Thanksgiving Prayer: Thanking God for protection.

As Apostle Paul put it in Ephesians 6:12; "we wrestle not against flesh and blood but with principalities, against powers, against rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in the highest places." In my short journey as a Christian I have come to realize that the enemy is well versed in the art of keeping us pre-occupied such that we are either forever engaged in worldly affairs or we are always undergoing deliverance of one form or the other. Ignoring the enemy completely is naïve while exalting his power and dwelling on his attacks weakens our faith in the protection God already provides. So there is need for balance, knowing which battles cannot be avoided, addressing those in prayer and keeping a healthy prayer life which encompasses all aspects of the prayer ministry.

According to Apostle Paul's examples of prayer in 1 Timothy 2, he recommended praying for others (intercessions), glorifying God whilst giving thanks (thanksgiving) and praying for yourself (petitions). This outline demonstrates that at least two thirds of a believers' life should be self-less as our Lord Jesus Christ commanded us to love others more than we love ourselves. Today we will delve in the area of thanksgiving prayers were we show our gratitude to the Almighty for protecting us in all our ways. Let's come together to acknowledge and appreciate God's unfailing protection, finding comfort and reassurance in His love as we offer heartfelt prayers of thanksgiving.

Read 1 Timothy 2, Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4, Psalm 31:4, Romans 8:18, Joshua 1:9, Psalm 9:9-10 for scriptural understanding.

Prayer:

Thank you Father, for protecting paths of justice and for guarding me in all my ways. Even as I walk through the valley of shadow of death, I fear no evil because you are with me, your staff and your rod protect me. Many times over, you have brought me out of the net that the enemy had set for me because you are my protective fortress. I have seen the reality of your promise in Psalm 91 that says that "no evil will come near me and no disease shall come near my tent" with my own eyes. When I have your protection, nothing can harm me. I know beyond doubt that you, my loving Father works all things together for good to those that love you and for those that are called according to your purposes. So based on the integrity of your word I am assured that the present suffering is nothing compared to the glory that will be revealed in me.

When fiery arrows were aimed at me by the enemy, you commanded me to be "strong, courageous, to not be afraid or discouraged because you are with me wherever I go". I have carried these words with me, and they have brought me great comfort. Not only have you strengthened me by your words of encouragement but you have also met all my needs out of the riches of your glory that are found in Christ Jesus. Thank you, God Most High, for being my safe place in difficult times. Indeed, those that know your name, trust you because you have never abandoned those that truly seek you in spirit and in truth. May your holy name be exalted above all things in Jesus mighty name.

Amen.