Prayer | From the Inside Out

Posts Tagged ‘Prayer’

Secrets and Smiles

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, Intimacy with God, Joy, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged attentiveness to God, Blessing of Giving, God's Blessings, Prayer, Special moments with God on September 29, 2022| 46 Comments »

Over the years I’ve prayed for a number of people who didn’t even know I was praying—people like:

The family of a toddler with a brain tumor

a tollbooth worker struggling to make ends meet*

the young wife anxious to become a mother

No doubt you’ve also prayed in secret for strangers, unbeknownst to them.

Rarely do we receive updates concerning these people. But one day in heaven, we just may hear their miracle-stories. And won’t it be thrilling to know we played a part through the privilege of prayer?

Secret Prayers

Sara Hagerty in her book Unseen wrote about secret prayers, but has taken the practice to a whole new level—a level I aspire to. Sara silently prays for strangers she happens to see while going about her day:

the man in a wheelchair, that he might experience God’s strength
the woman with vacant eyes, that God would fill her needful heart
the man running to his gate at the airport, that he would run with God

The anonymity of such petitions gives Sara warm satisfaction, and no doubt puts a smile on her face.

Might God smile also? I think so.

It’s occurred to me that we experience other kinds of secrets with our Heavenly Father, and they too make us smile together with him.

Consider:

Secret Deeds

M. often wipes down the sink area in public restrooms and then washes her hands. It’s M.’s secret delight to provide this small blessing for the next person.

For years Norma frequently walked for exercise along a busy street, picking up refuse with a trash-grabber, then stuffing it into a grocery sack. After covering about a mile on each side, Norma would smile with satisfaction at the pristine street before turning the corner toward home.

My husband will often strike up a conversation with restaurant waiters or waitresses. If they’re not too busy he’ll share a bit about the difference God has made in our lives, how he’s provided for us in amazing ways. Then, before we leave, Steve puts a generous tip on the table. It makes us smile to imagine their looks of happy surprise at first glimpse of those bills. And we pray they see the goodness of God behind the gift and seek him for themselves.

Surely God smiles as well.

Secret Moments

One category would be those times when one of his wild creatures approaches in holy proximity:

The hummingbirds who hover close enough to touch as if to say, “Thank you for the flower buffet in the deck planter!”

The doe that stood at the bottom of the deck stairs one morning when I exited the kitchen door. I froze; she froze. We stared at one another for long moments before she gracefully sauntered into the trees.

The red admiral butterfly that rested on my knee one afternoon, allowing me to marvel at his colorations, the wingtip scallops and tiny stripes on his antennae.

I can’t help but smile in delight at God’s creativity, artistry, and workmanship—especially when observed up close and personal. And while reveling in such exceptional moments, I like to think he smiles too.

Secret Blessings

Our youngest granddaughter recently climbed into my lap and nestled for a minute or so—unusual for a child always on the go. You grandparents out there know the special pleasure of each snuggle!

Frequently over the years God has used song-lyrics to encourage me. On occasion I’m overcome by happy tears while experiencing his tender care through music.

My husband and I basked together under a dazzling full moon the night of my birthday. While gazing at its soft glow, I sensed afresh the soft glow of God’s love, joy, and peace in my spirit.

Moments like these cause smiles of gratitude as our Heavenly Father expresses his personalized goodness. And I’m convinced God smiles with us.

Finally, there’s one more pleasure not to be missed: Sharing secrets and smiles with our Lord fosters intimacy and draws us closer to him. Our challenge is not to miss them.

What secret and smile have you enjoyed recently with your Heavenly Father? Please share in the comment section below!

*You can read the full story at: https://nancyaruegg.com/2017/10/19/tollbooth-encounter/.

Photo credits: http://www.rawpixels.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org.

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How Strong Is Your Core?

Posted in Appreciation, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Hope, Joy, Meditation, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged Bible Meditation, Core Strength, God's Attributes, Gratitude, Joy, Prayer, Spiritual Strength on March 17, 2022| 24 Comments »

Fitness experts will tell you, strong core muscles of the mid-section greatly enhance your physical well-being, contributing to stability that prevents falls, minimization of strain that causes pain, as well as effective breathing that optimizes oxygen flow.

