Why Jesus Chose Power Under Instead of Power Over - A Nighttime Prayer

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. – Mark 10:45 (NLT)

Please Pray:

Dear Triune God,

As this day comes to an end, I confess how often I trust the world's kind of power. I want control. I want certainty. I want to manage outcomes and protect myself from disappointment and pain.

Yet when I study Your way, I see a different way. What looked like weakness became the greatest victory the world has ever known. I can’t unsee the beauty of power under choices as I struggle with wanting to control more and more of my life.

Teach me to trust Your kind of power.

When I am tempted to control people, help me love them without coercion.

When I am tempted to win arguments, help me to walk away giving the other person dignity.

When I am tempted to prove myself right, help me value the relationship more than being correct.

When I am tempted to retaliate against those who hurt me, help me respond in a way that reflects your grace and leaves room for redemption.

When I am tempted to use my influence for my benefit, help me use it for the good of others.

When I’m tempted to “other” the person who makes me uncomfortable, help me to serve that very person.

As I sleep tonight after an anxious day, remind me that the future of Your kingdom does not rest on my strength but on Yours. The same power that raised You from the dead is at work in the world, bringing healing, redemption, restoration, reconciliation, and hope.

May I wake tomorrow ready to follow Your example.

Thank You for showing me—and reminding me--what true power looks like.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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