Birthdays are sacred milestones—gentle reminders of God’s faithfulness, love, and the gift of life. When someone dear to us, like a cousin, celebrates another year, it’s more than just a time for gifts and cake. It’s an opportunity to lift them in prayer and speak blessings over their life. Cousins often share a special bond—a blend of friendship, family, shared memories, and heartfelt moments that create an unbreakable connection. Whether you’ve grown up side-by-side or kept in touch from afar, celebrating your cousin’s birthday through prayer is a meaningful and deeply spiritual way to show love and support.
Prayer is powerful. It can break barriers, open doors, and invite God into every part of someone’s life. As your cousin steps into a new chapter, they may face joys, challenges, uncertainties, or dreams yet to be fulfilled. Through prayer, you can surround them with divine protection, speak peace into their soul, and declare success, health, and happiness in the year ahead. These prayers are not just words—they are spiritual seeds that can bear fruit in your cousin’s life, guiding them, encouraging them, and reminding them they are never alone.
This collection of 27 amazing birthday prayers is thoughtfully written to cover every aspect of your cousin’s journey. From prayers for protection and joy to prayers for wisdom, breakthrough, and inner peace, each one is grounded in Scripture and filled with love. These prayers can be used in birthday cards, text messages, family gatherings, or private moments with God. They are expressions of gratitude, hope, and faith tailored for this special occasion.
Whether your cousin is younger or older, near or far, male or female, these birthday prayers will help you bless them in a way that words alone cannot. Let each prayer serve as a light to guide them through the coming year, a shield to protect them, and a reminder that they are cherished not only by you but also by the Almighty God.
Take a moment to pause and pray for your cousin today. As you do, trust that your prayers will echo in the heavens and bring transformation, joy, and favor to their life.
27 Amazing Prayers For Cousin’s Birthday in 2025
1. A Prayer for Cousin’s Birthday Blessings
Dear Heavenly Father, on this special day marking my cousin’s birth, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude. Thank you for the gift of their life, for the joy and love they bring into our family. I pray that You pour out abundant blessings upon them this year. May Your favor rest upon them in every area of their life—health, relationships, career, and spiritual growth. Guide their steps and lead them to walk in Your perfect will.
Surround them with Your protection, and grant them wisdom beyond their years. Let your peace that surpasses all understanding guard their heart and mind through every season. May this birthday be the start of new opportunities, happiness, and divine breakthroughs. I trust that your plans for them are good and full of hope. Thank you for hearing my prayer. Amen.
Jeremiah 29:11
“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 a future and a hope.”
Prayer
Lord, I ask You to bless my cousin richly. Open doors that no man can shut and grant them success in every endeavor. Keep their heart close to You, and let their faith grow stronger every day. May joy and laughter fill their life, and may they always feel Your loving presence. Amen.
2. A Prayer for Health and Healing on Cousin’s Birthday
Dear Lord, I lift my cousin to You today, praying for their good health and healing where needed. You are the Great Physician, the source of life and restoration. I ask that you strengthen their body, renew their energy, and heal any sickness or weakness they may be facing. Protect them from all diseases and grant them vitality and strength to enjoy every moment of life. Let your healing hands rest upon them now and always. May their body be a temple of Your glory, functioning perfectly in Your divine design. I declare wellness, peace, and strength over their life today and always. Thank you, Lord, for your unfailing love and mercy. Amen.
Exodus 15:26
“I am the Lord who heals you.”
Prayer
Lord, please continue to watch over my cousin’s health. Fill them with strength and vitality, and grant them long life to fulfill Your purpose. Restore every part of their body and keep them safe from harm. Amen.
3. A Prayer for Wisdom and Guidance for My Cousin
Dear God, today I pray earnestly for my cousin’s wisdom and guidance as they journey through life. Illuminate their path with your light, that they may make decisions according to your will. Help them discern right from wrong and grant them clarity in moments of confusion. Surround them with godly counsel and bless them with understanding beyond their age. May Your Word be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path. Teach them to trust in You with all their heart, and lean not on their understanding. Lead them in paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake. I pray this birthday marks the beginning of greater insight and divine direction. Amen.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Prayer
Lord, grant my cousin wisdom to navigate every challenge and open doors of opportunity. Help them hear Your voice clearly and walk boldly in the plans You have for them. Amen.
4. A Prayer for Joy and Peace on Cousin’s Birthday
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer
Lord, fill my cousin’s life with joy and peace. Help them experience your presence daily, casting all worries aside. May they be a light of happiness to others. Amen.
