For His name's sake...

"...he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."

Psalm 23:3b

Father, help us to understand that all you've said and done, past, present and future have been for the glory of your name. Let us not be so quick to sing "just for me" when we know that you have said in your word that will not share your glory with another. Remind us that we carry your name wherever we go if we call ourselves Christian's and help us to paint a better picture of who you are for the world. It is true that you died for us. It is true that in all your actions you have our best interest at heart, but we think we know our best interest and that's why we get so confused. Ultimately all that you do is to direct each eternity seeking soul to the one true God, eternity's creator...You. Thank you for always leading us to paths of righteousness, for always providing a way out of temptation. If not for you, we like sheep would graze the same fields of sin and death without relief. We would go our own way, and Lord we battle that still. It's hard to admit at times. Most of us would much rather and much more quickly admit that we're disciples of Christ then admit that we're seeking to bend your will to ours with our prayers and our actions. Please lead us to your paths Lord... your pastures. I know you do this anyway, because that's your grace for your people, but help us to walk in them Lord, the paths you choose for us. Help us to carry your name in truth. Help us to live uprightly and with integrity OF HEART, not just an outward appearance that keeps everyone thinking we're your disciples. Make us your disciples. Help us to lie down in the pastures you've provided by the still waters you've led us to. Remind us to look to you in everything for your leading and your glory. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.