When core strength is absent, a person is likely to:

have difficulty getting up from a chair without leverage
struggle to bend down and tie his shoes
find himself slouching
lose his balance
experience back pain

But it’s never too late to reverse such ills. Those same fitness experts recommend exercises: crunches, planks, and bridges—to name a few—although just a brisk walk engages core muscles and contributes to strength.

Of course, even more important than our physical fitness is spiritual strength, which raises a new question:

How strong is your core–of the soul?

Just as we can identify symptoms of physical weakness, we can identify soul-weakness when challenge mires us in such thoughts as: Why me? This is so unfair. If God cared, this wouldn’t be happening.

However, it’s never too late to reverse such ills. Our spiritual Fitness Expert, God himself, has provided exercises to strengthen our souls, including:

Bible Meditation

More than just reading a passage, meditation includes taking to heart God’s Word and responding personally.

For example, how might you respond to Psalm 147:5, “Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit?”

Perhaps your response would be similar to my own.

I praise you, O God, for your omnipotent power. Nothing is impossible for you (Luke 18:27)! Just that knowledge alone can settle my anxious heart and foster sweet hope.

I praise you also for your unlimited understanding. You are a God of infinite wisdom and you generously offer to bestow wisdom to me–if I just ask (James 1:5).

Thank you for coming alongside, ever-ready to expend your power and wisdom for my good. You are a gracious God beyond what anyone could hope for!

Such an exercise develops the muscle of faith, contributes to stability of soul, and helps prevent falls into worry and fear.

Positive Prayer

Even the tone of my prayers can impact soul-strength. If I focus on the problem, the emotional pain is likely to remain:

Lord, I don’t know what we’re going to do. I keep trying various scenarios in my mind but there seems no way out of these circumstances. You’ve got to help us, although I don’t see how. What a mess!

On the other hand, if I focus on God’s attributes at work and his promises that apply, the strain of the situation diminishes:

“I praise and thank you, Father, that I have no reason to fear. You’ve given our family the promise that you’ll fight for us; all we have to do is stand firm and see your salvation (Exodus 14:13-14). YOU are our strength, providing the wherewithal to rectify this situation. YOU are our very present help in this time of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

As positivity is expressed in our prayers, the spiritual muscle of hope develops.

Gratitude & Joy

It stands to reason: if we focus on the problems surrounding us, discouragement will weaken our spirits.

But if we focus on all the good things flowing to us from God’s loving heart, we’ll find plenty to be joyful about. It’s just a matter of engaging our praise and gratitude muscles.

Most sets of the physical exercises I do each morning include twenty repetitions. I wonder if we could name twenty of God’s attributes, providing twenty reasons to be joyful in him?

Skim through the psalms with me, and let’s see what we find:

1. Watchfulness (1:6)

2. Righteousness (5:8)

3. Protection (5:11)

4. Encouragement (10:17)

5. Unfailing love (13:5)

6. Security (16:5)

7. Perfect ways (18:30)

8. Victorious power (20:6)

9. Goodness (25:8)

10. Uprightness (25:8)

11. Faithful ways (25:10)

12. Strength (28:8)

13. Splendorous holiness (29:2)

14. Justice (36:6)

15. Ever-present help (46:1)

16. Guidance (48:14)

17. Great compassion (51:1)

18. Power (62:11)

19. Forgiveness (65:3)

20. Sovereignty (71:16)

We did it—and long before reaching the end of Psalms!

Do you find the strain on your spirit relaxing, just in reviewing his surpassing greatness? Is renewed strength, stability, hope, and joy flowing into your soul?

Keep up those soul-core exercises!

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.piqsels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; pxhere.com.

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Three Lies We’re Too Quick to Believe

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged God's love for us, Personal Significance, Prayer, weeds on August 13, 2020| 28 Comments »

If you’ve ever weeded an early spring garden, you know how tricky it can be to sort seedlings from weedlings.

In the garden of the mind mentioned in the above poem, the weeds of lies can be particularly difficult to recognize—such lies as these:

1. God can’t possibly love me because I mess up all the time.

The problem is we think God sees us the same way critical people do—like the spinster great-aunt who looked down her nose at energetic children, like the teacher who frequently criticized, or the boss who was never satisfied.

