ILLUMINATE THE WAY

Prayer is the greatest weapon you have to lighten your load, find guidance, and experience greater peace of mind in your life.

And when done with others.

 “For where  two  or  more  gather in my name,

there  am I with  them …”

– Matthew 18:20

 When I left college and went into banking, I did all of the things that I was told to be a professional.

One of those things was to keep my personal views of faith to myself.

 Unless I was a pastor or a minister, it didn’t belong in the workplace.

I learned you didn't cross certain lines in a business setting – and that was one of them.

Wanting to advance in my career, I did what I was told … and over time, adopted secular thinking – and lost my way.

I stopped praying and relied heavily on me, myself, and I to get the job done.

After leaving banking and entering into the world of Federal law enforcement, this was reinforced further as there was no place for faith in the government.

 Working in the New York metropolitan area during 9/11, I was at a breaking point.

 And I knew something had to change.

 I found my way back into a church -- where all I did was cry.

 Reading through the church bulletin, I saw an advertisement for a S.E.A.R.C.H. Retreat, and I signed up not really knowing why I felt compelled to attend.

 As it turns out, S.E.A.R.C.H. is a peer-based retreat providing candidates with tools, fellowship, and prayer to bring their relationship with Jesus into their everyday life.

 On that weekend, I emptied my backpack of all of the things I had been carrying by myself, and allowed Jesus to lighten my load.

 “Do not be anxious about anything,

but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God.”

– Philippians 4:6

But, bring prayer into everyday life? How could I do that?!?

 Well, it turns out it’s pretty easy to do.

 There’s no specific requirement or training needed.

You just enter into a dialogue with God, and share what’s on your heart.

 When I worked in the government, I began incorporating prayer into many facets of my life, even hosting bar-b-que lunches for my team for different saint feast days.

 I talked about my faith journey to the guys I worked with on the piers and in many different avenues - and the power of prayer opened countless doors for myself and others.

Yet, I stood at a crossroads again when I left my career and first opened my business.

I found it hard to share my personal prayer life in a public forum.

 I was afraid my love of God would repel clients … so I kept my faith hidden.

Behind the scenes, my friends and family knew how important my faith was, and in front of the public, I was all business.

 One day, my marketing director told me that I needed to be more vulnerable, as I was “unrelatable. “

 Sigh.

 I’ve heard that before.

So, I stepped out a little and added a blurb in my bio that read,

“Connected to God, she lets Him lead.”

 And then I held my breath waiting for the backlash.

 Yet none came.

 In fact, folks began asking me about it wanting to know more about how I did this.

 And I would tell them about my prayer life.

“Continue  steadfastly  in prayer, being  watchful  in it with  thanksgiving.”

– Colossians 4:2

 Then I stepped out a bit more, and invited clients who attended my Upside Retreats to go to church with me.

 And, I held my breath waiting for someone to complain.

 No one did.

In fact, folks who were Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim, Atheist, and more attended mass with me over the years.

 They would ask me about my prayers – and I would ask them about theirs.

 Along the way, I’ve shared more and more about how I incorporate prayer into every aspect of my daily life and how it fuels Upside Thinking.

 Today, I even offer a course on how to Access the Divine Operating System – and bring God into your everyday life and business decisions.

 Which brings me to this ...

If prayer is an important aspect to run my business,

what can I do to share it and -- elevate it?

 That’s what led to hiring our first chaplain, and setting up this page.

 “For I  know  the plans I  have for you, declares  the Lord, plans  to  prosper you and not  to harm you,

plans to give  you  hope  and a future.”

– Jeremiah 29:11

May God bless you and you feel His Love at all times - especially in your times of need. 

 Pray for Us … Become an Upside Prayer Warrior

Every Monday, Amy will send out an email to folks who have it on their heart to pray for this community.

If you want to be part of this special group of folks who pray for Upside Thinking, fill out the form below.

 “ Therefore, I  tell  you, whatever you  ask in prayer, believe  that  you  have  received it, and it  will  be  yours.”

– Mark 11:24



Let Us Pray for You …

If there’s something that’s heavy on your heart, and you’d like us to pray for you, fill out the form below and submit your prayer request. You can also submit an anonymous prayer request below as well.

