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Posts Tagged ‘Prayer’

Primed and Pumped

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Intimacy with God, Joy, Peace, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on January 29, 2026| 7 Comments »

Nick Saban

Their opponent on the football field that day carried the nickname Dawgs (the Georgia Bulldogs), but the Alabama Tide were considered the underdogs for the 2018 playoffs. Pregame, Coach Nick Saban for the Tide primed and pumped his team. 

“Focus on the things that have made us good all year,” he instructed, “which is discipline to execute, do your job, play with relentless effort and toughness.”*

Saban’s advice applies to many endeavors in life, even some that may surprise us—like prayer.

But isn’t it true we need discipline to execute and relentless effort and toughness to persevere in our pleas before God? What we may lack are motivation and passion.

In addition, Satan’s cohorts adeptly suggest excuses like:

  • “God is all-powerful; he’s in control of all things. What good are your pitiful prayers going to do?”
  • “You’ve prayed a long time for some things and nothing has happened. Your prayers are obviously ineffective.”
  • “You’re too busy to pray. Let the elderly saints with nothing to do take care of the praying.”

Like Saban who inspired his team, there are numerous spiritual coaches–pastors and authors–who would prime our prayer-lives with such reminders as:

  • “Time spent in prayer will yield more than that given to work. Prayer alone gives work its worth and its success. Prayer opens the way for God Himself to do His work in us and through us”—Andrew Murray (1828-1917).
  • “A praying man can never be very miserable, whatever his condition be, for he has the ear of God; the Spirit within to indite [encourage, inspire], a Friend in heaven to present, and God Himself to receive his desires as a Father”—William Bridge (1600-1670).
  • [Prayer] “turns ordinary mortals into men of power. It brings power. It brings fire. It brings rain. It brings life. It brings God”—Samuel Chadwick (1860-1932).

Still other coaches pump up our spirits for prayer with reminders of the blessings that result—blessings like:

HOPEFUL EXPECTATION

“Each time, before you intercede, be quiet first and worship God in his glory. Think of what he can do and how he delights to hear the prayers of his redeemed people. Think of your place and privilege in Christ, and expect great things!—Andrew Murray

HOLY ENERGY

“As the runner gains strength for the race by daily exercise, so for the great race of life we acquire energy by the hallowed labor of prayer”—Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 287.

TRUE PERSPECTIVE

“Prayer brings perspective, shows the big picture, gets you out of the weeds, reorients you to where you really are” (Timothy Keller, Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 130).

STRONG CONFIDENCE

“Prayer is the way to experience a powerful confidence that God is handling our lives well, that our bad things will turn out for the good, our good things cannot be taken from us, and the best is yet to come”—Timothy Keller, Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 73.

GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE

“Herbert Butterfield, the Oxford historian of modern history, is convinced that what Christians do in prayer is the most significant factor in the shaping of history—more significant than war and diplomacy, more significant than technology and art”—Eugene Peterson, Under the Unpredictable Plant,98.

DIVINE PURPOSE

“A praying saint performs far more havoc among the unseen forces of darkness than we have the slightest notion of”—Oswald Chambers (1874-1917).

INTIMATE CONNECTION WITH GOD

“Unceasing prayer can grow to be something we do not because of discipline but because of friendship. Desire. It’s where we’re headed if we’ll let him take us there”—Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 227.

DEEPEST JOY

“The key that unlocks the deepest joy of any life: secret prayer. Whispers with God”—Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 201.

INEXPLICABLE PEACE

“Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus”—The Apostle Paul, Philippians 4:6-7, GNT.

Nick Saban primed and pumped the Alabama Tide to a victory that day in 2018. They won, 26-23.

May the spiritual coaches quoted here today inspire us toward victory in prayer.  

* https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xDeK9EjSgfQ

Images credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com.

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A Prayer God Will Answer

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Maturity, Meditation, Obedience, Patience, Perseverance, Praise, Prayer, Suffering, tagged , , , , , , , , on January 15, 2026| 35 Comments »

Black coffee steamed, a fir-scented candle glowed as I began to journal a prayer from Colossians 1:9-12, in response to a Bible study prompt. What follows is the result, with recent additions and revisions.

Perhaps you’d like to pray along?

Thank you, Father, for including many exemplary prayers in the Bible. Moses showed us how to intercede for others, David, how to praise, and Daniel, how to pray using scripture (1).

You’ve also provided promises, assuring our prayers will be answered–for those who believe in you, seek to live your ways, and pray according to your will (2). 

