prayer Archives - Kristina Lunde

September 12, 2026 by Kristina Lunde Leave a Comment

Sunday School Strategy: Pray Psalm 145

Dear Lord God,
Thank you for this new school year and the opportunity to teach children. Thank you for how your Word applies to my everyday life —like preparing for Sunday school. Teach me to relate David’s words to my preparation prayer, using Psalm 145 as a framework.

I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Psalm 145:1 NIV

Lord, I praise you, and let me keep praising you during this new teaching season. Help me meditate on verses 4-7 of Psalm 145 as I pray to prepare for this class. Lord, please clean up my heart and attitude before this school year starts. I confess the frustration and fatigue that I feel in my life right now. Forgive me for the times that I disobey and neglect you. Keep me from being impatient, shallow, or incomplete in my teaching. Thank you that, before every lesson, this curriculum offers specific Bible teaching and challenges for me as teacher. Teach me how to maximize my use of these Christ-centered, Bible-based lessons.

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. Psalm 145:4

Commend & Tell

Lord, you inspired David to write of one generation relaying your works and mighty acts to another. But you know that I am two generations removed from these first and second graders. As a gap-bridging God, please help me communicate your message to these kids. When I teach, let me speak clearly with words, gestures, and examples these children can understand. Guide me to the clearest ways to share your love and your Word with them.

They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty— and I will meditate on your wonderful works. Psalm 145:5

Speak and Meditate

Teach me how to explain your majesty in a way that honors and praises you. Lord, get me out of the way. Cleanse me from my self-interests and self-centered distractions. Give me insight to recognize the children’s cues when they don’t understand the concept or relate to my examples. Stop me if I try to rely on my previous knowledge and shortchange my preparation. Teach me how to meditate on the Bible passage and memory verse as I prepare for each lesson.

They tell of the power of your awesome works—and I will proclaim your great deeds. Psalm 145:6

Proclaim

I praise you for your miracles—guide me as I teach the many lessons about your miracles for the Israelites. Give me explanations of how you provide for us today, with real-life examples the kids can understand. Jesus, help them connect your miracle of manna in the desert with your provision of loved ones to feed them. Let me praise your works with relevant descriptions and connections for these young children.

Lord thank you for the sweet illustrations, bright colors, and other attention-getting aspects of these lessons. Show me how to emphasize the lesson concepts, repeat the memory verses, and challenge these kids to learn. Most of all, let me proclaim the truth of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Jesus, the curriculum focuses on you—open each child’s heart and mind to understand your truth.

They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. Psalm 145:7

Celebrate & Sing

Dear Jesus, teach our class to celebrate who you are and what you have done for us. Thank you for children’s music that emphasizes Bible truths. Remind me of songs that will help the kids memorize Bible verses and lesson concepts.
Lord, guide my mouth to praise you as I teach Sunday school this year. Let our class sing and praise you as we study your Word together. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever. Psalm 145:21

June 29, 2026 by Kristina Lunde Leave a Comment

The Pile of Papers: Irritated or Grateful?

My editor recently challenged me to think of my pile of papers as something to be thankful for. That is not my usual approach. THE PILE represents time-consuming paperwork and procrastinated decisions that elicit my irritation, not gratitude.

THE PILE refers to my stacks of paperwork that accumulate. I open envelopes, cull junk mail, and recycle nonessential papers. I save and stack only important paperwork. But THE PILE still grows.

Eventually, I have to address the overflowing pile. Working through the pileof papers, I get irritated because it takes longer than expected. In my experience, gratitude and THE PILE have never mixed. My wise editor gave me this assignment, so I will try to face my paperwork with gratitude instead of irritation. After stacking my random expanding piles, I took the photo below as a start.

Lord God, thank you for THE PILE, this overwhelming pile of paperwork. Teach me to appreciate your blessings, like this comfortable place to sit and deal with my paperwork.

My book of prayer lists tops THE PILE. Dear Jesus, thank you for precious people I can pray for; help me to pray faithfully.

My Bible—what a gift that is, Lord. I can read it anytime, no one will take it away from me, and it is your true Word. Help me dig into your Word more often.

Recipe card for tonight’s dinner in my Mom’s handwriting. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for memories. My mother loved you so much and served her family without complaining. Teach me to be more hospitable and patient about serving others.

The Ministry of Ordinary Places by Shannan Martin (Nelson Books, 2018). She writes so many wise and challenging insights. Here are parts of her prayer from page 185:

“Oh Lord, remind us that what we really want is more of you. You show us what it means to remain where you have placed us with great purpose—
Show us the real way of worship, and grant us the guts to belong to each other when it’s hardest.
You are here, tuning our hearts to endurance, teaching us a love song for the long haul.
Help us to endure when we feel dog-tired. Have your way.” Shannon Martin

Lord, thank you for Shannan Martin’s inspiring book about living for you.