  “Rejoice  always, pray  without  ceasing, give  thanks  in  all  circumstances …” 

– 1 Thessalonians 5:16

SUBMIT AN ANONYMOUS PRAYER REQUEST …

Prayer for Wisdom

"Heavenly Father, I come before you seeking wisdom and understanding. As I navigate through the complexities of life, grant me the ability to discern what is right and true. Help me to make decisions that align with your will and bring glory to your name. Fill my mind with clarity and my heart with peace as I trust in your guidance. Let your wisdom lead me in every step I take, and may I always seek your counsel in all matters. Amen."

Prayer for Direction

"Dear Lord, in moments of uncertainty, I turn to you for direction. I feel lost and unsure of the path I should take. Illuminate my way with your divine light and lead me toward the purpose you have set for my life. Help me to listen to your voice and recognize your signs. Give me the patience to wait for your timing and the courage to follow where you lead, even when the road seems difficult. Strengthen my faith and trust in your plan, knowing that you are always with me. Amen.

Prayer for Physical Healing

"Heavenly Father, I come to you with a body that is in need of healing. I ask that you touch me with your healing hands and restore my health. Remove any illness, pain, and discomfort from my body, and grant me strength and vitality. I trust in your power to heal and renew. Help me to be patient in my recovery and to lean on your promises of health and wholeness. Surround me with your love and peace, and let your healing power flow through every part of me. In your mercy, hear my prayer. Amen."

Prayer for Emotional Healing

"Lord, my heart is heavy with emotional pain and wounds that need healing. I ask for your gentle touch to mend the brokenness within me. Help me to release any hurt, anger, and bitterness that I hold onto, and fill my heart with your peace and love. Grant me the strength to forgive those who have hurt me and to seek forgiveness where I have caused pain. Let your comforting presence bring solace to my soul, and guide me towards emotional wholeness and joy. Restore my spirit and renew my hope in you. Amen."

Prayer for Inner Peace

"Dear God, my mind is troubled, and my heart is restless. I seek your peace that surpasses all understanding. Calm my anxious thoughts and fill my soul with tranquility. Help me to cast all my worries and burdens upon you, knowing that you care for me. Let your peace guard my heart and mind, keeping me steady and secure in your love. Guide me to a place of stillness where I can hear your voice and feel your presence. May your peace reign in my life, bringing harmony and serenity. Amen."

Prayer for Peace in the World

"Lord, we lift up our world to you, a world filled with conflict, division, and strife. We pray for your peace to descend upon all nations and peoples. Touch the hearts of leaders and individuals alike, inspiring them to seek reconciliation and understanding. Heal the wounds of war and violence, and replace hatred with love and compassion. Let your spirit of peace flow through our communities, bringing unity and harmony. Help us to be instruments of your peace, working towards a world where justice and love prevail. Amen."

Prayer for Daily Blessings

"Lord, thank you for the simple and profound blessings that fill each day. For the breath in my lungs, the food on my table, and the roof over my head, I am truly grateful. Help me to see your blessings in the ordinary moments and to appreciate the beauty of your creation. Guide me to live each day with a heart full of gratitude, acknowledging your presence in every aspect of my life. May I always be mindful of your grace and generosity, and may I share your blessings with others. Amen."

Prayer of Thanksgiving

"Heavenly Father, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the countless blessings you have bestowed upon me. Thank you for your unfailing love, your grace, and your provision. I am grateful for the gift of life, for my family and friends, and for the opportunities and experiences that enrich my days. Help me to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in all circumstances, recognizing your hand at work in every moment. May my life be a testament to your goodness, and may I always give thanks with a joyful heart. Amen."

Prayer for Family

"Dear God, I lift up my family to you, asking for your blessings and guidance. Strengthen the bonds of love and unity between us. Help us to support and care for one another with patience and understanding. May we be a source of encouragement and joy to each other, reflecting your love in our relationships. Grant us the grace to resolve conflicts with kindness and to forgive each other as you have forgiven us. Let our home be a place of peace and love, where your presence is felt and honored. Amen."

Prayer for Friendship

"Lord, thank you for the gift of friendship and for the friends who bless my life. I pray for your blessings upon them, that they may be filled with your love and grace. Help us to grow together in faith and to support each other in times of joy and sorrow. May our friendships be rooted in mutual respect, honesty, and love. Guide us to be good friends who listen, encourage, and uplift one another. Let our connections be a reflection of your love, and may we always cherish and nurture our friendships. Amen.