With these assurances in mind, I appropriate for me Paul’s prayer for the Colossian Christians (1:9-12), desiring to experience the same realities in my life: knowledge of your will, obedience worthy of you, power to endure, and joyful gratitude for the promised inheritance in your kingdom.

I too pray to be filled with the knowledge of your will (v.9)—for small matters and major decisions alike. I know that fulfillment of your purpose will result in prosperity of soul (3).

I pray for spiritual wisdom and understanding (v. 9), “to recognize truth and discern reality from your point of view.” Many want to make truth relative to fit their world view apart from you. But “ignorance of spiritual realities is the constant source of error, instability, and sorrow” (4).

In contrast, knowledge of your divine truth brings helpful instruction, guidance, comfort, and more. For me to live by your truth is what you deserve, as my all-wise, loving Father. It also brings you honor and allows me to enjoy “life in all its fullness.” How lavish you are in your goodness, O Lord (6)! 

May my life “be the kind that brings credit to [your] grace” (7). One way to do that is to bear fruit (v. 10); to be your instrument of mercy to others with my words and actions. But to do that I need your power, Father, your enablement to carry out what you ask. 

I also need your power to persevere, equipping me to even triumph through trials. Eugene Peterson called it “glory-strength—strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy” (v. 11 MSG). Such an incredible gift!

I praise you for your supply of endurance. Millions of martyrs who’ve gone before have proved: no circumstance in life can ever defeat . . . no event can ever vanquish (8).

How many, Lord, were tortured and maimed, killed by lions in the Roman Colosseum, burned alive, or tied inside a burlap sack and thrown in a river to drown?

The Christian Martyrs’ Last Prayer by Jean-Leon Gerome, 1883

And yet as death drew near, they spoke and sang words of joy, because of their love for you and their confidence of heaven with you. You made it possible for them, you’ll make it possible for me to deal triumphantly with whatever life delivers.

You also provide patience to withstand unpleasant, even malicious people. You make it possible to set aside bitterness, despair, and exasperation and focus instead on the joyful conclusion ahead, just as Christ did.

Help me to do so, Father. May I remember to take encouragement from your promise that even out of evil, you bring good (9).

Your most mature saints exemplify “giving joyful thanks” (v. 12), even as they suffer. Amy Carmichael, missionary to India, offered a perfect example.

She was often in pain from neuralgia, sometimes bedridden for weeks at a time, yet served faithfully for fifty-five years, even writing thirty-five inspiring books.

Amy Carmichael

“Joy is not gush, ” she wrote. “Joy is not mere jolliness. Joy is perfect acquiescence ~ acceptance, rest ~ in God’s will, whatever comes.”

I know she’s right. 

Thank you, O God, for your willingness to bestow all these life-enhancing entities: knowledge of and compliance with your will that leads to satisfaction, strength and power to endure, and joy–especially in the glorious inheritance you’ve provided in your kingdom of light!

Help me do your bidding, Lord, joyfully leaving the outcome to you.

Notes:

  1. Exodus 32; Psalm 145 among many, Daniel 9.
  2. 1 Peter 3:12; 1 John 5:14-15.
  3. Psalm 40:8.
  4. 4. J. B. Phillips, The New Testament in Modern English, Colossians 1:9; Charles Spurgeon, http://www.preceptaustin.org.
  5. Psalm 119:14, 105, 52.
  6. John 10:10 GNT; Psalm 31:19.
  7. http://www.bereanbiblechurch.org.
  8. William Barclay, The Daily Study Bible, The Lettters to the Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians, 131.
  9. Hebrews 12:2; Romans 8:28; Genesis 50:15.

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The Weight of Uncertainty

Posted in Decision-Making, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Prayer, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , on June 5, 2025| 34 Comments »

The decision had been narrowed down to two schools for our granddaughter Emma*, a rising seventh-grader. Which would be the best choice for next year–Willow Hills or Sheridan? She’d taken the tests and been accepted by both; each offered its own set of benefits.

Our son Derek and daughter-in-law Heidi received input from others, but their comments only added to the list of pros and cons. No definitive answer came to light.

Emma spent a school day shadowing another student at Sheridan. “It was OK,” she reported afterward. “The teachers were nice.” But nothing she’d seen or experienced had convinced her, “This is the place I want to be!”

All through this process Derek, Heidi and Emma (as well as little sister Madison) had been praying God would make clear the best choice.  The deadline was nearing and the uncertainty felt like a heavy weight upon their minds and hearts.

