A Prayer About My Critical Spirit

When I look at life through a negative lens

HEAVENLY FATHER,

Lately being happy or even content has been difficult for me. I know the world is not perfect—I certainly am far from perfection—but I seem to expect it in others. Being a perfectionist is not good in a sinful, imperfect world. Individuals’ faults seem to jump out at me—I see them clearly. And I don’t like what I hear from elected officials to weather forecasters or the treatment I receive from store clerks and restaurant staff. Even worse, I often open my mouth and voice my observations and thoughts to anyone who will listen. This attitude has spilled over into my church life, and these days I seem to criticize everyone and everything: the teaching is boring, the worship songs are too old or too new, the preaching isn’t deep, the child nearby is too noisy . . . I don’t like the kind of person I’m becoming, Father. Please remove my critical spirit. Give me your perspective, focusing on my blessings and the good in others. And help me celebrate all your gifts.

Let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Romans 14:19