A pad of paper to write, make lists, and keep track of things. Dear God, thank you for little helps with my chores.

Vehicle recall notice—Lord, thank you that this car company will fix the rear subframe because it may corrode prematurely on de-iced roads. Thank you that someone figured this out and I can get it fixed before our snowy Minnesota roads next winter.

A Mother’s Day card that still makes me smile. Thank you, dear Jesus, for loved ones.

Church bulletin—Dear Lord God, thank you for our church. Thanks for events where we can serve you and sermon notes that challenge my attitude in serving you.

A self-help book—Lord, help me learn how to communicate with others, especially with those who see the world differently than I do. Motivate me to read and learn, especially the books that are Bible-based and give practical ideas.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) curriculum and posters—God, thank you that I get to serve little ones. Help me prepare thoroughly so that I can serve them with Jesus’ love.

A book to read and write a book review for my friend. Thank you, Lord, that B published her book series that honors you. It’s not my genre, but help me to write a good review for teens that need to read B’s work.

Health insurance paperwork—The premiums seem like a lot to pay, but thank you, Lord, for your provision for me in case of illness.

Donation receipts—Thank you, dear God, for blessing me far beyond my essential needs. Motivate me to give, so that I don’t selfishly keep your blessings to myself.

Lord, thank you for opportunities: new recipes to try, an upcoming seminar, and webinar notes from an interesting seminar.

My GriefShare workbook, leader’s guide, and training notes—Dear Jesus, thank you for this program that brings your comfort to grieving people, like it did for me. Bring the people you choose to our leadership team and guide us in scheduling and preparing for our next session.

Lord God, You have blessed me with guidance, direction, and purpose throughout this pile of papers. Help me to be grateful for the blessings represented by this paperwork. Teach me to love and serve you through the many opportunities you have given me. Forgive me for being irritated and complaining about being busy. I pray like Shannon Martin did: “even when I am dog-tired, have your way in my life.” In Jesus’ name. Amen.

January 27, 2026 by Kristina Lunde Leave a Comment

A Jesus Appointment

A random stop in a small town surprised us with a Jesus appointment for conversation and prayer. As Minnesotans traveling to our grandchildren’s winter concert, my husband and I allowed extra time for the three-hour drive. Arriving early, we chose a local establishment to spend time before the high school music event. Not sure if the place was open on weekday afternoons, we hesitantly stepped into the dining area. After a warm welcome by the manager, we picked choice seats among the high-top tables. Once he brought us water glasses and menus, we were waited on by a friendly server. I immediately noticed her eyes—kind but sad.

The only customers there, we had the luxury of the server’s undivided attention and conversation. After some small talk, she apologetically asked if she could ask a personal question. We agreed, and she asked us how long we had been married. As an older couple on their second marriage, our answer to that question sometimes surprises people. Hearing our answer of thirteen years, our server continued with another apology and a few more questions.

This time she asked what we found important in our relationship and what we liked most about each other. Our answers were not eloquent or lengthy. Faith topped each of our priority lists for marriage. Her request to name an attribute we appreciated most about our spouse brought smiles and longer descriptions.

Once we engaged our server in the conversation, she shared that her name was L. Then she relayed details of serious events in her life: challenges of grief, trauma, divorce, and family dysfunction. Her transparency about so much pain saddened me, and I started silently praying.

After L walked back to the kitchen, my husband told me he felt God’s nudge to pray with her. When she returned to our table, L lingered longer as we spoke to her about Jesus. I spoke of Jesus’ death on the cross and the forgiveness He freely offers. I briefly mentioned my first husband’s sudden death and how God had comforted and helped me through all of that.

With a still-empty dining room, I asked if I could pray for her. My brief prayer asked Jesus to show L His love and draw her to Him for healing and forgiveness. She was teary-eyed, grateful, and hugged me afterward. By then, she had other customers to serve. Later when we paid our bill, we said a brief goodbye. I gave her another hug and promised to pray for her.

Now, my heart is committed to pray for L. I still pray to God for the things she shared with us: her emotions, pain, and family concerns. I pray that He gives L a thirst for Jesus and reveals Himself to her. May God use other Christians and His Word to bring His truth and knowledge to L.

Lord God, Thank you for our Jesus appointment with L. My heart aches for her and how much she needs you. Bring L to you, Lord. Fill in the gaps of what we said, so that she can fully understand who you are. Please meet L’s needs and show her how much you love her. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

December 31, 2025 by Kristina Lunde Leave a Comment

Christmas Insights to Last all Year

Lord of all creation, we celebrate the birth of your Son Jesus. Although King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus came to earth without human pageantry or celebrity recognition. From heaven’s throne to a stinky barn, He arrived seemingly unnoticed by anyone but His parents and farm animals. Yet an angel of the Lord shone with God’s glory and gave a prophetic birth announcement. The angels knew exactly who Jesus was and they broadcast it. No satellite signals to the entire planet. Instead, a multitude of the heavenly host lit up the sky, proclaiming God’s glory to rural shepherds.