5. A Prayer for Spiritual Growth and Strength
Dear Lord, as my cousin celebrates their birthday, I pray for their spiritual growth and strength. May they deepen their relationship with You and walk daily in Your truth. Strengthen their faith and help them grow in the knowledge of Your Word. Let Your Holy Spirit guide and empower them to live a life pleasing to You. When trials come, may their trust in You be unwavering. Use this new year of their life to mold them into a vessel of honor for Your kingdom. Teach them to love You more and serve others selflessly. I pray that their soul is nourished and their spirit renewed each day. Amen.
2 Peter 3:18
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Prayer
Lord, help my cousin grow closer to You every day. Let their faith be strong and their spirit resilient, ready to overcome any challenge. Bless them with wisdom and grace. Amen.
6. A Prayer for Financial Provision and Prosperity
Father God, I thank You for Your promise to supply all our needs. Today, I pray for my cousin’s financial provision and prosperity. Open the windows of heaven and pour out Your blessings abundantly in their life. Provide opportunities for growth, increase, and success in their work and endeavors. Help them manage their resources wisely and bless the work of their hands. May they experience Your favor in every financial decision and be free from lack. Teach them contentment and generosity, knowing You are the ultimate provider. Bless this new year with breakthroughs in their finances and peace in their stewardship. Amen.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer
Lord, bless my cousin with financial abundance and open doors for prosperity. Help them to trust You completely and to use their resources for Your glory. Amen.
7. A Prayer for Protection and Safety
Almighty God, I pray for my cousin’s protection and safety on their birthday and throughout the year. Surround them with Your angels and keep them safe from all harm and danger. Shield them from accidents, illness, and any form of evil. May your presence be a fortress around them, giving them peace and confidence wherever they go. Protect their mind, body, and spirit, and let no weapon formed against them prosper. I declare divine protection over their life and pray they walk securely in Your care. Thank you for your unfailing love and shield of protection. Amen.
Psalm 121:7-8
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Prayer
Lord, keep my cousin safe in every place they go. Cover them with Your mighty hand and protect them from all danger and evil. Amen.
8. A Prayer for Love and Relationships
Dear God, I pray for my cousin’s relationships—family, friends, and future love. Bless their connections with kindness, respect, and understanding. Help them build strong bonds rooted in your love. Remove any barriers that cause division and bring healing where there is brokenness. Guide them to people who will uplift, support, and encourage them. May your love be the foundation of every relationship in their life. Teach them to love others as You have loved us. May they experience deep and meaningful connections this year and beyond. Amen.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Prayer
Lord, bless my cousin with loving and supportive relationships. Help them be a source of love and encouragement to others, and receive the same in return. Amen.
9. A Prayer for Courage and Confidence
Heavenly Father, today I ask that You fill my cousin with courage and confidence. When challenges arise, may they stand firm in Your strength. Help them face life’s uncertainties boldly, knowing You are their refuge and strength. Remove any fear or doubt from their heart and replace it with unwavering faith. Empower them to pursue their dreams with confidence and to boldly proclaim Your goodness in every situation. Let this birthday mark the beginning of a courageous season filled with boldness and victory. Amen.
Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Prayer
Lord, strengthen my cousin with boldness and confidence. Help them overcome fears and step into the future. You have prepared with faith and courage. Amen.
10. A Prayer for Gratitude and Contentment
Gracious God, thank You for the gift of my cousin’s life. Today I pray that You fill their heart with gratitude and contentment. Help them appreciate the blessings they have and trust You fully for the future. Guard their heart against envy and discontentment, and teach them to find joy in all circumstances. May they learn to be thankful in every situation, knowing Your grace is sufficient. Bless them with a spirit of contentment and peace as they celebrate this new year of life. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer
Lord, cultivate in my cousin a heart of gratitude and contentment. May they always recognize Your goodness and walk in peace, regardless of their circumstances. Amen.
11. A Prayer for Dreams and Aspirations
Father, I lift my cousin’s dreams and aspirations on their birthday. I ask that you inspire and guide them as they pursue their passions. Give them clarity and direction in their goals and bless their efforts with success. Let their dreams align with your perfect will for their life. Provide the resources, opportunities, and people needed to help them achieve their purpose. When obstacles arise, give them perseverance and hope to press on. May this new year be filled with fulfilled dreams and divine breakthroughs. Amen.
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Prayer
Lord, guide my cousin in pursuing their dreams according to Your will. Grant them success, joy, and fulfillment as they walk in Your purpose. Amen.
