thirty-one virtues

(image via red fish photos)

I once heard that Shirley Dobson wrote a prayer for her two children every morning.  I remember being impressed by such a commitment and wanting to give the gift of prayer (both on behalf of them and taught to them) to my children as well.  Since giving birth to Ezra my dedication to prayer is stronger than ever, so I was excited when my friend Jaclyn sent this list of Biblical virtues my way.  There are thirty-one virtues, one for each day of the month.  I'm looking forward to praying for Ezra to develop these qualities as he grows and matures.  How do you pray for your children?

Humility – pray for the willingness to submit (James 4:10)

Reverence – pray for the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10)

Purity – pray for a desire to be clean (Matthew 5:8)

Purpose – pray for the wisdom to set goals (Proverbs 4:25)

Simplicity – pray for an uncluttered lifestyle (Romans 12:8)

Commitment – pray for dedication to the “cause” (Joshua 24:15)

Diligence – pray for a willingness to work hard (2 Peter 1:5)

Servanthood – pray for a ministry of helps (Galatians 6:9-10)

Consistency – pray for a quality of faithfulness (James 1:8)

Assurance – pray for depth of faith (Hebrews 10:22)

Availability – pray for a willingness to go (Isaiah 6:8)

Loyalty – pray for a zeal for fidelity (Ruth 1:16)

Sensitivity – pray for openness of heart (Luke 10:30-37)

Compassion – pray for love to be exhibited in action (Mark 8:1-2)

Tenderness – pray for a willingness to weep (2 Kings 22:19)

Maturity – pray for the capacity to grow (Hebrews 5:12-14)

Holiness – pray for Christ-like behavior (1 Peter 1:16)

Reliability – pray for a depth of dependability (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Revelation – pray for the ability to listen (Ephesians 1:15-18)

Denial – pray for a spirit of sacrifice and surrender (Luke 9:23)

Confidence – pray for a spirit of boldness (Philippians 4:13)

Integrity – pray for a quality of truthfulness (Romans 12:17)

Repentance – pray for a willingness to change (Luke 3:8)

Trust – pray for fearless reliance (Psalm 125:1)

Submission – pray for a willingness to yield (Ephesians 5:21)

Teachability – pray for a quality of meekness (Titus 3:2)

Prayer – pray for a longing to wait (Isaiah 40:31)

Unity – pray for a respect for others (1 Corinthians 1:10)

Restoration – pray for a ministry of healing (Isaiah 61:1-2)

Authority – pray for a capacity to command (Matthew 16:19)

Generosity – pray for the desire to give (Matthew 10:8)

[adapted from the Modern Day Joseph blog]