Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (Luke 4:31-37):

 God Our Father,

As we begin this new month of September, we thank You for the gift of another month and another opportunity to walk more faithfully with You. We place into Your hands all that this new month will bring, our plans, hopes, responsibilities, families, work, studies, journeys, and every desire of our hearts.

Lord Jesus, You speaks with authority, and even the unclean spirit recognizes Your power.  Enter every area of our lives with Your authority. Drive away whatever keeps us from Your peace, fear, anxiety, discouragement, temptation, resentment, and every form of spiritual darkness.

As You brought freedom and healing to the man in the synagogue, bring healing and liberation to us and to those we love. Where there is confusion, bring clarity; where there is fear, bring courage; where there is division, bring reconciliation; where there is weakness, bring strength.

Lord, let Your Word speak with authority into our lives this September. May we not only hear Your Word but allow it to transform our thoughts, choices, relationships, and actions. Bless this new month. Open doors that are according to Your will and close those that would lead us away from You. Give us wisdom to recognize Your presence and courage to follow where You lead.Lord, protect our families and loved ones. Bless those who are sick, lonely, struggling, or carrying burdens known only to You. Provide for those in need and strengthen everyone who begins this month with uncertainty about the future. Amen