A Prayer About Role Models

When I think about who is influencing me

LORD ABOVE,

Throughout my life people have influenced me greatly by how they lived and what they taught. Early on, parents and teachers made the most powerful impact. Then came coaches, directors, pastors, and youth leaders. Along the way I was impressed by close friends. I can see that I picked up my values by emulating them. This was not a conscious process, but I changed through their influence. Some of my choices of role models were not the best, but thank you for giving me godly men and women who pointed me to you. That’s in the past, but I know I am still influenced by others whom I admire. I still need someone to coach me. So I pray for new role models who will encourage and prod me to live for you. And please avert my gaze from those who would lead me the wrong way. My primary example should be Jesus—I need to keep watching him. I also want to be a godly example for those who look up to me, modeling your values.

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. Hebrews 13:7