Category: Prayer

Forging a New Path

Rolling my bike to a stop, I surveyed the trail. Just ahead of me, a large tree had fallen across it, blocking my way forward. The thick trunk and spiny branches would have been awkward to scramble over with my bike. The best option seemed to be going around it, which meant trudging through knee-high weeds and over rocky ground to forge a new path. 

A few weeks later, the tree was still stretched across the main trail, but the long weeds I’d pushed through were now trodden down. Clearly, others had made the same choice to navigate around the obstacle in the road. Each time I took the trail in subsequent months, I noticed how the new route began replacing the old one. Matted grass gave way to bare patches of dirt, rocks were kicked aside and, over time, the rough trail was smoothed by a multitude of feet and bikes. Within months, the path around the fallen tree had become the main route. It had just taken repeated and consistent use over time.

I imagined this trail as I began thinking of my hopes for the new year: I want to build some new paths—not on dirt trails, but in my mind. I’ve been learning there is science to support this goal, it’s not just wishful thinking on my part. In her book Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen explains the work of Dr. Dan Siegel, a professor of clinical psychiatry. “’Where attention goes,’ he wrote, ‘neural firing flows and neural connection grows…Patterns you thought were fixed are actually things that with mental effort can indeed be changed…We are not passive in all this activity of mind and awareness.’ What we think about, our brains become. What we fixate on is neurologically who we will be.” (p.42) So, the more we think certain thoughts, the wider those paths become and the more we’re inclined to travel on them mentally.  

Allen goes on to explain, “Good things happen when we train our attention on that which is beautiful, on that which is authentic and compelling and good. What’s more, beyond the obvious emotional experience, those good things from the hand of God can point us to the One who creates beauty, who is beautiful. Cynicism puts our minds on things of this earth, and we lose hope. Beauty points our gaze toward the heavens and reminds us of hope.” (p.135)

I’m not proud to admit that many of my neural pathways take me to negative places. It requires intentional effort for me to look on the positive side, to assume the best, and to be confident there will be a favorable outcome. My default modes of thinking tend to be critical, negative, and cynical. But I hope to change that this year.

Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians fuel my desire for a new web of trails in my mind: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV) I want to re-route my thoughts onto more positive paths that honor Jesus and bring life to myself and others. And when I venture back down negative roads, I want the Holy Spirit to stop me before I’ve traveled too far. That way, I’ll develop a reflex of asking for God’s help to renew my mind so I can continue establishing new routes. Paul’s words to the Romans describe the process of shifting from old and unhealthy thought patterns to new ones: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”(Romans 12:2, NIV)

This year, I’m focusing on developing mental paths that are positive and hopeful. I want to assume the best and see the good from the start rather than having to talk myself into it. This can only be done through the power of the Holy Spirit and the consistency of prayer.

Maybe, like me, you’re ready to step into a new day and forge a fresh path in the year ahead. The band For King and Country has an inspiring song called “Burn the Ships” that invites us to walk away from the negative things of our pasts and start new. Singer/songwriter Luke Smallbone explains, “The analogy of burning the ships came to me: the story of the sailors not wanting to explore the new world, wanting the comforts of their boats. Their leader calls them out and says, ‘We’ve got to burn the ships. This is a new world.’”

As you listen, ask God what ships you need to burn today so you can travel down new paths He has planned for you.

Jennie Allen, Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts, Waterbrook, 2020.

Luke Smallbone quoted from: ccmmagazine.com

The Best Request

As a kid, I loved listening to records (yes, the vinyl kind). One of my favorites was called “Tales from the Arabian Nights” and had a storyteller that regaled listeners with accounts of exotic people, places, and events. The one I loved most was the story of Aladdin and the magic lamp. Sometimes I fantasized about how I would answer if a genie appeared to grant my most extravagant wishes. 

Of course, those stories were pure fiction. However, there is one character in the Bible who was given the opportunity to make any request he wanted from the source of all power and authority: God Almighty. Maybe you’ve already figured out I’m talking about the story of Solomon, King David’s son and successor to the throne of Israel. Not long after being crowned the new king, Solomon went to offer sacrifices to the Lord and had an unforgettable encounter with Him. Here’s how it starts:

“At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, ‘Ask for whatever you want me to give you.’

Solomon answered, ‘You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day.’” (1 Kings 3:5-6, NIV)

Did you notice what Solomon says before making his request? He starts by recognizing the Lord’s faithfulness to his father, David, and acknowledging that the Lord is responsible for his privileged position. Despite being king, he offers humble recognition that he is merely the recipient of God’s goodness and confirms the Lord’s authority over his life.

