First of all, God, thanks for the opportunity for another year. Your Word says you make all things new. We are looking at today as the first day of a New Year filled with new blessings from you.
For some, the farm looks different. Smaller, larger or totally non-existence. For those who had to close the door for the last time we pray an extra dose of peace. Help them to see that God’s blessings don’t stop at the edge of a field. That God has a plan and purpose beyond the farm. Give them grace to let go of the disappointment, hurt and perhaps anger that comes with this great change. Help them to trust the unseen future.
Many see last year as the year from hell for farmers. Yes, it’s been tough but help us to see the many blessings that slipped through while we had our eyes turned to our challenges and problems. Help us to keep our eyes on you and your creation.
While many problems were overwhelming and some actually won over our physicality, none were a surprise to you. Help us to see that you were walking beside and knew what we were feeling. Remind us that there were many “unseen” challenges that you took care of that we will never know.
We thank you ahead of time for the healing you are doing in relationships. Family farming isn’t for the weak. We pray for marriages, for parent and kids who work side by side. Prayers for those who are joining the family farm that there would be an easy transition. Thank you for the great employees you are bringing our way. Help us to be the kind of leaders that serve them in a way they see us differently than other employers.
Also, we pray for the physical healing from illness, injuries and stress. We ask for an extra dose of your presence for those who are dealing with depression, insecurity and other emotions. Stress is a horrible thing yet we know you are more than capable of soothing our worries and concerns.
As spring approaches, help us to be in a spirit of positive expectations with an appreciative heart. Keep our minds set on the love we have for the land and critters. To remember it’s an honor to be part of the small community you entrust with this task.
When the past and the memories of the hardships enter our thoughts help us to chase them away with a grateful praise for what you have done before and what you are going to do. Help us leave the long dark road of last year in the past and be a light of joy to others.
We pray for protection this year. That your provision will be great and in abundance. So much so that it overflows from us to others.
Most importantly, thank you for choosing us to take care of your critters and creation. And for the blessings of beautiful sunrises, sunsets, full fields of lush alfalfa, grass fields waving in the breeze, row after row of corn reaching for the skies. To hear your music as the wind dances through the treetops, the birds singing your songs, the cattle and other critters that bring sound to your harmonic score.
With grateful hearts we pray.