12. A Prayer for Forgiveness and Healing
Merciful God, I pray for my cousin’s heart to be filled with forgiveness and healing. Heal any wounds from past hurts or offenses, and help them release any bitterness or resentment. Teach them to forgive as You have forgiven us, so they may live in freedom and peace. Restore their soul and renew their spirit. May Your grace bring restoration to broken relationships and inner peace to their heart. Let this birthday be a new beginning of emotional and spiritual healing. Amen.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Prayer
Lord, heal my cousin’s heart and help them forgive freely. Let your peace rule in their life and bring restoration to all areas needing healing. Amen.
13. A Prayer for Patience and Perseverance
Dear Lord, I pray for my cousin to be blessed with patience and perseverance. Life’s journey is not always easy, but I ask that you help them endure hardships with grace. Strengthen their spirit to keep going when things get tough. Teach them the value of waiting on Your perfect timing and trusting Your plan. May they be steadfast in faith and unshaken by delays or setbacks. Bless them with the courage to persevere until victory is won. Let this birthday be a reminder of your faithfulness through every season. Amen.
James 1:12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
Prayer
Lord, grant my cousin patience and perseverance in all things. Help them trust Your timing and remain strong through trials, knowing You are with them always. Amen.
14. A Prayer for Family Unity and Love
Heavenly Father, I pray for unity and love within my cousin’s family. May your peace reign in their home, and may all relationships be marked by understanding, respect, and affection. Heal any divisions or misunderstandings and bring reconciliation where needed. Help each family member to love unconditionally and support one another in all circumstances. Bless my cousin to be a peacemaker and a source of encouragement in their family. May this birthday bring renewed love and harmony to the family circle. Amen.
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Prayer
Lord, bless my cousin’s family with love and unity. Heal any wounds and help them live in peace and harmony, reflecting Your love daily. Amen.
15. A Prayer for Success and Achievement
Father God, I ask for Your blessing upon my cousin’s efforts and ambitions. May they experience success and achievement in their work, education, and personal goals. Grant them favor in the eyes of others and open doors that no one can close. Let their talents and gifts shine and be used for Your glory. When challenges come, empower them to overcome and rise higher. Bless their hard work and dedication with fruitful results and satisfaction. May this birthday mark the beginning of new accomplishments and victories. Amen.
Psalm 20:4
“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.”
Prayer
Lord, bless my cousin with success and fulfillment in all they pursue. Let their efforts be rewarded and their dreams realized according to Your will. Amen.
16. A Prayer for Peace of Mind and Rest
Dear God, I pray for my cousin’s peace of mind and restful spirit. In a world full of stress and worry, grant them calmness and serenity. Help them cast their anxieties upon You, knowing You care deeply. Let your peace guard their heart and mind, especially in times of uncertainty. Bless them with restful sleep and refreshing days. May they find refuge in Your presence and strength for each new day. Let this birthday be a fresh start filled with tranquility and joy. Amen.
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Prayer
Lord, fill my cousin’s mind with Your peace. Help them rest well and face each day renewed, free from worry and fear. Amen.
17. A Prayer for Gratitude for the Gift of Life
Heavenly Father, I thank You for the precious gift of my cousin’s life. Each day is a blessing, and today especially, I celebrate their existence. Thank you for every breath, every smile, and every moment shared. Help my cousin recognize the value of their life and live it fully for Your glory. May they embrace each day with joy and purpose. Teach them to cherish the gift you have given and use their life to impact others positively. Thank you for your love that sustains us all. Amen.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Prayer
Lord, thank You for my cousin’s life. Help them appreciate every moment and live with purpose and joy, reflecting Your goodness to the world. Amen.
18. A Prayer for New Opportunities and Breakthroughs
Father God, I pray that my cousin’s birthday opens the door to new opportunities and breakthroughs. Remove any obstacles that hinder their progress. Make a way where there seems to be no way. Bless their endeavors with success and divine favor. Guide them to opportunities that will elevate and bless them abundantly. May this new year bring fresh hope, new friends, and exciting possibilities. I trust your plans for their future are greater than they can imagine. Thank you for being their provider and guide. Amen.
Isaiah 43:19
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
Prayer
Lord, open doors of new opportunities for my cousin. Bless them with breakthroughs and divine connections that bring growth and favor. Amen.
19. A Prayer for Cousin’s Inner Peace and Calm
Dear Lord, I lift my cousin on their special day, asking for divine inner peace and serenity. In a world full of noise, stress, and confusion, let your stillness settle in their heart. Quiet every storm within them, and replace anxiety with your calm. May they know the peace that surpasses all understanding, resting in the assurance of Your control over every detail of their life.
