19 – He who is steadfast in righteousness will attain to life, and he who pursues evil will bring about his own death.
Daniel 11:32b – The people who know their God will display strength and take action.
1 Corinthians 15:58 – Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 – Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
Ephesians 6:10-11,13-15 – Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE.
To stand is the opposite of ‘to flee’ or ‘to surrender’. When is it ever permissible for a Christian to shirk his duty because it is accompanied by danger? If we are to be successful soldiers, the preservation of God’s honor must always take precedence over our fears.
~ William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour – Volume 1, page 285-286

Vigilance
Used of a tower, to look out bending forward, like watchmen; giving the utmost attention to; alert, watchful and awake; to be actively cautious; to look about observantly
Focus. Remain undistracted and undaunted in the task of doing God’s work in the power of Christ Jesus.
Guard against naivety, keeping informed of cultural trends and a readiness to combat the constant barrage of attacks of evil.
Learn the subtle tactics of the enemy in order to effectively identify temptation and be ready and able to resist them.
Pray that the culture would not lull us to sleep – be alert to lies and deception.
Guard our thought patterns from compromise. Hold firmly to the truth and don’t let go!
Pray for wisdom to know the what is dangerous to our spiritual well-being and the strength and courage to avoid those things.
Psalm 5:3 – In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; in the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.
Matthew 24:42 – Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.
Mark 14:38 – Keep watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.
1 Corinthians 16:13 – Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
Colossians 4:2 – Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving
1 Peter 5:8 – Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
We must watch like soldiers – we are upon enemy’s ground. We must always be on our guard. We must fight a daily fight and war a daily warfare. We must pray as well as watch, and watch as well as pray. Watching without praying is self-confidence and self-conceit. Praying without watching is enthusiasm and fanaticism. The man who knows his own weakness, and knowing it both watches and prays, is the man that will be held up and not allowed to fall.
~ J.C. Ryle, Expositional Thoughts on the Gospel – Mark, page 320-321

Gentleness
Tenderhearted; meek and mild disposition (power under control); attractiveness of inner spirit; quiet and tranquil adornment of the soul; the opposite of obnoxious self-assertiveness
May my words be soft and healing words rather than harsh, cutting and sarcastic.
A mild and gentle countenance and a quiet demeanor.
Self-discipline in my reactions to various situations, being careful not to over react in shock, surprise or anger. God, help me to be ready to rightly respond to the unexpected!
Repent of harsh, mean-spirited attitudes and actions that would offend others.
Ask for a calmness when sharing scripture with others, careful to avoid arguments that lead to division.
Boldness to share the truth without shrinking back. Pray for power to stand up for Christ, His Word and His people while maintaining a spirit of meekness.
Proverbs 15:1 – A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Matthew 5:5 – Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
Ephesians 4:1a-2 – Walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.
Philippians 4:5 – Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.
Titus 3:1-2 – Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.
1 Peter 3:4 – Let [your adornment] be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.
1 Peter 3:15 – Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.
Some [Christians] are sharper than a thorn-hedge; such men are not like Jesus. Let us seek to win others by the gentleness of our words and acts.
~ Charles H. Spurgeon, Morning and Evening, May 24.

Faithfulness
Thoroughly trustworthy and dependable; steady in fulfilling promises; secure and stable; responsible and reliable
Pray for a genuine reputation that others can count on us. Dependability!
To persevere in kind gestures and goodness toward others without growing weary or discouraged.
That we would be good stewards of our gifts, however small they may be, in order to be a blessing to others.
A steadiness in church attendance, bible study, prayer meetings and ministry opportunities – using our time wisely for the Lord.
A consistent and undistracted study of the Word in order to be ready to answer questions regarding faith and conduct to those who would ask. Faithfulness to God and His precious Word!
Repent of failure to be responsible in certain areas of our lives and a renewed commitment to be reliable, especially in our families and church community.
Proverbs 28:20 – A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished.
Psalm 101:6 – My eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in a blameless way is the one who will minister to me.
Matthew 25:21 – His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’
Luke 16:10 – He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.
2 Timothy 2:1-2 – You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
2 Timothy 2:13 – If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.
Those who are not faithful to God will not be likely to be faithful to men; if we are faithful ourselves, we shall not care to have those about us who cannot speak the truth or fulfill their promises; we shall not be satisfied until all the members of our family are upright in character.
~ Charles Spurgeon, The Treasury of David, Volume 2, Psalms 58-110, page 241.