Prayer for Forgiving Others

"Heavenly Father, I struggle with the pain of being hurt by others. Help me to forgive those who have wronged me, just as you have forgiven me. Grant me the grace to let go of anger, resentment, and bitterness. Fill my heart with your love and compassion, allowing me to see others through your eyes. Help me to release the burden of unforgiveness and to find freedom in your grace. May my actions and words reflect your forgiveness, bringing healing to my relationships and peace to my soul.

Amen."



Prayer for Personal Forgiveness

"Lord, I come before you with a repentant heart, seeking your forgiveness for my mistakes and shortcomings. I acknowledge my sins and ask for your mercy and grace. Cleanse my heart and renew my spirit, helping me to turn away from wrongdoing and to follow your righteous path. Give me the strength to forgive myself and to accept your forgiveness. Help me to learn from my errors and to grow in faith and character. May your love and grace transform my life, guiding me towards a closer relationship with you. Amen."

Prayer for Protection

"Dear God, I seek your protection for myself and my loved ones. Shield us from harm and danger, and surround us with your angels. Keep us safe from physical, emotional, and spiritual threats. Grant us the wisdom to make safe choices and the strength to stand firm in faith. Help us to trust in your protection and to find peace in your presence. May your loving arms be a refuge for us in times of trouble, and may we always feel secure in your care. Amen."

Prayer for Safe Travel

"Lord, as I embark on this journey, I pray for your protection and guidance. Keep me safe from accidents, harm, and any unforeseen dangers. Grant me a smooth and uneventful trip, and bring me safely to my destination. Help me to remain vigilant and cautious, and to trust in your watchful care. May your presence be with me throughout the journey, providing comfort and assurance. Thank you for your constant protection and for guiding my way. Amen."

Prayer for Financial Stability

"Heavenly Father, I come to you with my financial concerns, seeking your provision and guidance. Help me to manage my resources wisely and to be a good steward of the blessings you have given me. Provide for my needs and grant me the wisdom to make sound financial decisions. Bless my efforts and open doors of opportunity for growth and stability. Help me to trust in your provision and to remain grateful for what I have. May your abundance flow into my life, enabling me to support myself and others. Amen."

Prayer for Stronger Faith

"Dear God, I desire to grow stronger in my faith and trust in you. Life's trials and challenges often shake my confidence, but I know that you are my rock and fortress. Strengthen my faith, Lord, and help me to rely on your promises. Increase my understanding of your word and deepen my relationship with you. Let my faith be unshakable, even in the face of adversity. Fill me with your Holy Spirit, and guide me to live a life that reflects your love and truth. May my faith be a light to others, drawing them closer to you. Amen."

Prayer for Spiritual Growth

"Heavenly Father, I yearn to grow closer to you and to deepen my spiritual journey. Help me to seek you with all my heart and to cultivate a life of prayer, worship, and study of your word. Grant me the wisdom to understand your teachings and the grace to apply them in my daily life. Surround me with a community of believers who will encourage and support me in my faith. Transform my heart and mind, shaping me into the person you created me to be. May my life be a testament to your glory, and may I continually grow in love, joy, and peace. Amen."

Prayer for New Beginnings

"Dear Lord, as I embark on a new chapter in my life, I seek your guidance and blessing. Change can be both exciting and daunting, and I ask for your presence to be with me through every step. Grant me the courage to embrace new opportunities and the wisdom to navigate challenges. Help me to trust in your plan and to be open to your leading. May this new beginning be filled with hope, growth, and your abundant grace. Let your light shine through me as I step into this new season. Amen."

Prayer for Comfort in Loss

"Lord, I am grieving the loss of a loved one, and my heart is heavy with sorrow. I ask for your comfort and peace to envelop me during this difficult time. Help me to find solace in your presence and to lean on your everlasting arms. Grant me the strength to face each day and the courage to move forward, even as I carry this pain. Surround me with supportive and loving people who will walk with me through this journey of grief. Let your love and compassion be a balm to my soul. Amen."

Prayer for Comfort in Times of Anxiety

"Heavenly Father, my mind is often troubled with worry and anxiety. I come to you seeking your comfort and peace. Help me to cast all my anxieties on you, knowing that you care for me. Calm my racing thoughts and quiet my fears. Fill me with your peace that surpasses all understanding. Grant me the assurance that you are in control and that your plans for me are good. May your comforting presence be with me always, providing strength and hope. Amen."