That’s not God.

He knows we’re incapable of perfection and looks upon us with the compassion of a loving father. No matter the sin, God is always ready to forgive (1)–and forget–as we repent:

Take this to heart: “Our God has a big eraser!”–Bill Zeoli (2).

And we can use that big eraser of love, compassion, and forgiveness to erase Lie #1.

2. I am insignificant.

God would have us know: “There is no such thing as an insignificant person or an insignificant place or an insignificant position” (3).

Take a refresher course on your status:

The Prince of Peace died for you.
The King of glory is always thinking about you.
You have been adopted into his royal family.
You can enter his throne room whenever you like.
Your work has been specifically commissioned by the Sovereign Lord of the universe (4).

We run into trouble when we start comparing ourselves to others. Here’s what we need to affirm: “My significance is not based on what I do; it is based on Whose I am.”

3. It’s obvious my prayers don’t matter…

A. …because there’s been no answer.

Here’s a thought:

But there are a number of possibilities why prayers seem to go unanswered, including:

Unbeknownst to us, the answer has already come. A young man praying for a wife may already have met his future bride; he just doesn’t know it.
Sometimes God gives us what we need, not simply what we ask for. A young teen might pray that her family not have to move across state, but five years later, ends up earning a much-needed college scholarship from their new church.
We benefit from the spiritual discipline of asking, growing in faith, and persevering as we wait.

If our God is 100% good—and he is—then it follows:

B. …Almighty God doesn’t need me to accomplish his plans.

You’re right; God can do anything he pleases—without us.

But he instituted prayer as a way for us to come alongside him and participate in the good purposes he’s ordained. He allows us to share in the release of his power as we intercede for one another.

Lord Tennyson spoke of the power of prayer in his poem, Idylls of the King:

One day we’ll know the magnitude of the exact number. And won’t it be satisfying to have participated in God’s monumental work?

_______________________________________

Now that we’ve removed these three weed-lies from the gardens of our minds, we can enjoy to the fullest these flowers of God’s truth:

He remembers our sins no more.

We are precious in his eyes.

He always responds to our prayers (5).

Notes:

Psalm 103:13-14, 3, 10.
Quoted in Quote/Unquote, compiled by Lloyd Cory, Victor Press, 1977, 121.
Anne Graham Lotz, The Vision, of His Glory, Word Publishing, 1996, 77.
Isaiah 9:6; 1 John 4:9-10; Psalm 139:17; Ephesians 1:5; 1 Peter 3:12; Ephesians 2:10.
Isaiah 43:25; 43:4; Psalm 102:17.

Photo credits: http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.wikimedia.com.

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Heaven to Your Soul

Posted in Faith, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged doubt, Faith in God, Hebrews 11:1, Prayer, Worry on October 17, 2019| 16 Comments »

(from https://quotefancy.com)

Heaven to our souls.

Sounds glorious, doesn’t it? No stress, no pain, no enigmas.

But on any given day, doubt and worry crowd heaven out:

When will God answer our prayer? And what if it’s not the answer we’re hoping for?
Where is God? Why doesn’t he come to our rescue?
Did I miss his guidance?

Such questions have plagued us all at sometime or other. But watch the saints of great faith. You’ll see men and women who demonstrate considerable confidence and assurance with negligible doubt and worry.

Their great faith isn’t just happenstance. Observe closely and you’ll note various habits of those saints—habits we’d do well to adopt:

To begin, Ask God for more faith. Such an obvious step; so easy to overlook. Yet it’s a request God surely delights to fulfill (1).

Affirm the truths and promises of the Bible. Soak up its wisdom, examples, and encouragement (2)—daily.

Pray about everything to ward off the worry. Write down requests, leaving room to record answers. As visible evidence of God’s faithfulness increases, so will our faith in him.

Twenty years ago I switched from using a prayer list to writing requests on 3 x 5s. They offer more room to note progress and resolutions when they come. I’ve kept the cards as concrete proof of God’s faithfulness.

