First United Methodist Church

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News & Devotions

Rise, Together Prayers (October 13-17)

We have officially begun our Rise, Together journey! Over the weeks ahead, we’ll reflect on what it means to deepen community, neighbor well, and steward the legacy God has entrusted to us.

As part of this season, we invite you to join a daily rhythm of prayer. Simple prompts to help us pause, seek God’s presence, and lift our community in faith together.

Text “RISE” to 407-634-1703 to receive a text of these prayers each morning.

Monday, October 13

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church… so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” Colossians 1:17-18

Lord Jesus, today we declare You as the foundation of all we do. Help us to build our lives, relationships, and dreams on Your Word and truth. Teach us to trust You above all else, especially when the world offers shaky alternatives. May our unity be grounded in Your unshakable Lordship. Lead us to rise together, rooted in You. Amen.

Tuesday, October 14

“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” Luke 9:23

God, we lay down our need for control and comfort today. Teach us to surrender—fully and daily—to Your Lordship. Help us walk in obedience even when we don’t fully understand. Use our willingness to submit as a catalyst for deeper unity and greater purpose. May Your will be done in us, through us, and around us. Amen.

Wednesday, October 15

“Therefore, I urge you… in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Romans 12:1

Father, so often we want to follow You on our terms. But today, we choose obedience over preference. Align our hearts with Yours. Help us to put aside selfishness, pride, and fear so we may walk in step with Your Spirit. Let our obedience inspire others to follow. Make us a people united by devotion to You. Amen.

Thursday, October 16

“Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock… it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” Matthew 7:24-25

Jesus, You are the solid rock beneath our feet. When life gets overwhelming, anchor us in Your Word and Your presence. Let every storm refine rather than ruin. Build our homes, church, and mission on the foundation of Your faithfulness. May we stand firm—individually and together—because we are grounded in You. Amen.

Friday, October 17

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11

Christ, You are before all things, and in You all things hold together. Keep us centered on You, not distracted by preferences or personalities. Let our unity be a reflection of Your divine harmony. Remind us daily that the Church is Yours. Teach us to follow You togetheras one body, one mission, one heart. Amen.