Day 9:  30 Days of Prayer for Hope

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-12)

Hope Unlimited staff face the daily challenge of earning the trust of hurting children. Try to imagine the realities of the children we serve: every adult you have encountered in your life has abused, abandoned, or exploited you; trusting any adult is extremely difficult. In order for our kids to allow themselves to heal in our care, to make good choices based on our instruction, and to thrive, they must trust that the adults at Hope have their best interests at heart.

Lord, even as we trust you and the path you place before us, please help these children to trust the ones helping them chart the paths of their lives. Give the Hope Unlimited staff discernment, wisdom, and perseverance to nurture your children today.