Here’s the 3″ stack of answered prayers so far. (Some cards contain multiple concerns and answers.):

Granted, God has not fulfilled every request to my preference. Instead, he did what was right, according to his infallible wisdom and far-reaching purpose (3)—and for that I’m most grateful.

Thank God—in advance—for his responses to prayer. “There is nothing that so fully solidifies faith as being so sure of the answer that you can thank God for it” (Rev. Charles Henry Parkhurst, 1842-1933).

In addition, praise God for his power at work, even though there’s no evidence yet (4).

Envision the outcome, perhaps something like this:

It breaks our hearts, Father, to see _______________ suffer because of health issues, a dysfunctional family, and financial pressures. We put our hope in you, our Great Physician, the Prince of Peace, and the Lord who Provides. We look forward to the day when physical limitations are removed, family members respond to your Spirit, and miraculous provision eases her financial burden. We praise you in advance, knowing you are already at work to bless ________________. Amen!

Surround yourself with other believers in pursuit of great faith. “Iron sharpens iron” (5); faith-seekers sharpen faith-seekers–with their support, challenge, and encouragement.

Adopt faith-building practices. For example, post encouraging scriptures around the house. One useful spot is the bathroom mirror. While face-washing and teeth-brushing, recite faith-enhancing words from the Bible.

Expect your faith to be tested. Just as our physical bodies require strenuous exercise for optimum health, so does our faith. It’s the difficulties of life that provide it.

“Faith untried is simply a promise and a possibility,” said Oswald Chambers. “Tried faith is pure gold.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

These seven habits will produce great faith, which in turn bring heaven of the soul.

And what might heaven of the soul include? Three elements make my short-list:

Peace

As we pour out our concerns in prayer, God pours in his peace—peace so profound it transcends all understanding (6).

Joy

Author and life coach Paul Sailhamer offers this definition of joy born out of great faith: “Joy is that deep settled confidence that God is in control of every area of my life.” Such joy provides rock-solid strength, not shaken by circumstances.

Optimism

People of great faith focus on the positive, affirm God will bring good out of every situation, and look forward with eager anticipation to see what God will do (7).

Imagine the interior of your soul filled with the ambiance of peace, the beauty of joy, and the golden light of optimism. Sound heavenly?

Great faith makes it happen.

What habits of faith-filled people have you noticed? Or, what habits do you personally practice that build confidence in God? Please share your observation/experience in the comment section below!

Notes:

Matthew 21:22
Romans 10:17
Romans 11:33-36
Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 27:17
Philippians 4:6-7
Philippians 4:8; Romans 8:28; Ephesians 3:20

Photo credits: http://www.quotefancy.com; http://www.maxpixel.net; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.jble.af.mil; http://www.maxpixel.net; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pxhere.com.

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Trusting God with Our Words

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged 1 John 5:14-15, Exodus 10:1-2, Exodus 4:11-12, Prayer, Witnessing for Christ on June 20, 2019| 11 Comments »

Emily* and I met at a meeting, and afterward the subject of the Bible came into the conversation—a conversation that went something like this:

“The Bible is just fairy tales,” she declared.

“That is a popular viewpoint,” I replied. “How did you come to that conclusion?”

“Well, it’s full of crazy, unbelievable stories,” Emily asserted passionately. “Noah and the ark, David and Goliath, not to mention Jesus and his supposed miracles. Who in their right mind would believe such stuff?”

I began to pray silently as our conversation continued. Lord, help me speak your words. May Emily reconsider her position and seek truth.

“I agree such events seem incredible,” I offered. “But I’ve come to believe the Biblical record is truth, backed up by decades of archaeological research, hundreds of ancient manuscripts—including the Dead Sea Scrolls, and dozens of scientific and medical corroborations. Also, numerous prophecies have been fulfilled with amazing accuracy. I can recommend some books written by experts if you’d like to know more.”

But Emily became defensive, insisting such proofs were either coincidental or made up by misled people determined to keep the fairy tales alive.

(The Ark Encounter at the Creation Museum, Petersburg, KY)

The conversation did not end well. Emily only became more vehement so I let her have the last word and bowed out as gracefully as I could. It felt like failure. Somehow in spite of my prayer, I must not have spoken God’s words for her.

