Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth, I call to You; I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. I long to dwell in Your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. For You have heard my vows, O God; You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name. Increase the days of the king’s life, his years for many generations. May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever; appoint Your love and faithfulness to protect him. Then will I ever sing praise to Your name and fulfill my vows day after day. [Psalms 61:1-8]
“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” [Exodus 20:16] As a follower of You, not only is my reputation on the line, but also Yours. Help me to be wise, discerning, and strong enough to never lie or misrepresent anyone. Help me to say and do the truth no matter the price. If I can’t say, help me to keep my mouth closed. Let me only stand in the integrity and righteousness of my own and never belittle people or ruin them with false or unfounded claims. Help me to stand for justice, not the world’s concept of justice but of Your justice.
Since I am receiving a kingdom that cannot be moved, let me be gracious, by which I may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For God, You are my consuming fire. I will perpetuate brotherly love to continue. I will not forget to entertain strangers, knowing that at times that has meant entertaining Angels unknowingly. I will remember those who have been imprisoned around the world for their faith and join with them in prayer and solidarity. I will stand with and remember those who have been abused, berated, or beaten because of being a child of God and will identify with them no matter the cost. I will honor my marriage and keep my bed undefiled. I will let God judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. I will use money but never love it or desire it so that it never interferes with my devotion to God. I will learn to be content with what I have, for I know Your word says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So that I can always boldly proclaim, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear what can man do to me.” I will remember those who rule over me, who have proclaimed to me the word of God. I will follow their faith, considering the results it has produced in their lives. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. In Jesus’ name I anchor my salvation, amen. [Hebrews 12:28-13:8, MEV and my paraphrase]