No doubt you’ve faced similar decisions. It’s not a comfortable place to be.

So why does God allow such distress? Why don’t the answers to our prayers become evident immediately?

There are a number of reasons. Among them:

Uncertainty reveals the frailty of self-reliance.

We can’t see the big picture, and to be honest, very little in our lives is under our full control. Times of uncertainty press us into a place of trusting God [1].

We do well to affirm he’s our devoted heavenly Father. We can trust that what he’s lovingly planned is exactly what we’d choose for ourselves if we could see the entire storyline [2].

So our son and his family (Nana and Papa too!) waited and prayed. All we could do was trust our faithful God to reveal his good and wise plan in his good time.

Uncertainty provides a platform for God to display his grace, wisdom, and power.

These attributes and more become apparent as the answer unfolds and we see his lovingkindness in the plan he’s designed, the wisdom behind it, and the power he’s wielded to make events play out just so.

In the meantime, we must realize the uncertainty we face is only apparent uncertainty. Our future and our provision are certain to God. We’d also do well to remember that “uncertain seasons are often some of the most powerful moments we experience with God” [3]. 

Uncertainty allows us to experience God in fresh ways as we:

  • Sense his presence more profoundly during difficulty. Pat Chen calls it liquid love [4] — perfect imagery for the warm and comforting presence of our Heavenly Father.
  • See his unfailing love on display, even as we struggle—through the kindness of others, the beauty of creation, an encouraging scripture, and more.
  • Recognize his lavish goodness in the eventual, right-on-time provision.

The Sunday after the two acceptance letters arrived for Emma, our family just happened to sit in church in front of a couple with a son who attends Willow Hills.

Both the parents and he shared enthusiastically about the school. They also knew students at Sheridan and expressed concerns that our son and daughter-in-law hadn’t heard before.

The young man, several years older than Emma, spoke directly to her, giving her reasons why he’s loved Willow Hills.

Several days after that encounter, Emma and her dad visited Willow Hills for a tour. “Impressive!” he declared. “I like it!” she affirmed.

And so, just as we’d all prayed, God made the decision clear, and the weight lifted.

When have you faced a season of uncertainty? What helped you to triumph over the doubts and questions? Please share in the comment section below!

*All names changed, including the schools.

 

[1] https://serenityinsuffering.com/4-ways-to-trust-god-in-uncertainty/

[2] Katilyn Bouchillon, contributor to Take Heart, 210.

[3] Jon Bloom, Not by Sight, 57.

[4] Intimacy with the Beloved, 81-82.

Image credits: http://www.pexels.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com (3).

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A Personal Chapel

Posted in Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Refuge, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 20, 2025| 34 Comments »

“It isn’t necessary that we stay in church in order to remain in God’s presence,” wrote Brother Lawrence. “We can make our hearts personal chapels where we can enter anytime to talk to God privately” [1].

Isn’t that a glorious realization?

After all, “God could have . . . made his sanctuary in the farthest galaxies, in the majestic mountains, in the deep oceans, or in the vast Grand Canyon. But he chose to live in you and me” [2].

Being a visual learner causes me to wonder, What might an imaginary, personal chapel look like?

I see intricately-carved marble bathed in golden light, stained glass windows creating rainbows on the walls, and a soaring ceiling that fosters awe and wonder.

I also see a long, winding staircase within the castle of my heart. It leads upward to this turret-chapel, far away from the concerns and distractions of the day.

Along that staircase, images line the walls—reminders of God’s attentive care through the years. By the time I reach the chapel-door, my spirit is filled with gratitude and praise.

But the door is closed.

And the only action that will open it is repentance.

Sin is no small matter; it is cosmic treason—it is overthrowing the rule of the One to whom I owe everything [3].

But what do I say? King David’s prayer of repentance (Psalm 51) gives me words:

Lord God, I feel dirty with self-centeredness and pride as I approach your presence. I ask you to wash me, cleanse me, and purge me. Blot out my iniquities, I pray.

I praise you for your mercy and steadfast love that prompt you to abound with forgiveness. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.” [4].

And the door swings open.

There my Heavenly Father sits in an ornate chair, befitting the Almighty King. He beckons me to join him and perch on his footstool [5].

“I’m so glad you’ve come . Just sit and rest awhile. Allow my calming presence to envelop you.” And his arm gently rests on my shoulders.