Since that encounter, however, I’ve come to realize:

We can trust God with our words if we’re seeking his wisdom (James 1:5) and speaking in love (1 Corinthians 13:4).

Remember what God told Moses, upon commissioning the wilderness shepherd to be his voice to Pharaoh?

It would stand to reason that with God teaching him exactly what to say, Moses would eloquently convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites on the first encounter.

Instead, Moses had to confront Pharaoh numerous times. Even a constant barrage of plagues didn’t deter Pharaoh from refusing Moses’ request—until every firstborn son died in every Egyptian household, including Pharaoh’s. The hard-hearted ruler was brought low by grief, and finally let the Israelites go.

Does such a record indicate that God’s words through Moses failed repeatedly? NO. God had his reason for the delay:

Then the Lord said to Moses,

“Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart…

so that I may perform these signs of mine among them

that you may tell your children and grandchildren

how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians

and how I performed my signs among them,

and that you may know that I am the Lord.”

–Exodus 10:1-2 NIV

These verses offer me great comfort for my conversation with Emily and others. I can trust God with the words I prayerfully spoke to her that day. They may have caused one more chink in her wall of defense against Christianity, so that she will one day know “that [he] is the Lord” and accept Jesus as Savior.

Such prayers are the kind God especially loves to answer.

What could be closer to God’s heart than the eternal destiny of one of his children?

Perhaps Emily will contact me one day and say, “I remembered what you said about the Bible and it got me to thinking…”

So I continue to pray.

* * * * * * * * * *

As I submit myself to you, O God, may my words be characterized by your wisdom that gently persuades and winsome grace that draws people to you–all from a heart motivated by love. Then may your words echo in the minds of those who hear until doubt is transformed into faith.

*Name changed.

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.dailyverses.net(2).

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Moving the Wheel

Posted in Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged A.B. Simpson, Matthew 19:26, Prayer on March 14, 2019| 17 Comments »

“There is no wonder

more supernatural and divine

in the life of a believer

than the mystery and ministry of prayer…

the hand of the child

touching the arm of the Father

and moving the wheel of the universe.”

—A. B. Simpson

For those of you who may not know yet, Steve is in the hospital again. Another health crisis began Sunday evening with numbness in his right hand followed within minutes by the inability to speak. The diagnosis: a subdural hematoma. Thus far he’s endured six seizures, the last three causing great difficulty breathing. You can access the details at www.caringbridge.org, under the name, Steve Ruegg.

When he had his liver transplant in December, prayer supernaturally supported us, and with God “moved the wheel of the universe” for him, just as A. B. Simpson described years ago. Everyone was astonished at Steve’s rapid recovery.

Now we’re praising God again for all those participating in the mystery and ministry of prayer on Steve’s behalf. We’re also looking forward to more astonishment, as believers and our Father God move the wheel of the universe once more for Steve, because we know:

“With God,

all things are possible.”

–Matthew 19:26

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In the Face of Terrorism

Posted in Prayer, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged intercessory prayer, Prayer, prayer for terrorists, praying the scriptures on November 1, 2018| 17 Comments »

Last Saturday eleven more American citizens lost their lives to domestic terrorism. Six more were wounded. The chief federal prosecutor called the tragedy a “terrible and unspeakable act of hate.”

And we hate the evil forces that entice men (and sometimes women) to such unconscionable violence. Our hearts ache every time we hear of a new murderous attack, with more lives changed forever by horror, more pain and suffering, more lives lost.

How do we pray in the face of terrorism? Perhaps one of the most meaningful ways is to pray back to God the absolute truths of his Word. For example:

Dear Lord God,

We pray for your compassion, peace, presence, and power to pervade those suffering in the aftermath of such attacks as the one on Saturday. We pray for your protection over our towns and cities, schools and churches, community servants and law enforcement officers, friends and family. “Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure” (Psalm 7:9).

The question plagues us: Why, God? Why do men think they have the right to injure and destroy innocent lives? We are outraged by their cunning as they conspire to wreak destruction against those you cherish (Psalm 83:3). How dare they plot against their fellow human beings (Psalm 37:12)?

