I received this prayer request from one of the men in our ministry and he said that I could share it here. I would bet that we can all agree with the sentiments of this prayer. May the true meaning of Christmas shine through this season, for all of us!

I know in the past, it has been very easy for me to conform to the world’s point of view and start setting up and worshiping idols. It is in these times that Screwtape gets a hold of me and says it’s okay to participate in certain behaviors and attitudes because it’s the holidays and it won’t offend the Lord. That leads to a very slow and steady decent into self deception and before I know it I am far far away from God.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2 NIV

“Do not set foot on the path of the wicked

or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it;

turn from it and go on your way. For they cannot rest until they do evil;

they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble. They eat the bread of wickedness

and drink the wine of violence. The path of the righteous is like the morning sun,

shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness;

they do not know what makes them stumble. My son, pay attention to what I say;

turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight,

keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them

and health to one’s whole body. Above all else, guard your heart,

for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity;

keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead;

fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet

and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left;

keep your foot from evil. ” -Proverbs 4:14-27 NIV