“Now, what brings you here today?” he asks, while leaning back comfortably in his chair.

“Feelings of frustration,” I blurt. “Circumstances are not unfolding as I expected.”

“I know Child. Remember, I am over all and through all and in all [6]—even in these circumstances. Refresh your spirit with such affirmations of trust as:

“I also feel overwhelmed, Lord. The to-do list is long and time is short.” I turn my body to face him more squarely.  “Please help me prioritize and use my time wisely.”

“Of course!” he responds, with a pat on my back. “When you need wisdom, just ask. I am always ready to oblige” [7].

“Thank you, Father, for your reassurance to see me through [8]!

“And then, one more thing. I ask that you help me honor you in the tasks and encounters of this day.”

He smiles. “Now that is the kind of prayer I love to answer. Never forget that I am always with you; I am your reliable and perfect helper” [9].

I bask in his presence as God provides encouragement from his Word. The golden light that emanates from his presence, permeates my being [10].

I receive the inflowing of the Holy Spirit; he strengthens my will, thinking, and perceptions [11]. He grants me shalom—wholeness, contentment, and peace.

Now I’m ready to face the day, but very glad that anytime I can swoop up that staircase to my personal chapel and be ministered to by the Lord himself.

Praise God for his open invitation to come and his gracious benefits when we do!

 

[1] The Practice of the Presence of God, “Fourth Letter,” edited by Whitaker House, 1982.

[2] Beth Moore, A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place, 215.

[3] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 108.

[4] Based on Psalm 51:1-3, 7, 9-10, and a devotional by Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 144.

[5] Psalm 99:5

[6] Ephesians 4:6

[7] Based on James 1:5 NLT

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Psalm 118:7a

[10] 2 Corinthians 4:6

[11] Based on The Spiritual Life by Andrew Murray, Whitaker House, 1996, pp. 148, 155.

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Celebrating God through the Psalms

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , on January 16, 2025| 32 Comments »

One way to get better acquainted with God is to read through the psalms, watch for statements pertaining to him, and write them down.

That last step is important, as research has proven: writing (not typing) helps us learn and retain what we’ve written [1]. In this case it will also increase our appreciation of God’s glorious attributes and gracious acts on our behalf.

I chose to participate in this exercise during Advent, and became astonished by the number of statements about God, totaling over three hundred by the time I reached Psalm 150. I even skipped over those that I remembered listing previously.

Some psalms offer a number of statements about God, one after another. Psalm 23 includes nine, Psalm 103, sixteen, and Psalm 145, twenty.

Perhaps that explains why these psalms are among the favorites of many people. Subconsciously we crave reassurance of God’s power, wisdom, and goodness working on our behalf.

A lesser-known psalm perhaps, #71, offers seven encouraging descriptors of God:

He is our sovereign Lord (v. 5) over all things, even our blunders and regrets.

No matter my poor choices, God can redeem them. “Our mistakes can never thwart the sovereign will of God” [2].

How thankful I am for that!

He is the One who’s been my hope and confidence since my youth (v. 5).

I’ve been a Jesus-follower since age four. Never have I toyed with the idea of abandoning my faith in him, because I learned early on from the saints around me:

  • God is a good and loving Father
  • There is purpose in everything God does
  • He will bring me through whatever I might face
  • He is accomplishing a good and eternal work in my life [3]

I’d be foolish to turn my back on Someone so invested in my welfare.

God is splendorous (v. 8).

We could surely add more attributes to Brooks’ list. God provides so many wonderful, spiritual blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3)!

He is the One who performs marvelous, mighty, and righteous deeds (vs. 16-18).

In truth, “The whole world is a series of miracles, but we’re so used to them we call them ordinary things” [4].

May we rediscover the wonder of God’s deeds in evidence all around us, and respond with gratitude and praise.

He is the One who’s taught me since my youth (v. 17).

Over time I’ve come to cherish God’ Word. And even though I’ve spent many happy hours in study, its inspiration never grows old.

That is very good news.

God is the One whose righteousness reaches up to the heavens (v. 19).

That’s good news too, because “there is no perfect life, no perfect job, no perfect childhood, no perfect marriage, and no set of people who always do what we expect them to do.

“What we do have is a perfect God who is able to lead us through this imperfect life with unfailing strength, infallible wisdom, and infinite love”—Unknown.

Praise God for his attentive participation in our lives!

He is the One who’s done great things. Who is like You, God (v. 19)?

