I am ready, God, to put stuff behind me. There are habits I have that I know hold me back, and I long to be free of them. You know what they are, my own version of Paul’s thorn in the flesh, and I can’t seem to shake them on my own. I know it is only you that can set me free, as my willpower does not seem to be enough. There are those mistakes I have made that I know you have forgiven, but when I bring them to mind, I am filled with shame. Why can’t I let them go if you have forgiven me? There are attitudes and angers that I continue to feed, marinating all my words and actions in them. There are anxieties that paralyze me and keep me from becoming all that you say I can be. I long to be done with that.
Most of all, God, set me free from that selfish nature, a continual focus on myself and my own needs and wants. Rescue me from my preoccupation with self that I may be your instrument for others. Set me free for the joy and peace that comes with a life walking in the light of your love. Amen.