Our Heavenly Father,

Thank you that we can stand together as your people in this land you have appointed for us to be in called Singapore.

We are reminded that you have chosen us to be your children, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, based on the sacrifice and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3;2:9).

And so our hearts are filled with gratitude and worship for what only you could do and have done.

At the same time, we ask humbly for your forgiveness as we repent of any lukewarmness, knowing that “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people”. (Proverbs 14:34). Help us to be blameless and ever declare your praises, for you have called us out of darkness into your wonderful light.

We take a moment now to thank you for Singapore as we celebrate her 55th National Day.

Despite the COVID-19 crisis, we thank You for your goodness and grace to our nation all these years.

We acknowledge and ask for your continued sovereign hand of mercy and protection on all of us, externally from any untoward intentions and influences and internally, for us to live holy and purposeful lives as citizens that shine our light in good works of demonstrated care for one another (Matthew 5:16).

Keep our spiritual eyes and ears open to your leading and enabling to know and share your hope (Ephesians 1:18-19) and keep our hands and legs ready to make a difference with your gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15).

With the love you have poured into our hearts by your Holy Sprit, help us be a blessing in and beyond our family – to likewise love our neighbour (Luke 10:37), the migrants in our land (Jeremiah 22:3), the orphans and widows living in poverty (James 1:27) and others struggling mentally or financially during these times (Colossians 3:12; Proverbs 14:31).

As you have urged us in Scripture, we pray too, especially, for our elected leaders and all those in authority to steer the country wisely in the way that pleases and honours You, so that we may lead “peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-4).

It is our fervent desire that we your children live lives worthy of the Gospel (Philippians 1:27) and so seek to press on toward the goal of Christlike maturity (Philippians 3:12-14).

Hear us, O Lord, as we ask all these in your Son’s most holy, mighty and precious Name.

Amen.