If there is any impossible part of the Christian life, it is having the right passion. The human heart is self-centered to the core, and by nature we have no use for obeying God. So, even once regenerate, we have quite a struggle to break free of our usual heart patterns and become inflamed. This lack is so painful and frustrating. If God would grant me one wish as He did to Solomon, I would ask for a burning passion to glorify God in every inch of my life. I don't want to be passionate directly for others, but be passionate for glorifying God directly through my relationship with Him and through bestowing grace and Gospel on others. I want a God-passion that also functions as an others-passion. And so I offer this prayer.
Sovereign God, You are my desire. I am weak in heart, And my love often fails. But You, You give mercy, Giving me second chances, And You, You give grace, Giving me what I cannot have.
So, God of all grace, Give me what I lack. Grant me repentance From all apathy and distraction And grant me faith To trust Your word of Yourself, To believe You are worth Everything I can live for. I ask for a passion, A fire in my heart, To see You exalted In all of my life, In every last part. In my dealings alone, Let me pursue You, And in my dealings with others, Let me display You.
For You so loved the world You gave Your only Son So all who believe in Him Will not be lost to Hell But forever enjoy You. You made the earth, The heavens and all within, So give me passion For the Maker of worlds. As I see Your splendor And observe Your works, Give me a heart To seek You always And show You to all. To You be the glory, The honor and praise, My life and passion, Forever and ever. Amen.