All of these descriptors, among the dozens of others proclaimed in the psalms, do make clear:

P.S. My list of God-descriptors has become the basis for personal worship. Each morning I slowly read and pray back to him one page of the collected statements. The practice renews wonder and gratitude for my marvelous Heavenly Father.

Perhaps you’d like to try it too?

[1] Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 89.

[2] Bev Rihtarchik, contributor to A Moment to Breathe, 151.

[3] Dr. Charles Stanley, Advancing through Adversity, 101.

[4] Hans Christian Andersen

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A Quiet Time Notebook

Posted in Bible Study, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on October 17, 2024| 42 Comments »

Some time ago I mentioned my quiet time notebook in response to one of Linda Stoll’s thoughtful essays on Substack.

(DO visit her at https://lindastoll.substack.com!)

This notebook provides a place to keep Bible study notes, scripture memory work, prayer-starters, and more. Then when I sit down each morning to spend time with God, I have what I need in one place.

Linda replied to my comment, “One of these days you’ll have to tell us more about that notebook!”

Well, today is the day! Here’s a brief explanation of its contents.

First, I’ve chosen looseleaf over spiral, allowing me the freedom to move things around, even remove pages and file them to make room for newer material.

The set-up of various sections allows me to organize by category, making it easier to find what I need.

Below you’ll find more details for each section, plus suggestions for others.

THE COVER

Here’s a chance to be creative! It might be as simple as a scripture coloring page (Many free ones are available online.), a favorite Bible verse or quote written with colorful markers, or an inspiring photograph. Make your notebook a pleasure to pull off the shelf.

PROMPTS FOR PRAISE

Many of us follow the pattern-for-prayer based on the acronym, A.C.T.S. A = Adoration, C = Confession, T = Thanksgiving, and S = Supplication.

To add freshness to my praise, I decided to focus on just one of God’s attributes each day, to avoid a repetitious list-prayer.

For each trait I’ve collected scriptures and quotes that help me express adoration for who our God is. That collection is the first section in my notebook.

CURRENT BIBLE STUDY

If I’m not using a workbook—a study by the likes of Jen Wilkin or Priscilla Shirer—I keep my notes together in this section.

When I finish journaling or verse-mapping through a book of the Bible (for example), I file these pages so, if needed, I can find them again.

However! Purging has been necessary now and then. Had I kept every study throughout the decades of my life, I’d probably need two or three file cabinets!

Also in this section: ideas for scripture meditation, to add variety to the ways I study. These too are available online. (One example: https://biblicalspirituality.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Meditation-Methods-Summary-17.pdf).

MEMORY WORK

I keep a typed copy of each chapter I’ve memorized, the many shorter passages, and individual verses. Reviewing a page or two each day helps to keep the passages fresh in my mind.

PRAYERS

Some people keep a prayer list in this section. But years ago I transitioned to a prayer box of 3 x 5s. The cards provide more room to write, as some requests go through stages toward fulfillment. It’s encouraging to see God at work through the process, as well as in the final outcome.

So this section of my notebook isn’t for requests, it’s for model prayers that have especially touched my heart. I can turn to these when the words won’t come.

An index helps me find an appropriate one. For example, when I need discernment I turn to a prayer of Thomas Merton, for hope, John D. Rayner, and for peace, Teresa of Avila.

FROM THE INTERNET

Occasionally I come across articles and blog posts worth keeping close at hand: how to’s, poetry, inspiration, information, and more. (I need to create an index for this section too!)

WORD OF THE YEAR

Sometimes I participate in this practice of prayerfully choosing a word to focus on for a year. That focus can include searching out related scriptures, writing them out, journaling meditative thoughts, and then praying through them.

The goal is to allow such focus to form our character and enhance our relationship with God.

OTHER POSSIBILITIES

There are those who include a reflection journal, gratitude journal, written out prayers, and/or other personalized pursuits. I prefer actual journals or separate notebooks for certain endeavors.

One example: my God Is Faithful journal, mentioned here now and then.

The first pages are starting to show their age!

Dozens of pages offer a record of God’s faithfulness to our family since 1983. At first this journal did reside in my quiet time notebook. But it soon grew and required a notebook of its own.

And now, gracious readers, I’d love to hear how you organize your quiet time materials. Please share in the comment section below!

All photos: Nancy Ruegg

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The Key to Everything

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on August 8, 2024| 33 Comments »

How would you fill in the blank of this statement?