Jesus, you broke every barrier, defied human conventions, and demonstrated your identity in unique ways from day one. The excitement of your birth, that we celebrate every Christmas, is commemorated in God’s miracles. So many glorious signs and wonders accompanied your birth: angel choirs, excited shepherds, a huge star, traveling academics, and royal baby gifts.

In contrast, Mary and Joseph might have focused on personal miracles, like their individual prophetic visits from angels. Other miracles included last-minute birth accommodations, visitors worshiping their newborn, and travel provisions given by wealthy strangers.

My Christmas Prayer

Lord God, teach me hospitality in your name. Guide me to recognize your work in other peoples’ lives. Let me speak your words of truth and hope to others. (Like Elizabeth welcomed and encouraged Mary in Luke 1:39-45.)

Please God, help me trust you when the night is dark, there is no place to rest, and pain comes upon me. (Like Mary and Joseph trusted you in Luke 2:6-7.)

Heavenly Father, make me faithful in worshiping and honoring you, especially in unexpected situations. (Like Mary glorified you in Luke 1:46-56 and the shepherds told others about you in Luke 2:9,15-20.)

Jesus, teach me to obey you and keep going. Show me how to follow your guidance, even when it involves sacrifice, danger, and detours. (Like the wise men obeyed you in Matthew 2:1-12).

Lord Jesus, just as you did for those who welcomed you as a baby, please teach me to trust and obey you. Help me to keep learning and applying those Christmas insights to my life, not just at Christmas but all through the new year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

September 30, 2025 by Kristina Lunde Leave a Comment

Praise before Please in Prayer

My prayers often start with my requests. Please, Lord, I need this. Lord, help me with this task. Please, God, do this for me. Yes, I usually add a please to my pleas, but I do not often praise before please. My needs prompt me to ask God first, pleading with Him for answers. But do I acknowledge the Lord of all creation who welcomes and hears my prayers?

Pray for my needs

My requests are often self-centered and self-serving. I ask God for what I have determined that I need and want. I balance my own equation of needs versus wants. But am I running that by my Lord and Savior, placing all requests in submission to His will? Am I letting God guide me so completely that I recognize His path and follow His purposes for me? Those are accountability questions that I need to answer if I am pursuing Jesus and His will for me.

Change my perspective

First of all, I need to determine who I am going to follow. If my top priority is Jesus, then my heart’s intent and life goals need to follow His will, not mine. Who determines my wants versus needs equation? Do I take charge of my needs or do I surrender them to God’s plan? Nothing wrong with presenting my needs to God, but my perspective must align with God’s Word and His will. If I pray for a new car out of jealousy over my friend’s car, I disobey the tenth commandment. Instead, God may have other purposes for the older cars we drive. For example, my husband and I enjoy a reputation as the “Engine Light Lundes” at our local automobile repair shop. We became friends with the owners and pray for them to know Jesus.

When my perspective aligns with God’s will, then I can realistically evaluate my wants and needs in consideration of the roles God has for me in this season. Sometimes, that means I need to respect and obey God when He gives a “no” answer to my prayer, especially when I do not understand the reasons. My vantage point then changes from a selfish outlook to God’s sovereign purposes.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Start with praise

Philippians 4:6-7 presents how to receive God’s peace as a solution for anxiety. Notice that thanksgiving goes along with bringing requests to God in prayer. Sometimes I focus on the supplication, petition (KJV), or “the ask.” The pain, need, or problem drives my prayer. But I can’t forget to thank my God, the omnipotent Lord of all creation, for blessings already given. Instead of starting with the please and pleading for my wants, I should start with praise for the One who hears. Put the praise before please. When I acknowledge His love for me, the salvation He provided, and what He means to me, that sets the tone for my prayer. I prayerfully reflect on God’s character, which helps me appreciate what He has already accomplished for me.

The ask should come after the realignment of my heart and mind. Praise first; then present my pleas. The wants seems so pressing at first. But when I examine them through the lens of God’s Word, He shows me His priorities. The Holy Spirit convicts me that some of my needs are actually sinful pursuits or selfish wants. When God’s lens zooms my attention in, I can set my sights on His plans. He knows the journey He walks me through, the places I need to be, and the work He has for me do.

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:13 NIV

Dear God, thank you for being my Savior and Lord. Teach me to pray with praise before please. Let me be so filled with praise for you, that honoring you comes first when I pray. Wipe out my selfish wants, so that my requests align with your will. Jesus, I want my heart, life, and actions to follow your plan, even if I don’t understand it. Let your Holy Spirit convict and strengthen me. Help me surrender to you—that is what I need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.