Love Because: Devotions for In-Law RelationshipsSýnishorn

Love Them in Prayer

I have received much spiritual counsel over the years from my husband, but one of my favorites was when he reminded me that the objective of prayer should bethat it changes us. Prayer needs to change us.

Prayer naturally softens our hearts toward the person we are praying for, and this invisible work surpasses every effort we might make in the visible world.

If you truly believe your in-laws are deficient in some serious manner or have wronged you on some deep account, the first step is going to the Lord in prayer. It can be in the moment or after the moment, but it must occur. Ask Him for wisdom, for guidance. Ask Him to move His hand to will and to work on behalf of your in-laws and your relationship with them. And most of all, ask Him through prayer to change your thought life regarding your in-laws.

These verses from 1 Peter can refer not only to anxious thoughts but also to jealous thoughts, fearful thoughts, deceitful thoughts, and any other sinful thoughts that have no place in the Christian’s life. We can think, Oh, no big deal, it’s just my thought life. But God sees that thought life, which truly influences us, and we’re called to take every area into submission to Christ.

If you’re thinking, Well, my thought life is fine, please get in touch with me; I’d love to touch the hem of your garment. The truth is that our thoughts also need to obey the Lord above all else, and this is a very important detail of our lives that He will enjoy working out for our good and His glory.

Application: In what ways can you commit to regularly praying for your in-laws? Go to the Lord now on their behalf.