The evil imaginations of their minds know no limits (Psalm 73:7). And we cannot fathom such callousness that breeds unthinkable tragedy.

With David we want to pray:

“Repay them for their deeds and for their evil work; repay them for what their hands have done and bring back upon them what they deserve” (Psalm 28:4).

“Break the arm of the wicked and evil man; call him to account for his wickedness” (Psalm 10:15).

But your Son taught a different way—a way that disarms hatred from growing in our own spirits:

“You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44).

Thank you for reminding us that enemies often carry pain of their own.

And so, as best we know how, Heavenly Father, we pray your Word over those misguided individuals who inflict terror. Remove their hearts of stone set on evil ways, and give them tender, responsive hearts, anxious to follow your ways (Ezekiel 11:19-20).

We pray they would constantly be exposed to truth through what they see and hear—even in their dreams (Job 33:14-18).

We pray for enlightenment, that the lies of the deceiver would be exposed (John 8:44).

And we pray unmistakable God-incidents would draw them to you, and they would recognize the One behind the miracles–like Naaman of Old Testament times. When he was instantaneously healed of terminal leprosy, he said: “I now know beyond a shadow of a doubt that there is no God anywhere on earth other than the God of Israel” (2 Kings 5:15 MSG). May those who have perpetrated terror or are even now planning an attack, come to the same conclusion by the influence of your Spirit.

“Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord—that you alone are the Most High over all the earth” (Psalm 83:11), that your soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence (Psalm 11:5 ESV).

Last, we pray you thwart the efforts of those who plan vile destruction. Again, “Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure” (Psalm 7:9).

We do praise you, O God, that in spite of the apparent madness, you are in control (I Chronicles 29:11-12). Such comforting truth! In addition, no purpose of yours can be thwarted (Job 42:2). Such reassuring affirmation! And you will use for good what misguided men intend for evil (Genesis 50:20-21). Such splendorous hope!

In the powerful name of Jesus, we pray all of these things for your honor and glory, Amen!

(Art & photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.com (2); http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org.)

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Expect Great Things!

Posted in Faith, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged Ephesians 3:12, expectancy in prayer, Hebrews 4:16, intercessory prayer, Power of Prayer, Prayer, Proverbs 15:8 on September 21, 2017| 22 Comments »

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

We can EXPECT great things? That news gets my heart beating a little faster. How about you?

I also find Reverend Murray’s affirmations raising important questions–questions like:

How do I quiet myself?

My thoughts can jump from one thing to another until they’re on another continent from the subject of my prayer. What’s a scatterbrain like me to do?

I researched solutions for that problem a couple of years ago, and six suggestions became a blog post, “The Drift into Distractions.”

Since then I’ve encountered two more ways to still my mind:

1. One, shut the door.

Sounds a bit silly, I know. But that simple action can alter my mindset, reminding me that unimportant concerns and the ever-present to-do list can wait until later—outside the door.

2. Two, breathe a breath prayer.

With a slow, deep inhale I might whisper, “My hope is in You, God.” On the exhale I can conclude with, “I am trusting you.”

A few repetitions help focus my mind on the Almighty One to whom I pray and the anticipation of serious, life-changing intercession.

How do I “worship God in his glory?”

First I need to understand that God’s glory includes all his splendorous attributes: his creativity and power, goodness and mercy, wisdom and love and more. Taking a moment to remember who my God is, prepares my heart to pray with confidence.

One such prayer might be:

O Lord, the magnificence of your Personhood renders me speechless with wonder. You are all-knowing, all-wise, and all-powerful.

You perfectly attend to the immense totality of your creation, and with compassionate love you care for your children.

“Your splendor is above the earth and heavens” (Psalm 148:13b)!

Why is it beneficial to think about what God can do?

Reviewing God’s miracles and wonderful works of the past is like a warm-up before working out. It prepares our faith muscles to pray with conviction and endurance.

Does God really delight to hear our prayers?

Oh, yes!

“The Lord…delights in the prayers of his people” (Proverbs 15:8b NLT). Can’t get much clearer than that.

Why should I consider “my place and privilege in Christ” before praying?

