Years ago, the Lord gave me the promise above for my marriage. After decades of offenses building up between my husband, Joe, and me, our relationship needed some serious healing and renewal. As I asked the Lord to make our marriage new and fresh, I saw Him transform our relationship in every area, and make it better in every way. But I had to do my part in the process. With God's help, and persistent prayer, I did my best every day to resist being resentful, critical, and overly sensitive - and to be more loving and attentive.

Lately, I have been sensing the Lord prompting me to pray for Him to renew my other relationships, too. And you can do the same thing. Perhaps you have some relationships that are strained, distant, or tense. Maybe there's a serious lack of communication between you and some of your loved ones. Perhaps there are even some misunderstandings that are coming between you that the Lord would like to help you clear up.

When God wants to improve certain relationships of ours, He will often give us a sense of uneasiness where they are concerned. The very first thing we should do is to admit the truth to the Lord, and ask Him to direct our prayers according to His will. As He shows us what our part is in the renewal process, and as we take steps of obedience with His Spirit's help, He will intervene and do what only He can do - "make all things new."

You and I can have better relationships than we have ever had before, if we will simply cooperate with the Lord and His renewal plans. Today, ask God to make your relationships new. Get specific and pray bold prayers. You will be absolutely amazed at what He can do!

Prayer: Lord, I believe Your Word which says that You have the power to make all things new, including my relationships. Make me sensitive and obedient to Your Spirit's leading in these matters, revealing to me how I can do my part with Your help. Show me when I am being critical or overly sensitive, and strengthen my resolve to obey You. Thank You that as I cooperate with You and Your renewal plans, I will see You work wonders in my relationships!