Prayers for those who have lost social confidence� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

Prayers for those whohave lost social confidence

Follow the Leader

No words. Just music and moving. During a twenty-four-hour Zumba marathon amid the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of people from around the globe worked out together and virtually followed instructors from India, China, Mexico, America, South Africa, the UK, parts of Europe and several other places. These diverse individuals were able to move together without any language barriers. Why? Because instructors of the exercise craze Zumba, created in the mid-1990s by a Colombian aerobics instructor, utilise non-verbal cues to communicate. Class instructors move, and students follow their lead. They follow with no words uttered or shouted. Words can sometimes get in the way and create barriers. They may cause confusion such as the Corinthians experienced, as noted in Paul’s first letter to them. It was confusion brought about by differing views of disputable matters pertaining to the eating of particular foods (1 Corinthians 10:27–30). But our actions can transcend barriers and even confusion. As Paul says in today’s passage, we should show people how to follow Jesus through our actions—seeking “the good of many” (10:32–33). We invite the world to believe in Him as we “follow the example of Christ” (11:1). Perhaps after so many months of isolation and lockdowns, you feel less confident about getting back out in the wider community—and with less energy for handling social situations. Maybe the idea of talking freely about your faith is more daunting than ever. It’s okay to start small; as someone once said, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words when necessary.” As we follow Jesus’ lead, may He guide the way we live and the actions we take to cue others to the reality of our faith. And may our words and actions be done “all for the glory of God” (10:31).

Adapted from the Our Daily Bread article “Follow the Leader” by Katara Patton

A Prayer for Building Deeper Relationships Father, after the increased isolation of the last couple of years, I feel more anxious and closed off. I’m afraid to come out of the small world my isolation has created. I don’t know how to reforge meaningful connections with the people in my church, work and friendship groups. Remind me of my identity in Christ as Your precious child; may that give me the confidence to be vulnerable and open, allowing others into my life again. I am so thankful for Your love which casts out all fear—I long to show it to others. Help me take baby steps forwards. I surrender my relationships to You; deepen them and reveal Yourself in them for Your glory. Amen

A Prayer for the Continued Re-Opening of the World Heavenly Father, thank You that most restrictions have lifted across our nation. I pray for Your guidance and protection so that our communities will keep reconnecting safely and carefully. I pray for a special blessing upon those who are still nervous about engaging with wider society again. May they know Your peace. And I pray particularly for those parts of the world still struggling to manage the pandemic. Thank You, Lord, that You are sovereign over all; be our shield, shelter and strong provider in these days. Amen

A Prayer to Shine God’s Light Almighty God, with so much unrest going on at the moment, we ask You for a special measure of grace. Help us, as we navigate the issues, not to lose sight of You: Your kingdom, Your priorities and Your merciful character. Give us kind, compassionate hearts and stout, unshakable faith in Your Word. Strengthen us to stand for what we believe without seeing those who disagree as enemies. May we be ambassadors of Your love, Your hope and Your gospel. For Jesus’ sake make us lights of the world. Amen

5-minute Bible Study: Colossians 4:2-6

2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains� 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should� 5 Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity� 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone�

1�

Highlight all the action words and phrases (all the things we’re told to do). Which do you find hardest? Why?

2�

How many times are we told to pray? Why is prayer essential if we are going to “proclaim the mystery of Christ” (v. 3)?

3�

What do you think “watchful and thankful” prayers look like? Why is praying that way important?

4�

What is the ultimate desire we can have for all our conversations (vv. 3-4)? How can you put this into practice?

5�

How can you “season” your conversations with God’s grace (v. 6)? How might this change the way you speak?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank You that You are with me in every conversation I have. May I be an example of Your grace and kindness in how I speak. Keep me prayerful and looking for opportunities to share my faith. Amen. WHERE NEXT? If you have time, read John 15:1-5 and Galatians 5:22-23—think about what sort of fruit we can bear in our lives and conversations, and how we grow it. A BIBLE STUDY TAKE-AWAY! Why not see if highlighting all the action words and specific instructions can help you personally apply other passages in the New Testament letters?

LET YOUR CONVERSATION BE ALWAYS full of grace, seasoned with salt,

SO THAT YOU MAY KNOW how to answer everyone.

COLOSSIANS 4:6