Stop for a moment and reflect on your typical conversations with the God. Is it common for you to acknowledge Him for the ways He has provided for you and given you privilege and power? If you don’t think you have privilege or power, here are some things to consider: the family that raised you and what benefits came from it, the country where you were born and the privileges that come with being a citizen, your education and intellect, your material/ financial resources, your relationships, your children/ grandchildren, your skills, gifts and abilities, your connections, etc. Many times, we’re so focused on what we want or need from God that we forget to notice what He’s already given us. Yet Solomon stops to acknowledge the Lord first, even when he’s offered anything he wants. Perhaps we’d be wise to follow his lead in our prayers.

Let’s examine the next portion of Solomon’s interaction with God before looking at the request he makes: “Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.”(1 Kings 3:7, NIV)

Note how Solomon accepts his humble position in relation to the Lord, describing himself as “only a little child.” He recognizes that as king, he is God’s servant. He understands the enormous responsibility that accompanies his privileged position. Considering this, evaluate how much you include the Lord in carrying out your regular responsibilities. Do you acknowledge God’s sovereignty? Do you invite His guidance and involvement in all areas of your life– including less “spiritual” places like work, school, volunteer positions, and social circles? Be honest. Are there areas that you’re afraid or unwilling to surrender? Will you risk humbling yourself to let Him be Lord of every part of your life?

Finally, we come to Solomon’s request:

“Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?’” (1 Kings 3:8-9, NIV)

In one word, what Solomon wanted most was wisdom. And here is the result: “The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, ‘Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.” (1 Kings 3:10-14, NIV)

Solomon recognized his need for God’s wisdom in governing the people of Israel, and this pleased the Lord. He not only granted Solomon’s request, but blessed him in many other ways as well. Maybe you’re thinking this story isn’t applicable to you. After all, most of us will never rule a kingdom. However, the New Testament promises we, too, can ask God for wisdom at any time for any circumstance–even ones that don’t seem overtly spiritual in nature. The book of James explains: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the seas, blown and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:5-6, NIV ’84)

Is it time to change up your prayers a bit? Instead of telling God the specifics of how you’d like Him to deal with a situation, start by praising Him for being Lord of your life. Then ask Him to equip you with the wisdom you need and leave the rest up to Him. Let Him surprise you with the blessings that flow from there.

Casting Crowns song “God of All My Days” beautifully captures this kind of prayer. Why not listen now and let the words speak for you?

Lamp Image by Vicki Nunn from Pixabay.com

A Solid Foundation

The next time you’re feeling unsteady or overwhelmed, use David’s words in Psalm 62 to regain your footing.

Looking at the realtor’s glossy advertisement, the house seemed to be brimming with potential. It sat on a quiet, tree lined street and was close to good schools for the kids we hoped to have one day. The floorplan was versatile and the large backyard had a panoramic view. But it was the price that initially drew us in. The numbers on the advertisement were far lower than any we’d seen in the area. It seemed too good to be true.

Touring the property with a realtor, my husband and I soon discovered the reason for the low price: the house had a cracked foundation. A large gash in the concrete slab was widening incrementally over time. The garage was shifting in the opposite direction from the house and would eventually pull away from it altogether. Assuring us that it was an “easy fix,” the realtor claimed the money we were saving with the low price would more than cover the repair job. With a bit more research, we learned that contractors hadn’t been able to determine the extent of the problem. They didn’t know if the house would have to be lifted so the deteriorating foundation could be replaced, or if the crack could simply be shored up. This meant estimates of the cost and the time it would take to fix it were rough guesses at best.

The more we thought about it, the less enthused we became. Buying a home on a faulty foundation just seemed like a bad idea. Wary of all the unknowns, we decided to pass on the opportunity and to keep looking. At that point, we learned that when something seems “too good to be true,” it probably is.

I’ve thought a lot about that house and what a metaphor it’s been for my adult life. With each decision my husband and I have made, our goal has been to build a solid foundation in both the physical and spiritual worlds. One of my favorite Psalms written by David captures this idea well: “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God, he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” (Psalm 62:5-8, NIV)

I’ve returned to this Psalm again and again over the years. I’ve clung to its truth during times of sorrow and stress, especially when family members or close friends have had serious health issues. It’s also my “go to” Psalm when I’m feeling threatened and unsettled by unwanted change or overwhelming circumstances. 

Over the last few posts I’ve been exploring different prayers from Scripture to see what we can learn from them. Psalm 62, however, is more of a pep talk than an actual prayer. It gives the key ingredients we can focus on when hard situations throw us off kilter. It reminds us where our attention needs to be so we won’t be shaken to the core.  In a nutshell, it builds a framework to remind us how to engage God when we’re feeling off balance.