_______________ is the key to everything we need to do and be in life.

Many of us might choose faith, obedience to God, or perseverance.

But according to Pastor/author Timothy Keller, the answer is prayer [1].

He would have us understand that “there is nothing more important . . . or richer, or more life-altering as prayer. There is absolutely nothing so great as prayer” [2].

However, Keller readily admits that prayer is hard. It’s a discipline to stay focused on Someone invisible. Not only do distractions cause interference, but doubts produce discouragement, and disappointments over prayers not answered (as we’d hoped) can breed demoralization.

It’s easy to put this key aside and “let God be God” without our participation.

Oh, what we miss.

Puritan preacher and writer John Bunyan would have us understand:

That is, through prayer, every cranny of our lives is impacted by his uplifting influence—our personalities, thoughts, choices, circumstances, and more. Through prayer he fills us with the totality of his excellencies and his empowering presence. 

Could anything be more sublime?

In addition, we can enjoy these blessings:

Prayer makes a sour heart sweet, a sad heart merry, a poor heart rich, a foolish heart wise, a timid heart courageous, a sick heart well, a blind heart full of vision, a cold heart ardent. For it draws down the great God into the little heart; it drives the hungry soul up to the plentitude of God; it brings together those two lovers, God and the soul.

— Mechthild of Madgeburg, a 13th century German woman, a mystic

Could anything be more satisfying?

To be honest though, there are days when my prayer time is more discipline than delight. I need an attitude-adjustment through review of such benefits as listed above, reminders of what prayer is supposed to be in the first place, and the positive outcomes of prayer.

What Prayer Is Supposed to Be

First, let’s address what prayer is not.

Prayer is meant to be an intimate, personal encounter with God himself, the King of the universe. We so easily forget what a precious gift this is, a privilege beyond comprehension.

In addition, prayer is meant to be a “link between his will and its accomplishment on earth. Amazing things happen, and we are given the privilege of being the channels of the Holy Spirit’s prayer” (Elisabeth Elliot).

Could anything provide greater honor?

Contemplation of such realities will surely renew our pleasure in prayer and produce joyful anticipation for what’s to come: amazement in our answered prayers.

The Impact of Prayer

Regardless of what the answers might be, prayer: 

  • fortifies human weakness with divine strength
  • transforms human irrationality into godly wisdom
  • gives to troubled minds the peace of God
  • unlocks the deepest joy
  • develops our friendship with God
  • augments our ability to discern the mind of God [3]

Those are life-transforming outcomes! And no doubt we could list more.

No wonder Timothy Keller named prayer as the key to everything.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Thank You, Father, for allowing us the privilege of prayer. What additional proof do we need of your marvelous loving kindness? Help us to use this gift wisely throughout this day [4].

 

[1] Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 18.

[2] Ibid, 32.

[3] The first three results from Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 287; points #4 & #5 from Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 201, 207; Point #6 from Oswald Chambers.

[4] Based on a prayer of Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 287.

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One Strategy to Change Your Life

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged , , , , , , , on May 9, 2024| 38 Comments »

How would you finish this statement?

Nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than _____________.

Some would suggest taking better care of ourselves, or setting goals that include a plan for completion, or training our minds to focus on the positive. And the argument could be made that all of these actions create beneficial influence in our lives.

But according to author Stormie Omartian, “nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than praise”[1]. Others would likely agree with her, having cited numerous benefits themselves:

  • Prayers of adoration calm any fear, lift the spirit, and fill us with indescribable joy [2].
  • Praising God reduces our cares, levels our anxieties, and multiplies our blessings [3].
  • Continual praise is what changes the emotions, lifts the darkness, offers hope, frees the mood, and blesses God so that evil is driven out. It changes everything [4].
  • When we choose to practice adoration anyway in the midst of whatever we are feeling, our words lift us over that barrier and into a deeper connectedness with God [5].

But how could simple words produce such life-changing results? Psalm 69:30 offers a clue:

“I will praise the name of God with a song;

I will magnify him with thanksgiving” (ESV).

To magnify God is to make larger our view of him and his attributes, which lessens our view of the problems we face. The more often we focus on God, the more our faith thrives, and that in turn leads to less worry and fretting.

For example, see if these statements don’t boost your confidence in God for what you’re facing right now:

  • Praise God he is all-sufficient, all-knowing, and all-powerful. He has everything under control (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 11:33-36; 1 John 3:20b).
  • Praise God he is forever faithful, always working out his overall plan, always fulfilling his purpose (Lamentations 3:22-23; Job 42:2). 
  • Praise God he is continually gracious and good, full of love and compassion (Psalm 145:8-9).