Generosity
Inclined to be abundant in giving; bountiful and beneficial toward others; ready and willing to impart and share; recognizing and lavishly meeting needs of others
Help us to see the plight of those around us, especially the poor. And may we be willing to help them.
Pray that we would not cling so tightly to the worlds goods, ready to share and give when necessary.
May we be an encouragement to those who aren’t necessarily struggling, just by giving or sharing a meal, etc.
A willingness to share our home and our time by being hospitable.
Repent of selfishness, knowing that a self-centered attitude is a cancerous sin.
Recognize the Lord’s generous and benevolent acts of goodness in my own life, resulting in praise and thankfulness!
Proverbs 11:25 – The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.
Proverbs 22:9 – He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor.
Acts 20:35 – In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’
1 Timothy 6:17-18 – Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.
Ephesians 4:28 – He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Christianity stands for consideration for others, self-denial, self-abnegation, self-abasement, seeing the needs of others and giving. Giving! Others! Seeing need! Sacrificing! Because we are new men, let us put off the old man, and let us walk in the footsteps of our blessed Lord and Master, who said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’.
~ Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Darkness and Light, Ephesians 4:17-5:17, page 251-252

Prayerful
Single-minded devotion and regular communication with God; addressing God reverently, ascribing to Him the richest glory, honor and adoration; sincere confession of sin; making requests of and supplications to God, fully trusting in His answers
That we would engage in regular meaningful conversations with the Lord throughout each day, bringing to Him our praises, our hurts, our needs, our confessions of sin and our thanksgiving.
That we would take our responsibility to pray very seriously, careful to approach God in a most respectful and reverent manner, not rushing in and out of His presence, but ordering our prayers (Psalm 5:3).
Develop a genuine interest in the prayer concerns of others, remembering to join with them to pray for fervently their requests.
Cultivate good habits of praying for our church, community, schools and country.
An awareness of the lost and dying people around us in need of God’s forgiveness and salvation and a willingness to pray that God would reveal Himself to them and give them the wisdom that leads to salvation.
Watch and wait expectantly, eager to see how the Lord will amaze us with His responses to our prayers.
Acts 2:42 – They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Philippians 4:6 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Colossians 4:2 – Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 – First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
1 Peter 4:7 – The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.
James 5:13-16 – Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises. Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up, and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him. Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
Prayer is far-reaching in its influence and its gracious effects. It is intense and profound business which deals with God and His plans and purposes, and it takes whole-hearted men to do it. No half-hearted, half-brained, half-spirited effort will do for this serious, all-important heavenly business. The whole heart, the whole brain, the whole spirit, must be in the matter of praying, which is so mightily to affect the characters and destinies of men.
~ E.M. Bounds, The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer, page 82-83

Obedience
Willing conformity to God’s requirements; to position one’s self under God’s authority; perception by hearing resulting in full compliance and complete submission; yielded to the authority of another; giving heed to advice by agreeing to act accordingly
A willingness to take seriously the commands of God and to put into action all of those things which we know are pleasing to Him.
Develop an acute awareness of God’s requirements, listening to His voice as we study His precious Word in order to know what He really wants from us.
Cultivate a absolute delight in submission to what God demands in our lives, whether it hurts or not.
An understanding that our Master expects full obedience regardless of the cost, not out of mere duty or obligation, but because we truly love Him. A half-hearted attempt at obedience, or reluctance and delay, is really no obedience at all!
An appreciation for those in leadership over us, complying with their rules as long as they don’t conflict with Biblical principles.
Deuteronomy 27:10 – You shall therefore obey the LORD your God, and do His commandments and His statutes which I command you today.
Acts 5:29 – Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.”
Ephesians 6:1 – Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Romans 6:16 – Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?
Hebrews 13:17 – Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.
1 Peter 1:14-16 – As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”
A man may repent of his fruitless knowledge, but never did any man repent of his obedience when he came to die! Never did any Christian who is going to rest with God repent that he had walked with God. ~ Thomas Watson, A Plea for the Godly, page 177

Hopeful
Earnest expectation of a future reality; confident trust in the fulfillment of that which was promised; waiting patiently and joyfully for that which is absolutely guaranteed to come; positive assurance in God’s faithfulness
Recognize how God has already worked in our lives as proof that He will never leave us nor forsake us. His faithfulness is the guarantee of our glorious future!
Cultivate an attitude of anticipation in regards to our reward in heaven. Praise God for His gift of eternal life!
Develop a habit of watching and waiting eagerly to see how God fulfills all His promises.
Reject thoughts of anxiety when evil seems to prevail.
Repent of doubt and despair, seeing these as tools of the enemy to discredit the promises of God.
Psalm 38:15 – For I hope in You, O LORD; You will answer, O Lord my God.
Psalm 42:5 – Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.
Psalm 71:5 – For You are my hope; O Lord GOD, You are my confidence from my youth.
Jeremiah 29:11 – ‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.
Lamentations 3:21-23 – This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.
1 Peter 1:13 – Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
God who gives us grace to hope in Him, will assuredly fulfill our hope, and, therefore, we may plead it in prayer. His name is ‘Jehovah, the hope of Israel’; and, as He cannot be a false or failing hope, we may expect to see our confidence justified.
~ Charles H. Spurgeon, The Treasury of David, Volume 2, Psalms 58-110, page 208.