-Find Rest in Him: So often when we’re on unsteady ground we feel emotionally and spiritually depleted. We’re tempted to seek solace in things that lack substance and that ultimately leave us feeling unfulfilled. What’s your default when you’re off balance or running on empty? Stop and think about it for a minute. Do you anesthetize in front of a TV screen? Get lost in a good book? Scroll through social media? Look for an escape through a fun activity? Pour yourself a stiff drink? Eat an entire pan of brownies? Flip mindlessly through a magazine? Go on a shopping spree? Distract yourself with work and productivity? These things aren’t bad when practiced in moderation, but they’re distractions that only soothe you in the moment. None of them will sustain you with the deep rest and reassurance your soul craves. Before going to your usual default for comfort, spend some time with the Lord and ask Him for the grounding and rejuvenation you need.

-Remain Steady on the Solid Rock: The allure of wealth, power, financial security, education, social status, material possessions, health, and relationships makes them seem like reasonable foundations for our lives. With fingers crossed, we hope they’ll keep us steady and secure. And when they fail us, we’re shattered. Conversely, when we build the foundation of our lives on the Lord, He provides a rock solid steadiness that is firm no matter what storms blow through our lives. He provides a refuge and a resting place that withstands chaotic and uncertain times. When you’re feeling unsteady because something you hold dear is threatened, take heart remembering that your feet are firmly planted on the Solid Rock.

-Find Your Hope in Him: We often look for hope in things of the world–the promise of a happy home, a healthy body, a robust financial portfolio, a fulfilling career, or a significant relationship. Our hope rests in circumstances going according to plan as the future unfolds. These desires aren’t bad or wrong, but we’re treating temporary things like they’re of eternal significance. When we take refuge in the Lord, however, we find hope that is secure despite unpredictable circumstances. This hope encompasses something far beyond even the best things our broken world has to offer. That’s what Jesus explained as He concluded the Sermon on the Mount:

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7:24-27, NIV)

The next time you’re feeling unsteady or overwhelmed, use David’s words in Psalm 62 to regain your footing. Ask the Lord to help you find rest in Him. Thank Him for being your solid rock and firm foundation. Celebrate that your hope and security are grounded in Him and aren’t dependent on anything else. Even if your circumstances don’t change immediately, your perspective will

David’s words invite us to be defiant in the face of distress, choosing instead to focus on what we know is true about God. “Build My Life” is a song that captures this audacious hope. Prayers that center on God’s character remind us to rest secure on our solid foundation, no matter what. Listen to this version by Pat Barrett and make it your prayer today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smrq6hc-vcU

David’s Prayer: Psalm 5

Humbling ourselves before God and aligning our hearts and minds with Him allows us to keep our focus where it needs to be throughout the day.

Over the years, the Book of Psalms has become a significant part of my faith journey. The deep laments, honest soul-searching, and passionate praise have put words to my thoughts and feelings many times.

As one of the primary authors of Psalms, David was the most famous and renowned of all the kings of Israel. He was known as “a man after God’s own heart.” At different points in his life he was a shepherd, a musician, a poet, a warrior, a leader, a husband, and a father. Many of the chapters he wrote in that beloved book are songs and prayers that show his response to the different events that occurred in his life. 

For me, a number of psalms have become mile markers that bring back memories from specific moments in my past. Psalm 5 is one I remember learning when I was a teenager. I first heard it in the form of a song while sitting on a small beach during a houseboat trip with my youth group. Standing at the water’s edge, a few of the camp leaders strummed their guitars and led as we sang the first three verses. It was a powerful way to prepare our hearts before sending us off for some time alone with God. Even though it was archaic language, the sentiment resonated deeply with me. When I looked it up recently, I was surprised to see that the lyrics I remembered word-for-word were pulled directly from the King James translation without being altered:

“Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.” (Psalm 5:1-3, KJV)

The New International version translates it like this: “Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:1-3, NIV)

 Here’s what strikes me about this passage:

It honors God in the lamenting: Even in his emotional distress, David recognizes the sovereignty of God. He gives the Lord the superior place of honor He deserves, addressing Him not only has his God, but as his King. So often in our prayers we launch right into listing our needs and making requests. When we start first by acknowledging the Lord and placing Him above ourselves, we demonstrate humility. This moves us from demanding an answer to recognizing God’s graciousness to us.

It has a healthy perspective: David lays his requests before the Lord and then waits expectantly to hear from Him. The physical act of laying something down is a powerful image. We can’t keep our worries and fears tightly in our grasp and lay them before God simultaneously. We must relinquish them to Him and then step back and believe that He’s going to respond in His perfect timing. Telling Him we’re waiting expectantly shows we trust Him and frees us from the compulsion to keep fretting. Pastor and author Nancy Ortberg says that lamenting paves the way for praising God. When we lay our troubles down before Him, it frees us to look up and remember His sovereignty over all things.

