I’ve had some struggles recently. Somehow I’ve let the weight of situations start to drag me down. It seems like at every turn something is just a little off where I think it should be. I’m sure anyone reading this can think of a season in life where things just seemed wrong. That’s where I am right now. It’s affect my writing, parenting, just about everything. I’ve been studying God’s Word but writing has not come easily.
So that’s where I’ve been.
In this midst of this lull I’ve found myself praying a lot of “gimme” prayers. You know what I’m talking about? I’ve been asking God for all the things I want. I want this, I want that. I was telling God what I needed. It’ seems silly to even write that, but that is where my prayers had been. All about me, what I want, and why God should give it to me.
I’ve been convicted today about my prayer life. Sure, I was praying but I was not praying in the Spirit. There are some things we can pray for, and know for certain that the answer will be “Yes”. Forgiveness for my sins. I’ve had to ask God to forgive my pride in thinking I know what He should do for me. if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.That is a promise. I can believe it and I know the answer is yes.
I’ve also been praying for the Spirit to guide me. God sent the Spirit to be with us, to guide and comfort us. He is here to help us, yet I squelched His leading with my own ideas. Asking the Spirit to fill and lead me in my prayer life.
The focus of my prayers ultimately has turned to wisdom. James tells us that If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.He does not hold back wisdom from those who seek it. It reminds me of Solomon. He asked for wisdom and God gave him the most wisdom of any person on Earth. Instead of asking for the things He thought would make him a happy king, He asked God for His wisdom. This wisdom from God led to a life that was full and blessed. Solomon made mistakes but the blessing of wisdom was of use for all of His life.
I hope I have not bored you with this lecture to myself. If you are going through a slump in your own life I hope this serves as motivation to get on your knees and pray in a way that you will be answered with a resounding “Yes” from the Lord.
Keri – Good reminder! I have also been convicted about my own prayer life through recent trials. Wisdom is at the top of my prayer list right now. I’m right there with ya!
Hey – just responded to your comment on my blog!
Thanks for the encouragement. I find myself having to be reminding of this over and over again. Good thing God is patient because I am a slow learner!