I am a praying woman. I pray continuously throughout the day. I pray in my quiet space, when requests are made known, on behalf of people I may pass while driving or in the stores. I pray for forgiveness and for God to take care of my need and the needs of others. I praise him for the gifts he sends my way. Prayer requires discipline and a heart for God. Am I praying as a Child of God??
When I pray for provision financially am I being financially responsible? Am I paying my debts, giving to others? When I work am I giving 110%, being honest, a person of integrity and working as though I am working for the Lord?
Am I praying for kindness, love and gentle hearts from others and yet not giving that very thing to the people I come in contact with?
Do I ask for forgiveness and yet I do not forgive others? Do I have compassion for others or am I a gossip and condemner even though I have perhaps walked the same road in my lifetime?
Am I boastful? I did that, I have this? I, I, I when I am to be thankful and remember that all good things come from the Lord and that the Glory is his, not mine.
Am I complaining but have a problem being around those that complain?
I know that as a Child of God he hears my prayers. Prayer takes discipline. We need to stop and give the Lord our time, our hearts. We should praise him for all the wonderful, colorful ribbons he drops on us. He already knows our every thought but what a joy it is for our Lord when we come to him in prayer! Daily, not only when life is full of trials and turmoil but when we are at peace and joyful also.
I was complaining yesterday and yet I have a problem listening to those who complain – HELLO! I stress over bills forgetting the provision God has given me! He is watching all these struggles to trust.
Do I say, “I will pray for you” and not do it? If you tell someone you will pray for them, pray immediately. Don’t tell someone you will communicate with God on his or her behalf and not follow through.
I need to be with him in quiet when I pray. I need to empty out the world around me. Praise him, ask for forgiveness and forgive others. Pray for his will in my life, to be delivered from evil and to be thankful that Jesus died for me – that I am His child and that he loves me, protects me and covers me. What comfort to know that I can go to Him anytime and he will listen to me and hold my hand. He will walk with me, protect me and never leave me. Make time for God – the answers come from him.
© 2011 Debbie I. Downs