It sets an example worth following: David begins his day with the Lord. Twice in one verse he mentions coming before God in the morning. His example reminds me of the importance of starting my day with prayer. This isn’t legalistic, it just makes good sense. We wouldn’t leave for the day without putting on clothes. We don’t see this as a luxury, but a necessity. Yet, often we don’t see the need for spiritual covering as an essential part of preparation for the day ahead. When I don’t make time for morning prayer, my focus is on myself and the people and circumstances I encounter. As soon as something doesn’t go the way I want, I’ll default to self-centeredness, frustration, and impatience. Conversely, when I start with my focus on the Lord, He wraps me in the grace, wisdom, and patience I need to approach my day with His perspective instead of mine.

It’s interesting to note that Jesus gave us a similar example. Mark 1:35 says, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” If the son of God chose to start His day with prayer, it’s probably wise to follow His example. Humbling ourselves before God and aligning our hearts and minds with Him allows us to keep our focus where it needs to be throughout the day.

Take a few mornings this week to read Psalm 5. Then, write prayers using some of the same elements David did such as:

  • being honest about your emotions 
  • honoring God’s superior position in your life
  • laying specific requests before Him
  • telling Him you’re waiting expectantly because you trust Him
  • asking for God’s leading
  • seeking God as your refuge—a place of safety amidst life’s dangers and storms
  • asking for God to spread His protection over you
  • thanking God that you can claim to be righteous because of Jesus
  • asking God to bless you and surround you with His favor

Chris Tomlin’s song “Nobody Loves Me Like You” starts off with the perfect lyrics to remind you when to start praying. Let it inspire you today.

Proactive Prayer

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Baring its sharp teeth, the dog growled menacingly as it stood poised to attack. Fear had gripped my friend and me as we walked past it each day on our way home from elementary school.   Usually we would reassure one another by pointing out the long metal chain that was stretched taut as the dog strained against it. However, on this particular day, my stomach lurched as we noticed the chain was slack. The snarling dog had finally succeeded in breaking free. Before we had time to react, it lunged for my friend, pinning her to the ground. Panicked, my seven-year-old mind cycled through the options: Should I try to pull the dog off? No, I wasn’t strong enough and we’d probably both get hurt. Should I knock on someone’s door for help? No, I wasn’t supposed to talk to strangers. Should I run to get my friend’s mom? Her house was several blocks away, but it seemed like the only sensible option. Beginning to cry, I stumbled down the street before stopping abruptly to turn back. How could I leave her like this? “God, please help!” I cried out in desperation. Shocked, I watched as the dog stepped away from my friend and calmly walked back into its yard, dragging the broken chain behind it.

My cry for help had unleashed the power of heaven on a quiet suburban street that day. As a first grader, I knew little about theology or the Bible, but I knew God loved me. I’d been reassured that Jesus was always with me because I’d invited Him into my heart. Difficult situations often lead us to seek God. I guess I experienced it first on that spring day at age seven.

The story of the dog attack stayed with me through the years and left me in awe of God’s power. I knew He was there for me and could help me in times of desperation and trials. However, it was not until much later that I understood prayer isn’t just something to engage reactively when we are in the midst of hard situations. God also invites us to look ahead and pray proactively about things yet to unfold. Proactive prayers anticipate future situations, both good and bad. They help to prepare us and invite God to intervene in advance.

The apostle Paul knew this. Throughout his writings, he repeatedly asked for prayer.   We see this in both letters to the church at Thessalonica:

“Brothers and sisters, pray for us.” (1 Thessalonians 5:25, NIV)

“As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1, NIV)

If I’m honest, I’ll admit that Paul’s requests for prayer are so frequent I don’t usually notice them. Until recently, I’d skim over his opening and closing comments so I could focus on the meat of his teaching. However, I now recognize the vital role prayer played in his ministry.   The message of the gospel spread through the Roman Empire not because of Paul’s skills or efforts but because of God’s power unleashed through prayer. Beth Moore explains it this way: “Not one inspired writer of the New Testament letters had more to say about prayer. He did not sit smugly back, presuming that Jesus would fulfill His purpose through him with little proactive effort on his part. He pressed in and prayed hard. To Paul, prayer was part of the necessary means even to a divinely foreordained end.” (Children of the Day, p. 192)

Praying proactively is about receiving what God has promised in His Word. It claims what He’s already said is ours for the taking. This kind of prayer isn’t about asking God to do what we want–it’s meant to make our perspectives line up with His. I’ll give you a few examples to clarify. Afterwards you can share your own in the comments at the bottom of this post.

