Creator God,
As the calendar turns to 2024, we, your children at LaSalle Street Church and around the world, come before You with hearts full of thanksgiving and eyes set towards the future. We give thanks for Your unwavering presence in the past year, for the joys we've experienced, and for comfort in our trials.
In this new year, we ask for Your continued guidance over our lives and this congregation. May Your Word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). In moments of uncertainty, remind us that Your plans are to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
We pray for unity within our congregation. Let us be completely humble and gentle; may we be patient, bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2). May our church be a beacon of Your love, where every member feels valued, understood, and connected.
God, we ask for Your wisdom as we make decisions, both as individuals and as a church body. In all our plans, let us acknowledge You, and direct our paths (Proverbs 3:6). Guide our leaders with discernment and courage, that they may shepherd Your flock according to Your will.
We lift up our community and our world to You. May we be Your hands and feet, serving those in need with compassion and generosity. Inspire us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with You (Micah 6:8).
God, we also pray for personal growth in faith. Help us to delve deeper into Your Word, to spend quiet moments in prayer, and to recognize Your voice amidst the noise of the world. May we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18).
In 2024, let us be a church that rejoices with those who rejoice and weeps with those who weep (Romans 12:15). Strengthen our fellowship, that in times of joy and sorrow, we may support one another in genuine love and empathy.
We ask for Your blessing over every family and individual in our congregation. Protect them, provide for their needs, and fill their homes with Your peace and joy.
Finally, Lord, as we embrace the new year, let us do so with hope and courage. Remind us that Your mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23), and that with You, each day is an opportunity to live out Your purpose for our lives.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.
As we step into 2024, may this prayer be a reminder of God's steadfast love and faithfulness. Let us carry these words in our hearts and live them out in our actions. May this year be one of growth, service, and deepened faith for the entire LaSalle Street Church family. God bless you all in the year ahead.