21 Days of Prayer for the Lost: Day 4

This verse reminded me of the disciple Judas. Jesus chose Judas to be one of his disciples, knowing that Judas would be the one to betray Him. But He still chose him. He kept him close to Him the whole three years of His ministry.

Jesus does and will continue to offer His friendship to sinners. He isn't afraid of their sin.  In fact, He will keep them as close to Him as they allow, desiring a relationship with them, giving them every opportunity to choose to commit to Him.

Matthew 7:1-2 says, "Judge not, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." We all have sinned and have fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Jesus wants to be our friend no matter what our sin. And when we accept His friendship and commit our lives to Him, we also need to follow His example by offering our friendship and loving others just as He loves us (1 John 4:19).

Let the words of this beautiful hymn by Clara H. Scott guide your prayer time.
 
 “Open My Eyes That I May See”

Verse 1
Open my eyes that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free

Chorus 1
Silently now I wait for Thee
Ready my God Thy will to see
Open my eyes illumine me
Spirit divine

Verse 2
Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear
And while the wave notes fall on my ear
Everything false will disappear

Verse 3
Open my mouth and let me bear
Gladly the warm truth everywhere
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with Thy children thus to share
 
Things to pray for today:

• Praise God for his love and patience with us
• Repent of any judgmental attitude you may have toward others, thinking that your sin is of lesser consequence
• Ask God to open your eyes and show you how to be His hands and feet to those who need your friendship

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.