The Desires of Our Hearts

Psalm 37:4 makes this promise: “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (NIV) I used to read this and not see how the first phrase informed the second. I thought something like this: Sure, I delight in God, so why doesn’t He give me this thing I want? Now I understand that when we take delight in the Lord, it means we are aligning our hearts with His. The desires of our hearts are also the desires of His heart. We know His heart by studying His Word. For example, we know that He values families and that He wants us to tell our children about Him so that they can love Him and know Him: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, NIV)

My desires for my children have changed over time as my understanding of God has grown. Instead of praying only about their circumstances, I pray more about their hearts. I pray they will value God’s Word and long for a deeper relationship with Him. I pray they will have teachable hearts and be open to the ways the Lord wants to work in and through their lives. I pray that they will delight in Jesus as I delight in Him. I pray they will become men of integrity and character. That is the desire of my heart. Of course I want them to have healthy relationships and a good education. I want them to launch and become successful adults, but I believe the most important thing I can pray is that they will love God and value His Word. The Bible assures me He wants the same for them.

Fulfilling His Call

Paul was called to share the gospel among the gentiles. He asked for prayer that the message would “spread rapidly and be honored” (2 Thessalonians 3:6, NIV). As followers of Jesus, we are all called to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19, NIV). Each of us has a part to play in sharing the gospel with others, whether or not we have the gift of evangelism. If this sounds daunting, remember that we do this through the power of the Spirit, not our own abilities. When we ask the Lord to identify people He wants to love through us, He will answer that prayer. Our job is to abide in Him and take action when He reveals someone who is ready to hear the good news. Second Peter 3:9 assures us that God doesn’t want anyone to perish, so we can pray with confidence knowing that asking for help us share His love is the very thing He wants us to do.

Changing Our Hearts, Not Just Our Circumstances

Without a doubt, the default mode of most people is to pray about their circumstances. The situations we face every day shape our attitudes, our relationships and our actions. It’s tempting to pray and ask God to fix or change difficult and frustrating situations. While this isn’t a bad thing to pray, it’s overlooking the fact that our circumstances have much to teach us. I think that’s Paul’s point when he says “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV) Instead of praying for our circumstances and waiting to see if/when/ how God is going to work in them, we can try changing our perspectives with these simple prayers:

“God, show me what you want me to learn through this.”

“God, refine my character.”

“God, reveal yourself to me.”

“God, help me to show your love, mercy and grace to others who are going through this hard thing with me.”

“God, be glorified in this situation and reveal how You are using it for good.” (See Romans 8:28)

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23, NIV)

Praying proactively requires us to step outside our current circumstances and to have an eternal perspective. It also means we need to study the Bible so that we can know God’s will and pray for His kingdom to spread on earth. His power is within reach, but we get to decide whether or not we want to receive it.

Praying opens the floodgates of Heaven, enabling us to access God’s glory and power. For more inspiration, click on the link to hear Meredith Andrews’ song “Open Up the Heavens.”

Praying Strategically

Many of us are strategic with our schedules, our finances, and our retirement. But it’s less common to find people who are as calculated and deliberate in their prayers. Although he’s best known for rebuilding Jerusalem’s broken down walls, the prophet Nehemiah provides an excellent example of how to pray strategically. 

To give you context, the events in his story unfold about a thousand years after Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt.  The book of Nehemiah takes place after the Jews’ seventy-year exile in Babylon. When the story opens, they’d already been allowed to return to Judah to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. Although they were free to go back, many Jews chose to remain in Babylon. Nehemiah was one of those who stayed behind to continue working as chief cupbearer in the palace of the King of Babylon. This influential position would have put him in close contact with the king daily, somewhat like a butler. Being a cupbearer to Artaxerxes was an esteemed role that was probably well paid and enabled him to live very comfortably. 

Chapter 1 opens with Nehemiah learning news about his home city of Jerusalem. He finds out, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.” (Nehemiah 1:3, NIV)

Nehemiah’s first response after hearing this distressing news is to pray:

“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you.We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.

Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’

They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” (Nehemiah 1:4-11, NIV)

Here are few things we can learn from his prayer:

-Start with Gratitude and Acknowledgement: Nehemiah opens his prayer by remembering God’s promises and His faithfulness. He recognizes the Lord’s character and sovereignty and approaches Him with humility. Try beginning your prayer time by making a point to thank God for His faithfulness in your life. Point out the character qualities you appreciate about Him. If you’ve been reassured by a specific promise or verse from the Bible, thank Him for how it encourages you in your circumstances.

-Admit Your Sin: Nehemiah takes ownership over his sin and the sins of his people. He recognizes that their exile was a direct result of their disobedience to God. He doesn’t blame the Lord for the hardships they’ve endured. Nehemiah understands that their sin over the long haul has had profound effects on them as a nation and as individuals. 

