Friday Prayer: Beyond Self-Improvement
Jesus, I've been approaching this year like a self-improvement project - trying to fix myself, become better, earn your approval through upgraded performance. I've made resolutions like I'm saving myself through discipline. But you didn't come to help me improve myself. You came to give me
Jesus, I've been approaching this year like a self-improvement project - trying to fix myself, become better, earn your approval through upgraded performance. I've made resolutions like I'm saving myself through discipline. But you didn't come to help me improve myself. You came to give me a whole new self.
Forgive my self-reliance disguised as spiritual growth. I don't need to become good enough for you to love me - you already love me. I don't need to fix myself before you'll use me - you specialize in using broken people. I don't need to earn my place with you through better performance - my place is secure in Christ's finished work.
Teach me the difference between self-improvement and Spirit-led transformation. Help me grow not by trying harder but by depending more. Let my weaknesses remind me I need you, not shame me into hiding. I want to boast in my weaknesses so your power can rest on me. Transform me not through my effort but through your grace.