I start in my usual way.

I get into a comfortable position, and take a deep breath. I invite the Holy spirit to guide this time of prayer.

I thank God for the blessings of this last day and week. I recall them and thank the Lord.

I start by lifting up any anxiety or worries I feel surrounding fatherhood. I lift up all circumstances and situations that are outside of my control and ask for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding to rest on me.

I ask the Lord to take away any strain, stress or pressure that I am feeling in the lead up to becoming a father.

I thank him for giving me all the resources and tools I need to lead this family and to be a good father, as he has modeled in my own life.

I ask for the discernment to know what needs my partner may have, and ask for the wisdom and sensitivity to be a good father and partner.

I search my heart and identify times and moments in which I have fallen short of being who God wants me to be in my relationships. I ask for forgiveness and the courage and strength to do better.

I thank God for his guidance. I take a moment to remember his perfect love for me and ask that I may be a vessel of his love.

I commit the rest of the day and tomorrow into his hands.

I spend some time in meditation and reflection on the following verse:
”There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18 NIV)

I close in my usual way.