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Lord, I claim this verse for my cousin today. May Your peace take over their mind and soul. Let them feel Your comforting presence and know You are near in every season of life. Amen.
Prayer
Gracious Father, I thank You for blessing my cousin with another year of life. As they celebrate today, I pray that You envelop them with a divine sense of peace. Calm every storm they face and silence every voice of doubt. Fill their spirit with assurance that You are always in control. When life becomes overwhelming, let them find refuge in You. May they walk in a calm that reflects Your presence, and may their heart rest secure in Your promises. Lord, be their anchor, their shield, and their everlasting peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
20. A Prayer for My Cousin’s Dreams to Be Fulfilled
Heavenly Father, thank You for the unique dreams and passions You’ve placed in my cousin’s heart. As they celebrate another birthday, I pray for divine alignment between their dreams and Your perfect will. Help them to pursue their goals with courage and unwavering faith. Open doors of opportunity and surround them with the right people and resources to succeed.
Jeremiah 29:11
“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.” Lord, I believe You have great plans for my cousin’s life. Bring clarity, provision, and purpose into their path. May they dream boldly and live purposefully, knowing You go before them. Amen.
Prayer
Lord, I celebrate the dreams You’ve planted deep within my cousin. I ask that you bring those dreams to fruition in ways only you can. Whether they are beginning a journey or waiting for a breakthrough, remind them that you are a faithful God. Grant them the patience to wait and the wisdom to act. May every dream be filtered through Your will, refined by Your Spirit, and completed by Your power. Let their journey inspire others and bring glory to Your name. Give them vision, strength, and endurance to chase what matters most. In Your holy name, Amen.
21. A Prayer for Cousins’ Strength During Difficult Times
Almighty God, I know life isn’t always easy. On this birthday, I pray You equip my cousin with unshakable strength for any battle ahead. When trials come, remind them they are not alone. Fill them with courage, resilience, and boldness to stand firm in faith. Strengthen their spirit and uplift their soul when they feel weak.
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Lord, uphold my cousin today and always. Be their source of strength in every challenge and their hope in every hardship. Amen.
Prayer
Father, I thank You for the strength that only You can provide. I ask that you clothe my cousin with spiritual armor and divine might. When they face trials, let Your Word be their weapon and Your Spirit their guide. Remind them that every battle they face is already under Your control. May they rise above every difficulty, trusting in Your unfailing support. Strengthen their heart, their faith, and their resolve. And let every moment of hardship become a testimony of Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
22. A Prayer for Cousin’s Protection and Guidance
Lord of Hosts, I ask for divine protection over my cousin on this birthday and in the days ahead. Keep them safe from harm, seen and unseen. Shield them from every trap of the enemy and misdirection. Guide their steps with wisdom and place a hedge of divine protection around them.
Psalm 121:7-8
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” I trust that You are the guardian of my cousin’s life. May Your protection be upon them day and night. Amen.
Prayer
Father, I commit my cousin’s safety into Your mighty hands. Go before them to lead, behind to protect, and beside to accompany them. In every decision, guide them with your wisdom and direction. If they veer off course, bring correction gently. May Your Word be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path. Protect them from danger, deceit, and despair. May Your angels camp around them and Your Spirit lead them into truth. I trust that with you, they are safe, secure, and victorious. In Your holy name, Amen.
23. A Prayer for Cousin’s Marital or Relationship Blessings
Lord, on this birthday, I lift my cousin’s relationships and ask for Your hand upon them. Whether they are single, dating, or married, I pray that Your love will reign supreme in their lives. Grant them patience, compassion, understanding, and godliness in every relationship they enter.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” Lord, may my cousin receive divine favor in their relationship journey. Let love be rooted in You, and let joy and peace flourish in every union. Amen.
Prayer
Father God, I thank You for my cousin’s heart and relationships. Pour out Your wisdom upon them in choosing a life partner and building healthy connections. Help them avoid heartbreak, manipulation, and ungodly unions. May they experience the beauty of love that mirrors Your love for us—selfless, sacrificial, and kind. Heal any past wounds and prepare them for a future of joy, commitment, and grace. Let your love be the foundation of every relationship you nurture. Bless their home, present, or future with peace and unity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
24. A Prayer for Cousin’s Spiritual Growth
Holy Spirit, I ask You to draw my cousin closer to You than ever before. On this birthday, ignite a fire in their soul to know You deeper, love You more, and walk in Your truth. Let their life be a reflection of Your glory and goodness.