Is there a difficult situation you’re dealing with now that might be the result of long-term disobedience? Answering this may not be easy, but keep in mind that conviction from the Holy Spirit is not condemnation—it’s an opportunity to recognize and relinquish sin you’ve been harboring. Give it to God so it won’t continue to hinder your relationship with Him. Then, rest assured–we’re called to confess our sins, but God doesn’t keep a running tally. Psalm 103:12 tells us: “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” And 1 John 1:9 promises us: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

-Know Scripture so You Can Pray God’s Will: In his prayer, Nehemiah reminds the Lord of the promises He made to Moses. Read Deuteronomy 30:1-5 and you’ll notice how similar it is to what Nehemiah says. Clearly, he knows God’s Word and claims it with authority in his prayer. He remembers the Lord’s promises from the past and applies them to his current situation. Try taking a verse, a promise, or a situation from Scripture and personalizing it for a specific circumstance you’re facing.  Discovering God’s will in His Word and asking for it to be done in your life leads to powerful and effective prayers.

-Let Your Broken Heart Prompt Prayer and Action: After hearing terrible news about his people and his homeland, Nehemiah’s first impulse is to pray. His distress brings him to his knees before God. Maybe, like Nehemiah, you’ve heard about something happening either locally or globally that breaks your heart. It’s easy to feel helpless or overwhelmed at the thought of intervening to alleviate the suffering of others. Instead of dismissing those feelings, pray and ask God to show you if there is something you can do. Pay attention to the ways He may be nudging you to respond. If you’re already involved in a cause you believe in, pray and ask God to show you how you can maximize your impact there.

-Invite God to Leverage Your Resources and Connections: Nehemiah ends his prayer by asking God to grant him favor with “this man,” referring to the king. He knows Artaxerxes has valuable resources that can be used to help his people, and he asks God to use this relationship for the good of others. Maybe, like Nehemiah, there is a relationship in your life that you could leverage. Do you know someone with power, influence, resources, or authority who could use those things for good? Pray boldly and ask God to let you find favor with that person so that He can bless others through them. (This prayer prompt and the one above could go together in certain circumstances.)

Growing in our understanding of prayer nurtures our relationship with God. Let Meredith Andrews’ song “Draw Me Nearer” be the cry of your heart today.

Praying Honestly

Few people have heard the audible voice of God. There are a several instances recorded in Scripture when individuals dialogued with Him, but there’s one person who had multiple conversations with the Lord throughout his life–Moses. Some of the things we can learn about prayer from this hero of the faith may surprise you.

Let’s start with some background context. You might remember that Moses was born as a Hebrew slave in Egypt. His people, the Israelites, had emigrated to Egypt from Canaan about 400 years earlier during a severe famine. When they first arrived in Egypt, the Israelites were a large extended family of about seventy people consisting of twelve brothers, their wives and their children. Their father was Jacob, who had been re-named “Israel” by God. His family members and their descendants became known as Israelites. The Egyptians also called them Hebrews. Jacob and his eleven adult sons came with their families to Egypt at the invitation of Joseph, the twelfth son who had risen to a position of honor and power in Egypt. (This is the same Joseph that received the coat of many colors from his father and who was sold into slavery by his brothers as a teenager. His story is in Genesis 37, 39, 40-50.)

After Joseph’s death, life for the Israelites began to deteriorate as new Pharaohs came to power. The Israelites’ population steadily increased. This caused subsequent Pharaohs to fear the Hebrews would become so numerous they could overpower Egypt by joining its enemies if war broke out. To eliminate this threat, the Egyptians eventually enslaved the Hebrews and worked them ruthlessly.

In Exodus 1 & 2 we learn that Pharaoh’s solution for controlling the Hebrew population was to order that all Israelite baby boys be slaughtered at birth. However, when Moses was born, his mother concealed him for the first three months of his life.  Scripture explains, “But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. His sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him.

Then Pharaoh’s daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the riverbank. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her female slave to get it. She opened it and saw the baby. He was crying, and she felt sorry for him. ‘This is one of the Hebrew babies,’ she said. Then his sister asked Pharaoh’s daughter, ‘Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?’

‘Yes, go,’ she answered. So the girl went and got the baby’s mother. Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, ‘Take this baby and nurse him for me, and I will pay you.’ So the woman took the baby and nursed him.  When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh’s daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, saying, ‘I drew him out of the water.’” (Exodus 2:3-10, NIV)

Moses grew up as a prince in the household of Pharaoh, However, at the age of 40 his life pivoted dramatically when he decided to kill an Egyptian who he’d witnessed beating Hebrew slaves. Fearing retribution from Pharaoh, Moses fled to the neighboring land of Midian where he later married the daughter of a priest and lived as a shepherd.

Moses’ first personal encounter with God occurred when he was 80 years old. The swagger he had as a prince of Egypt had been stripped from him after four decades of being humbled in the desert.  His first conversation with God caught him by surprise while he was tending his flocks: “There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. So Moses thought, ‘I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.’ When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’

And Moses said, ‘Here I am.’

