Thursday - Because He Lives

Welcome to Daily Prayer. This is Week 5 of the Because He Lives series — encounters with the risen Jesus. This week we pray through the encounter the disciples had with Jesus in Galilee, where he spoke one of the most meaningful passages in Scripture — the Great Commission. Let us quiet our hearts and minds before the Lord, anticipating a special connection with him today. Father, today we give everyone and everything to you.

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV)

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Word of Encouragement

Jesus speaks of baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is about identity. You are brought into the life of God into His family. You are no longer defined by your past. You are not defined by your failures or fears or emotions. You belong to Him. And from that place of belonging—you live, love, and move.

A Prayer of Adoration

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—I worship you. You are perfect in unity, love, and relationship. You have invited me into that relationship. You are a perfect Father, a faithful Savior, and a present Helper. Your love is steady and your relationship is secure.

A Prayer of Thankfulness

Father, thank you for making me yours. Thank you that I am not alone. I belong to you—not because of what I’ve done, but because of your grace. Thank you that my identity is not fragile or temporary. Thank you that nothing can separate me from your love.

A Prayer of Petition

Jesus, help me live from this identity. When I feel insecure—remind me I belong. When I feel distant—draw me close. When I forget who I am—anchor me in your truth. Let my life reflect that I am yours. Heal the places in my heart that can still search for worth in other things. Teach me to live with confidence, humility, and security as your child.

Closing Prayer

During these last few moments, simply repeat this quietly: “I belong to God.” Let it settle into your heart. Now make it a personal prayer. Declare, “Father, I belong to You.” Say it as many times as you need. Say with humility. Say it with confidence. Say it with joy and gratitude. Say it until you sense your mind, heart, and emotions lining up behind this truth.