Praying for Mercy and Action

As we continue learning from Daniel’s prayers, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us that we are completely reliant on God’s love and forgiveness—and that Daniel’s approach is a blueprint for praying with spiritual power.

First, appeal for mercy. Daniel doesn’t present God with reasons he deserves an answer. Instead, he pleads on the basis of God’s covenant character: “We do not make requests… because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy” (Daniel 9:16–18). Daniel’s driving concern wasn’t comfort, success, or ease—it was the glory of God. This devotional calls you to pray the same way: acknowledge you don’t deserve God’s blessings, yet trust Him because He is merciful and faithful.

Second, petition for God to act. Daniel prays with urgency and clarity: “Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act!” (Daniel 9:19). His requests aren’t selfish—they’re aimed at God being honored and His Name being vindicated. Dr. Youssef encourages believers to pray boldly for God to move in ways that most clearly display that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.

If you’ve been hesitant to pray specifically or feel unworthy to ask for God’s intervention, this devotional will help you recover the right posture: humility before God, confidence in His mercy, and God-centered petitions that seek His highest glory.

Prayer: God, as I humble myself before You, I realize that I don’t deserve Your blessings, but I am grateful that You are a merciful God. Apart from You, I am nothing. God, I pray that You would take action, showing Yourself strong, so that You would receive all praise and glory. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Focus: “Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name” (Psalm 119:132).

Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon Life-Changing Prayers, Part 1: LISTEN NOW

The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today’s devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don’t have to walk through it alone. 

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