Praying with Paul: 'Imitating God'

Dear Father, worthy of my love and obedience,

Let nothing evil come out of my mouth - only what is good for building others up. Let whatever I say fit the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear.

Don't let me do anything that would grieve your Holy Spirit within me, by which I have been sealed for the day of redemption. Help me get rid of all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and slander, and especially anything malicious. Help me to be kind to others, tenderhearted, and forgiving, even as you have forgiven me in Christ.

Father, I want to imitate you, as a loving child would imitate a father.

And may I walk in love, even as Christ loved me and gave himself up for me, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to you.

In the name of Jesus who sacrificed himself for my sake. Amen.