First, I am in Christ because I accepted his offer to pay for all my wrong thoughts, attitudes and actions—a supreme, sacrificial payment he made on the cross. God the Father made that exchange possible so I might have the gift of eternal life with him in heaven.

Second, Jesus’ painful sacrifice also provided a place and privilege in God’s family, with access to his presence anytime, anywhere. (Ephesians 3:12).

Prayer is a precious privilege; I’d be foolish to ignore it.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Lord Jesus my Advocate. Because of you I can approach our Father, the King of the universe, and receive his mercy and grace to help in my time of need and that of others.

I praise you for all your scripture promises assuring us that high expectations in you are not misplaced.

Help me to wait in patient confidence upon you, the only One who can accomplish great things—even above our expectations.

(Hebrews 4:16; I John 5:14-15; Ephesians 3:20)

(Art & photo credits: http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.scripture-images.com; http://www.dailyverses.net.)

What helps you expect great things as you pray? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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There’s an APP for That

Posted in Appreciation, Encouragement, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, tagged 2 Corinthians 10:5, Gratitude, Gratitude improves attitude, Positive Thinking, Power of Prayer, Praise and Worship, Praise for God's Attributes, Praise to God, Prayer, Psalm 34:1, Psalm 84:11-12, Psalm 92:1, Psalm 92:4 on April 27, 2017| 13 Comments »

Each spring, as the outdoor temperatures finally climb to comfortable levels, we can hardly resist opening wide the windows to allow fresh breezes and full sunshine into our homes.

We breathe deep the pure air and revel in the bright light–until we notice the smudges, dirt, and grime, undetected during the dim days of winter. Suddenly we’re overtaken by the urge to polish the windows, Swiffer baseboards, reorganize closets, and capture dust bunnies under the beds. We embark on spring cleaning, full sweep ahead!

Any concerns of how to clean in the fastest, easiest ways can be researched online. And even the APP Store can help. BrightNest offers organizing and cleaning tips, a personalized cleaning schedule, and reminders. Chore Monster will get the kids to help (so they say).

I can’t speak for you, but there’s another area in my life that needs cleaning. In addition to the dusting, scrubbing, and polishing throughout our home, a little spring-cleaning of my mind will be beneficial, to remove any melancholy, anxiety, fear, and other muck from my thoughts. There’s an A.P.P. for that, too:

A is for APPRECIATION. Nothing wipes away the grime of doldrums like gratitude, because gratitude leads to joy.

“What a beautiful thing, God, to give thanks,

to sing an anthem to you, the High God!

You make me so happy, God.

I saw your work and I shouted for joy.

How magnificent your work, God!”

–Psalm 92:1, 4 MSG

P is for PRAYER. Sweep up the swirling dust bunnies of worry with statements of trust, based on God’s reliable promises:

He will never leave us to struggle through trouble on our own (Deuteronomy 31:6).
He will always provide what we need (Matthew 6:25-27).
He is a God of infinite power and might, ruling over all people and all circumstances (Psalm 103:19)
He is a God of goodness and righteousness, love and compassion, grace and mercy (Psalm 145:7-9).

P is also for PRAISE. Polish every day with worship, commending God for who he is and what he has done.

“To worship is to…purge the imagination by the beauty of God.”

–William Temple (1881-1944), Bishop of the Church of England

Notice this A.P.P. of Appreciation, Prayer, and Praise, is all about words that don’t even have to be spoken out loud. Is it really possible that mere words can cleanse away hurtful or disturbing thoughts?

Yes! Words are powerful (Proverbs 18:21). Even self-talk wields great influence, because thoughts produce emotions, emotions produce attitudes, and attitudes produce behavior.

For example:

Thoughts of Appreciation, Prayer, and Praise create a clean, positive atmosphere in our spirits.
That atmosphere allows the emotions of peace, joy, and contentment to shine.
From a contented heart come the positive behaviors of cheerfulness, perseverance, faith, and strength—to name a few.

But just as some spring-cleaning tasks require extra effort, ridding our minds of negative self-talk often requires extra effort as well. Our thoughts too easily get mired in complaining, anxiety, and fear.

How do we redirect our thinking? We take our negative thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), trapping them like dust flecks in a Swiffer! Then we use our A.P.P (as described above) to add the luster of positivity.