‘Do not come any closer,’ God said. ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.’ Then he said, ‘I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.’ At this, Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God.” (Exodus 3:2-6, NIV)

The Lord went on to explain that He had seen the misery of His people and was appointing Moses to go and lead his people out of slavery. Shocked, Moses’ first words to God were: “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11, NIV)

The Lord replied, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” (Exodus 3:12, NIV)

What stands out to me in this conversation is Moses’ surprising combination of reverence and honesty. He knelt humbly before the Lord and hid his face, but then boldly proclaimed his doubts about being able to fulfill the task he’d been given. Instead of just saying, “Yes, Lord” and then walking away with angst wondering how he’d follow through, he openly expressed his fears. And the Lord reassured Moses, promising to be with him and to give him a sign of His faithfulness. 

Later in the same conversation, Moses again showed bold honesty with the Lord saying, “’Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.’

The Lord said to him, ‘Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.’

But Moses said, ‘Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.’

Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, ‘What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him.’” (Exodus 4:10-16, NIV)

Moses’ lack of eloquence and fear of public speaking made him want to opt out of the Lord’s call on his life. Once again, God reassured him and even made a provision for his insecurity by offering to let his brother communicate for him. (Let’s not miss the irony that we’re learning about prayer from a hero of the faith who didn’t think he was skilled at speaking.)

The conversation Moses had with God inspires me to speak honestly in my prayers and to admit my inadequacies. It gives me the freedom to tell Him about my lack of confidence and to express my doubt that He could work through me. God’s reassurance and provision for Moses encourages me that we don’t need to be intimidated when approaching Him. We can be reverent but honest. When we read something in Scripture that seems too difficult or daunting to obey, we can be truthful, admit our hesitation, and ask Him to help us wrestle through it.

Is it time to take off your polite veneer in prayer and to be honest before God about your struggles, weaknesses, and inadequacies? If God reassured Moses and provided for him, there’s a good chance He’ll do the same for you.

Need a more modern example of an honest conversation with God? Then enjoy Jason Gray’s song “I’m Gonna Let It Go.”

Know Him

The end of the school year always makes me nostalgic. Graduations are a time to celebrate accomplishments, revel in memories, and recognize growth that’s taken place in a student’s life. This season usually prompts me to make unique cards for friends and family members celebrating milestones. When I’m inspired, I make ones that include old photos and memories from a graduate’s childhood. The more time I’ve spent with someone, the more detailed I can be with including fun facts I know about the person. I love the looks of delight on their faces when what I’ve created brings back forgotten moments or includes some aspect of their lives they didn’t realize I knew.

As I gave a funny homemade card to a longtime family friend recently, I thought about how I’d been able to conjure up so many details that would make him smile. I realized that this boy has been around our family since birth. I’ve watched and participated in his upbringing. I’ve seen his triumphs and his less than shining moments. Because I am aware of his habits, interests, and quirks, it was fun and easy to make a card for him.

Although it may sound strange, I thought of those homemade cards recently in relation to our prayer lives. Our ability to connect and engage with God on a deep level directly correlates to how well we know Him. It’s just like a human relationship– the more time we spend with Him and the more intentional we are, the richer our conversations become.

I think about moments when I’ve been in a group with people praying aloud. Sometimes I’m amazed at what they say. It’s not their eloquence or the breadth of their vocabulary, but their familiarity with God and His ways. They talk to Him about things I would never think to bring up in prayer. Maybe you know someone like this too– a person whose prayers are so deep and complete you feel like there’s no need for you to say more. It’s possible you may even feel a tiny bit inadequate or self-conscious praying in front of them. If you’re prone to comparing your prayers to others, it may help to shift your perspective.

When you’re intimidated to speak after hearing someone else pray, you’re playing right into the hands of the enemy. There are few things he probably celebrates more than a child of God feeling too inadequate and self-conscious to talk with his or her Heavenly Father. Remember, prayer isn’t a competition to see who can be the most articulate, but an opportunity to communicate directly with your Maker. There is no such thing as being “good” or “bad” at prayer. The only thing that may be holding you back from having deeper, richer prayer life is you. 

Knowing God and His Word are the keys to having vibrant and powerful communication with Him. And there’s no better place to learn about prayer than from people in Scripture who walked and talked with the Lord. Conversations between God and faithful followers run throughout the Old and New Testaments. Over the next few weeks, we’ll look at some familiar characters like Moses and David and some lesser known ones like Nehemiah and Jehoshaphat. We’ll examine prayers of Jesus, Paul, and other founders of the New Testament church. Through them, I hope we’ll be inspired to grow in our personal dialogues with God and to recognize “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16b, NIV) Beyond that, it’s my goal for us to apply what we’re learning so that we can experience the richness of a deep and impactful prayer life. 

