Before the Meetings: A Morning Prayer

Start by simply noticing who Jesus is—especially the parts of His character that steady you right now. You might turn your attention to His wisdom: He sees what you cannot see, knows what matters most, and holds the outcome in His hands. As Scripture reminds us, 'The Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding' (Proverbs 2:6, ESV). Spend a moment telling Jesus what draws you to trust Him this morning. Maybe it's His patience, His ability to calm a room, His care for people—whatever comes to mind. You're not performing here; just name it, and let gratitude rise as you do.

Now bring the weight you're carrying into the room. Are you anxious about how a conversation might go? Worried about being misunderstood, or about standing firm when it's hard? Do you feel unprepared, or afraid of disappointing someone? Jesus invites you to lay it down: 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest' (Matthew 11:28, ESV). There's no shame in admitting where your confidence shakes. You might also gently notice if there's any pride, defensiveness, or unkindness lurking—any part of you that's hoping to win rather than serve. Whisper it to Him. His mercy is already moving toward you.

Before you walk into those meetings, pause to name something—even something small—that you're grateful for. Maybe it's that you get to work alongside people you respect. Maybe it's that you've been given a voice and a seat at the table. Maybe it's simply that you woke up, and He woke with you. 'Rejoice always... In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God' (Philippians 4:4, 6, ESV). Let thankfulness soften your morning. It doesn't erase the hard parts, but it reminds you that you're not walking into meetings alone—you're walking into them held.

Now ask. Ask Jesus for what you need. Steady hands. A calm voice. Ears that truly listen. Ask for wisdom to know when to speak and when to listen. Ask for humility—the kind that lets you learn from someone you disagree with. Ask for courage if you need to say something difficult, and for gentleness when others are struggling. 'If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you' (James 1:5, ESV). You might also ask Him to be present in the room itself—to soften hearts, to clarify confusion, to help people hear one another. Tell Him specifically what this day needs. He is listening, and He delights in your asking.