As we compete together today Lord, we pray that we will remain positive and support one another. Remind us that coming in first place is the least important type of winning. Non-believers often succeed on earth, only to fail in the only that really matters...in their relationship with You. We win when we properly prioritize the needs of our spirit, our family and horses ahead of our earthly goals and desires. We win when we look up into your eyes and can honestly proclaim "I did my best, Lord". God we pray that you lay your hand of protection upon the horses whos care you have entrusted to us. Let us realize the incredible blessing of having these marvelous creatures in our lives. Thank you for the opportunity of fellowship that they provide. Help us to be sensitive to their needs and aware of their physical and mental limitations. Remind us that they are not machines, but were created by you to be loved and cared for by us. Reveal to us their pain, confusion or soreness and help us to respond responsibly and in their best interest. Help us to take the time today to lay our hands upon their muscled shoulders and feel their gentle power... to look into their eyes and recognize their kind desire to please us....to run our hands down their fragile legs and realize how vulnerable they are to injury. Help us to forgive and understand them if they make a mistake today and remember that we have made many more than they have. If we see one of Your horses being mistreated, give us the courage to stand up for them in a way that they are not able to. Keep us from turning our heads and looking the other way. Lord, may we never leave the arena without praising our horses for his efforts with a loving stroke of his neck...and perhaps, a treat. Amen <3