There’s nothing like a good spring-cleaning to increase the pleasure we experience in our homes. And there’s nothing like a good cleansing of the mind to bring supreme pleasure to life.

“The Lord is a sun and shield;

The Lord bestows favor and honor;

No good thing does he withhold

From those whose walk is blameless.

O Lord Almighty,

Blessed is the man who trusts in you.”

–Psalm 84:11-12 NIV

(Art & photo credits: www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.youtube.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.ourdailyblossom.com; http://www.pinterest (2).

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An Advent Adventure

Posted in Appreciation, Christmas, Hope, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, tagged Christmas, Gratitude, Hope, Prayer, Romans 12:2 on November 28, 2016| 10 Comments »

We’re off! The race to Christmas has begun.

The next twenty-six days will include shopping, wrapping, sending, writing (the Christmas cards), decorating, cleaning, baking, attending, final rehearsing and performing. Did I leave out anything?

No doubt some of you are far down the track. Your house is already decorated, the cards are nearly finished, the cookies are baked and tucked in the freezer. You started preparations weeks ago.

I am not among you—never have been. What would Christmas be without a little hustle and bustle to get the adrenalin flowing? Except I almost always become overwhelmed, which leads to frazzled nerves.

This year I want to maintain (or recapture as needed) an Advent perspective of tranquil expectation and worshipful celebration—even when the schedule and the to-do list get a little crazy.

How? The following three ways might be a good place to begin:

1. Gratitude.

Gratitude will prepare the way—the way to salvation from discontent and agitation, the way to the presence of God.

(“He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me

and prepares the way

so that I may show him

the salvation of God.”

–Psalm 50:23)

Gratitude renews my mind and spirit as I remember: “The things [I] take for granted, someone else is praying for”–things like:

Colorful Christmas cards in the mailbox
An ample supply of sugar, flour, and butter for cookies
A Christmas tree filled with treasured, memory-laden ornaments
Loving family gathered to revel in each other’s company and hear the story of Jesus’ birth once again
Presents aplenty under that tree, to express our love

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgiving, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – William Arthur Ward (1921-1994).

What better time than Advent to be more thankful, to experience more joy, to take note of our many blessings in the ordinary? M-m-m. ‘Think I’ll reflect on that question in my journal during these days leading up to Christmas.

2. Prayer.

If someone asked me, “Is there a scripture about the impact of prayer on a person’s emotional state?” I’d steer them to Philippians 4:6-7.

“Do not be anxious about anything,

but in everything, by prayer and petition,

with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God,

Which transcends all understanding,

Will guard your hearts and your minds

In Christ Jesus.”

How easy it is to steer others in the right direction, but not take that route myself.

So these reminders are for me:

Be anxious about nothing – including the long task-list that requires completion by Christmas.

Pray with a grateful heart about everything that needs to be done – including what to say on the Christmas cards, what gifts to give, what is needful to accomplish and what is just my OCD in over-drive.

Pray for godly perspective. The result will be as he has promised: peace that transcends understanding.

To keep mindful, I’ve put Philippians 4:6-7 on the bathroom mirror.

3. Hope.

Yesterday, the first Sunday of Advent, we focused on the word, wait –an action often accompanied by impatience.

But in the ancient language of the Bible, Hebrew, the word wait is the same as the word for hope. How appropriate—hopeful waiting—waiting that includes positive expectation, confident assurance, and absolute conviction, because our God is the One and only God of hope.

And because of him we have confident assurance of:

Strength (Psalm 31:24)
Blessing (Jeremiah 17:7)
Joy and peace (Romans 15:13)
Eternal life (Titus 1:2)

What a glorious list. And that’s just the beginning.

If I focus on my God of hope and all his benefits, my attitude will be transformed (Romans 12:2). If I turn my face to the Son, the shadows will fall behind me.*

Too often in the past, my attitude has turned the season of Advent into an adversary to be beaten.

This year I want Advent to be an adventure of gratitude, prayer, and hope.

*Based on a Maori proverb

(Art & photo credits: www.flickr.com (2); http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.youtube.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.pixabay.com.)

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An Advent Adventure

Nancy Ruegg

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