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May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer

(Psalm 19:14). Bonus Reading: Proverbs 2:3-6

The questions that had to be answered in the Oval Office were the most difficult ones our nation faced. Knowing how many lives could be affected by my decisions, I felt a special need for wisdom and a sense of God's presence. Although I had a lot of advice from all sides, it was a lonely job during times of crisis or when the issues were especially controversial.

I prayed more during those four years than at any other time in my life, asking for God's guidance in making the right decisions on behalf of the American people. There was a small private office a few steps from the Oval Office where I kept my personal [belongings]. I would go to this place for my most serious prayers.

Also, I started each day by reciting one or two brief thoughts while walking past the Rose Garden on the way from our living quarters in the White House to my office. One of them was [today's Key Bible Verse]. The effort to maintain a partnership with God was reassuring to me and, at the same time humbling, helping me to resist the temptations of isolation and arrogance that all leaders face.

—Jimmy Carter in Living Faith

Do you take a moment to pray at crucial times in your work?

Deep in your heart it is not guidance that you want as much as a guide.

John White (WRITER)

Credits: Adapted from--Wednesday: Living Faith (Random-House, 1996)

1999 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity. For reprint information call 630-260-6200 or e-mail mail@menofintegrity.net.
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