Hello, prayers of rest listeners.

I'm Ashrida Chuchu, and we're taking some time off our regular programming to plan and record our next season of the podcast.

So this week, we're here with an excerpt from my upcoming devotional prayers of rest, daily prompts to slow down and hear God's voice. I hope this prayer helps

guide you in God's loving presence today.

Matthew. Take a deep breath and quiet your heart as we become aware of God's loving

presence around us and within us.

Today's passage comes from Matthew 4, verse 17.

From then on, Jesus began to preach, repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near.

Recite God's goodness. Precious Jesus, you didn't come preaching fire and brimstone, but repentance, hope, and

restoration.

I praise you for bringing your kingdom here on earth and inviting us to be a part of it. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you. Express your neediness.

Take a few moments now to recite God's goodness, praising Him for who He is and for what He has done in your life.

Express your neediness.

Oh, Father, make me quick to hear Jesus' words and obey Him.

Help me continue to turn from any hints of sin or compromise in my life.

I want your kingdom of light to shine brightly in my life.

So give me courage as your ambassador to call out to my own friends and family and neighbors and invite them to be reconciled to you.

Pause now and express your neediness to God, confessing your sins to Him and bringing before him those loved ones that have yet to enter his kingdom.

Seek his stillness.

Take a few moments to picture God's kingdom of light, penetrating the darkness all over the world,

and in your home, in your neighborhood, in your workplace. Be still before God and let His light fill you and flow through you.

Trust His faithfulness.

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