2 Peter 3:18
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” Lord, may my cousin grow stronger in their faith, bolder in their walk, and richer in Your grace. Amen.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray that my cousin’s spiritual roots grow deep in You. Let their faith stand firm in every season. Teach them to seek Your presence daily, to treasure Your Word, and to depend fully on Your Spirit. May they not just hear about You, but know You intimately. Fill them with wisdom, truth, and revelation. Let their life bear fruit that honors You. Surround them with godly counsel and draw them into community with other believers. May this new year mark a turning point in their spiritual journey—a year of deeper surrender, greater obedience, and fuller joy in Christ. Amen.
25. A Prayer for Cousin’s Health and Wholeness
Jehovah Rapha, our Healer, I pray for my cousin’s physical, emotional, and mental health. May your healing hand be upon them this year and beyond. Restore every broken part of their being and renew their strength each day.
Jeremiah 30:17
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord.” Thank You, God, for Your healing power. May my cousin walk in divine wholeness from head to toe. Amen.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for being the God who heals. I lift my cousin’s body, mind, and spirit to You. Touch every cell, every thought, every emotion with your restoring power. If there is illness, bring healing. If there is fatigue, renew their strength. If there is worry, bring comfort. May their health be preserved and their joy be full. Let them wake up each day refreshed and filled with vigor. Remind them that they are fearfully and wonderfully made. I declare that this year will be filled with vitality, peace, and wellness in every form. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
26. A Prayer for Cousin’s Financial Breakthrough
Provider God, I bring my cousin’s financial needs before You. Let this birthday year be filled with new opportunities, divine favor, and supernatural provision. Remove every limitation and guide them in stewardship, diligence, and faith.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Thank You, Lord, for being the supplier of all our needs. I declare open doors and abundant blessings over my cousin’s finances. Amen.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being our faithful Provider. I ask that you bless my cousin’s finances abundantly this year. Break every cycle of lack and replace it with overflow. Provide new income streams, career elevation, and wise investment opportunities. Teach them to trust You and to be generous, knowing You supply all things. If there are debts, bring solutions. If there is uncertainty, bring wisdom. Let financial peace reign in their life. And may they never lack anything they need to fulfill their purpose. All glory to You, Jehovah Jireh. Amen.
27. A Prayer of Thanksgiving for My Cousin’s Life
Lord, I thank You above all for the life of my cousin. This birthday is a testimony of your goodness, mercy, and grace. I celebrate the person they are and all they’ve overcome. Thank you for every moment, every lesson, and every breath you’ve given them.
Psalm 118:24
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” I rejoice in the gift of my cousin’s life. May Your praises forever be on our lips as we celebrate this special day. Amen.
Prayer
Faithful God, thank You for another year of life for my cousin. I rejoice in the blessing they are to our family and to everyone they meet. May their life continue to shine as a testimony of Your faithfulness. Let gratitude fill their heart and joy overflow in every area of their life. I honor you for your protection, your provision, and your promises over them. May this birthday be filled with laughter, love, and beautiful memories. And may the years ahead bring greater blessings, greater peace, and deeper purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Conclusion
A cousin’s birthday is not just a date on the calendar—it’s a celebration of life, family, and divine purpose. It’s a chance to express not only your heartfelt wishes but also your deep spiritual care through the power of prayer. As we’ve explored in these 27 amazing birthday prayers, lifting your cousin in prayer on their special day is one of the most loving and impactful gifts you can offer.
Each prayer shared in this article was crafted to speak life, hope, and God’s promises into your cousin’s journey. Whether your cousin is walking in joy, struggling through trials, or searching for direction, your words of intercession can bring comfort, peace, healing, and encouragement. When you pray, you partner with Heaven to release divine blessings over their life—something far more enduring than any material present.
We serve a God who hears, who answers, and who delights in the unity of family. As you continue to cover your cousin in prayer, trust that God is already at work—ordering their steps, guarding their heart, opening doors, and providing for their every need. Let your prayers serve as a spiritual covering, a shield of love, and a light that leads them closer to their divine purpose.
May your cousin’s birthday be filled with not only laughter and celebration but also moments of reflection, gratitude, and connection to God. Let them feel seen, valued, and deeply loved—not only by you but also by their Creator. And as the days and years unfold, continue to uphold them in prayer, trusting that God’s plans for them are filled with hope and a bright future.
Thank you for choosing to bless your cousin through prayer. May these words continue to serve as a source of strength, encouragement, and faith, today and always.