The longer we gaze at him, arrayed in such glorious attributes, the less insurmountable our problems become.

And with an unknown Puritan of old we too can affirm:

“When I think upon and converse with Thee, ten thousand delightful thoughts spring up, ten thousand sources of pleasure are unsealed, and ten thousand refreshing joys spread over my heart, crowding every moment with happiness” [6].

That is the power of praise.

But the enemy of our souls is well aware of this power. He’ll do everything he can to keep us from developing the habit of praise. What might help?

Habit-stacking. Have you heard of it? The practice involves adding a new habit to some action that’s already a fixed routine.

For example, we might add more praise to our days while making the bed in the morning, completing some household chores, commuting to and from work, walking from place to place, waiting for the microwave, chopping fruit or veggies.

What routines are established in your life? Which ones lend themselves to spending a few minutes praising God for who he is and what he’s done?

Another possibility for adding praise to our lives comes from C. S. Lewis: “Make every pleasure into a channel of adoration.” He suggested several ideas to get us started: a beautiful mountain valley, delicious food, a great book, or a piece of music [7].

And you know what happens as we praise God for these blessings?

One’s mind runs back up the sunbeam to the sun [8].

Isn’t that lovely imagery?  

And is there any better place for our mind to be?

[1] Values for Life, 160.

[2] Kristine Brown (https://www.ibelieve.com/christian-living/prayers-of-adoration-to-fill-your-heart-wonder.html).

[3] Suzanne Dale Ezell, Values for Life, 160.

[4] Arnold Prater, Bonding with God, 78.

[5] Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 151.

[6] From The Valley of Vision, Puritan prayers and devotions compiled by Arthur Bennett, 1975.

[7] Quoted by Timothy Keller in Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 197.

[8] C. S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer, 89-90.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com (2); http://www.canva.com; http://www.freeimageslive.co.uk; www,pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com.

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A New Way of Faith

Posted in Faith, God, God's Power, God's Promises, Praise, Prayer, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged , , , , , , on April 4, 2024| 44 Comments »

Several years ago I read these words written by a pastor: “When hard times come, say to yourself, ‘Now is the time to use my faith in a new way.’”

I had to wonder, What might that new way include? He didn’t say.

But while considering my own hard times I remembered a few new-to-me strategies God brought to my attention that did indeed strengthen my faith. 

First, he led me to a new way to read scripture, recording any thoughts, insights, or prayers in a notebook. Writing helps slow my thinking so I can absorb more of what God would have me understand.

A few questions, prayerfully considered, might help our pens begin to write. For example:

  • God, what do you want me to understand and embrace from this passage/verse?
  • How would you desire this insight to impact my attitudes, beliefs, and/or actions going forward?
  • What does this passage teach me about you, as God the Father, Son, and/or Holy Spirit? How might this knowledge impact my current frame of mind?

During one time of upheaval I wrote the following, based on Psalm 62:5.

You are my hope, O God. Your plan is to prosper me, to help me grow in faith and Christian maturity. My eternal hope in you can help keep this present difficulty in perspective. After all, when compared to eternity, any hardship here on earth is brief. Someday I’ll live forever with you and the problems I’ve faced will seem insignificant in the light of heaven!

God also introduced me to a new way to pray: spend less time rehashing the problem, and more time rejoicing with gratitude. It’s the kind of praying Paul encouraged (Philippians 4:6-7):

We can thank God for each of his attributes at work on our behalf: his wisdom, power, goodness and more. We can also thank him for graciously upholding us, surrounding us with encouraging family and friends, and allowing us to sense his presence more palpably.

Consider also the positive impact on mind and spirit if we pray with anticipation, affirming God will act to fulfill his highest purpose. If we thank God that it will be so before it is so—that’s faith!*

Such a prayer might be:

I praise you, O God, for your power that can fulfill grand purpose even through (name the situation.) I praise you for being a creative God who solves problems in amazing, miraculous ways.

I thank you for being an involved God who takes an active, loving role in the lives of his children. I thank you that you are faithful and trustworthy, that when we commit our way to you and trust in you, you will act (Psalm 37:5)!

God also led me to a new way to embrace the promises, by acquiescing to his plan for fulfilling them.

