So many times during my work week, when tasks start or already have piled up, house projects call, the unexpected phone calls come, etc. it seems that time alone with God is the thing that suffers most. This is the worst possible “sacrifice” of all for me! When prayer life is strong and regular, my focus on all things is better. My faith in God in all things is more secure and natural, hearing His voice comes easier.
This month on the “You Version” Bible app, I have been going through a 30 day devotional titled “Prayer, A Holy Occupation” by Oswald Chambers (usually an author way over my head) as part of my renewal. God has also reminded me through this that He is the Lord of numbers as well since I received the most powerful teachings during day 4, 8 and 12. (I think God loves to throw those types of things in to see if we pay attention)
Recap:
Day 4 – “So many of us limit our praying because we are not reckless in our confidence in God. In the eyes of those who do not know God, it is madness to trust Him, but when we pray in the Holy Spirit we begin to realize the resources of God, that He is our perfect heavenly Father and we are His Children. Reflection: What should “reckless belief” cause me to do today?
Day 8 – “It is at first difficult to learn a new and better way of breathing, consequently we are conscious of it for a time, but it is merely consciousness of what will by habit become an unconscious act. So in the better and new way of breathing spiritually in prayer, we shall be conscious of forming the habit, but it will soon pass into normal spiritual health” Reflection: Is prayer as natural to me as breathing? How can I make it less of a conscious act and more of a natural response to God in my life?
Day 12 – “Prayer is not to be used as the privilege of a spoiled child seeking ideal conditions in which to indulge spiritual habits without constraint. Prayer is the vita breath of Christians; not the thing that makes us alive, but the evidence we are alive.” Reflection: Do I pray so that I will be spiritually fit, or do I throw spiritual fits when I pray?