For example, when a beloved fellow believer is diagnosed with cancer, our prayer is for a complete restoration, of course. We might site the promise of Psalm 41:3:

And sometimes God’s answer is yes. Even the doctors are surprised how quickly the patient recovers. Sometimes God’s answer is wait, as the patient endures radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. And sometimes the answer is no.

But isn’t that complete healing as well as the patient is taken home to heaven where no sickness exists?

Life-experience and a growing relationship with God teach us:

It is then we turn to promises like these—promises we can count on no matter what:

  • He will guide us along the right paths (Proverbs 3:5-6)
  • He will provide peace of heart (John 16:33)
  • He will bring good out of every situation (Romans 8:28)
  • His grace will see us through (2 Corinthians 12:9)
  • He will provide everything we need (Philippians 4:19) 

These are among the promises to hold especially close.

And as we exercise such ways of faith presented above, they lead us to know God more, trust God more, and experience more of the spiritual blessings he longs to bestow.

And now, what new way of faith have you discovered that strengthens you during hard times? Please share in the Comments section below!

*Arnold Prater, Bonding with God, 81.

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Prayers of the Heart

Posted in Uncategorized, tagged , on February 15, 2024| 39 Comments »

For the last few weeks, we’ve seen hearts nearly everywhere we look–on TV, social media, billboards, and in stores. Merchandizers made sure: none of us lived unaware that yesterday was Valentine’s Day.

But there’s another, more obscure place, where you’ll see numerous hearts all year ‘round—more than 500 of them. It’s the word “heart” in scripture.

And God wants to be sure none of us live unaware: his heart brims with love for us, not because of who we are, but because of who he is [1].

Such statements assuring us of God’s love appear nearly 300 times in the Bible.

And many of us find our hearts responding in love for him, the One who provides abundant life now and eternal life with him in heaven yet to come [2].

But how do we demonstrate love to an invisible Being? A good place to begin is spending time with him, in his Word and in prayer.

Scripture includes a number of prayer-prompts related to our hearts—that is, our innermost being that includes the intellect, will, and emotions.

For example:

STRENGTHEN my heart, O God, to face whatever this day may bring. Keep me mindful that “your power reaches its peak at the lowest point of adversity” [3].

ATTUNE my heart to yours so that my desires match yours. Remind me: as I spend time delighting myself in you, the love-bond between us grows stronger, as well as my delight in your ways [4].

TRANFORM my heart by changing the way I think. May your truth clear away my confusion, doubts, and fears, to be replaced with your assurance, clarity, and peace [5].

INCLINE my heart toward the righteous and trustworthy instruction of your Word, so my decisions and choices flow out of your heart’s desire for me [6].

SEARCH my heart, O God, and reveal those sins that lurk in the corners—improper thoughts, negative attitudes, faulty motives—so that I might confess, repent and be right with you [7].

FILL my heart with your joy and peace. Then there’ll be no room for worry, discontentment, or frustration. Instead, I can overflow with hope because you, my sovereign Lord, are in control of all things [8].

IMPACT my heart, O God. Take away my stubborn heart and give me a new heart that desires above all to be faithful to you. Then I’ll find your favor surrounding me like a shield [9].

ENLIGHTEN my heart with understanding of who you are, with all your glorious attributes. May such understanding form a firm foundation of contentment, so no matter my circumstances I can rest in your goodness [10].

DIRECT my heart to heed your guidance each day [11]. Help me to see the people around me with your eyes of compassion, to listen with your ears of discernment, speak your words of wisdom, and work with your hands of mercy.

In the powerful name of Jesus, I pray all these things.  AMEN.

And what will be the result of such a prayer?

Our hearts will be SATISFIED as we allow God to:

S trengthen,

A ttune, and

T ransform our hearts,

I ncline,

S earch, and

F ill our hearts

I mpact,

E nlighten, and

D irect our hearts.

Praise God, he satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good [12]!

[1] 1 John 4:10, 19

[2] John 10:10; 3:16

[3] Psalm 73:26; 2 Corinthians 12:10; Charles Stanley, Advancing through Adversity, 76.

[4] Psalm 37:4-5; 119:24

[5] Romans 12:2 CEV

[6] Psalm 119:35-36, 138 ESV

[7] Psalm 139:23-24; Psalm 51:10

[8] Romans 15:13; Psalm 115:3

[9] Ezekiel 36:26 CEV; Psalm 5:12 HCSB

[10] Ephesians 1:18; Psalm 23

[11] Proverbs 23:19

[12] Psalm 107:9 NHEB

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