God knows us fully. Because He’s infinite, we can spend our lives cultivating a relationship with Him, yet always have more to discover. As we seek Him consistently, our ability to align with His will and to communicate authentically will plunge ever deeper.

If you want to keep growing in your prayer life, I hope you’ll follow along as we discover what we can learn from those who walked with God. In the meantime, let Tauren Wells’ song “Known” remind you that God knows you fully. Then, let it inspire you to know Him more every day.

The Feast of the Lamb

Touching down on the runway, I switched on my phone as the plane taxied to the gate. My mind buzzed with excitement anticipating the weekend of wedding festivities that lay ahead. As we jolted to a stop, I glanced at a text message I’d received mid-flight and my stomach lurched: a close friend’s father had passed away earlier that morning and her husband had reached out to share the news. Stunned, I froze for a moment before burying my face in my hands as tears began flowing. Though I ached for my friend’s loss, I also rejoiced that her father was no longer suffering from a debilitating disease. The news triggered a surprising wave of personal grief as memories of losing my own dad surfaced. Wiping my eyes and taking a deep breath, I gathered my things as we prepared to exit the plane.

After a phone call with my friend, I pushed the pause button on my emotions and changed gears. We’d flown halfway across the country to gather with extended family for a happy reason—the wedding of our nephew. Over two action packed days, we spent time connecting with family members and old friends to celebrate the marriage of a man and woman who loved Jesus and one another deeply. Standing under massive shade trees bordering a meadow dotted with wildflowers, we watched as our beaming nephew awaited his radiant bride. Although the surroundings were picturesque, what caught my attention most was the deep joy that permeated the wedding. It was clear that these two had been covered in prayer throughout their lives. Both sets of parents had prayed fervently for the Lord to lead their children to godly spouses who would complement them perfectly. Their marriage was starting on a firm foundation and the wedding celebration was evidence of God’s faithful provision.

Scanning the crowd during the reception, I marveled at the many meaningful connections there were between the guests. With so many godly and faithful people there, the overlaps in ministry and friendship were plentiful. I loved reconnecting with a mentor I hadn’t seen since college and was thrilled to meet people with common connections to friends and ministries I’d served with in the past. It was an amazing array of faith-filled people and felt like a foretaste of the great wedding feast prophesied by John in the Bible:

 “Then a voice came from the throne, saying: ‘Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both great and small!’ Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean was given her to wear.’ (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)

Then the angel said to me, ‘Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’ And he added, ‘These are the true words of God.’” (Revelation 19:5-9, NIV)

If you’re unfamiliar with this passage, it’s describing the celebration that will occur after the final judgement: “God’s people are arrayed in fine linen, clean and white because Christ’s shed blood has washed away their sins. They are presented righteous and pure to their bridegroom, Christ. At the marriage supper, individual believers are guests, but collectively they are the bride.”* This links to many passages where Scripture uses a groom and his bride as a picture of God and His people in the Old Testament and Christ and the Church in the New Testament (most notably in Ephesians 5:22-32).

This brings me to an unlikely comparison– I felt the same deep joy that characterized my nephew’s wedding a few weeks later at the memorial service for my friend’s dad. Once again, people gathered to celebrate, only this time it was for the life of a man who met Jesus as a young dad and followed Him passionately for the next four and a half decades. Throughout the service, we heard stories about his love for the Lord and how it informed every aspect of his life in his home, his leisure time, and his career. A lump formed in my throat trying to sing the words to “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” It was overwhelming to worship the God who had used this gifted, yet humble, man to love and serve so many. 

Sitting at the service surrounded by old friends once again made me think about the great wedding feast of the Lamb. I’ve learned to savor those sweet moments at weddings and funerals when we get to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s goodness. There was a deep fulfillment in celebrating with others who faithfully followed Jesus and who were intent on seeing His kingdom advance on earth. Over time I’ve discovered that a significant bond connects those who walk the narrow path that leads to life described in Matthew 7:13-14. 

I realized both events gave a glimpse of what’s ahead for all who call Jesus Lord and Savior. One day all believers will gather at the Feast of the Lamb to worship Jesus together. I can only imagine the many joy-filled reunions between old friends and family members that will take place.  After years of following Him, we’ll see Jesus face to face and revel in His glory and grace collectively. 

As I reflect on those recent celebrations, I can’t help but think of people attending who couldn’t fully comprehend or appreciate what was taking place because they didn’t know Jesus. They were unable to access the spiritual significance or marvel at God’s faithfulness like the rest of us. They couldn’t recognize the Lord’s amazing handiwork because they had no context for it. My heart should ache for them more than it does. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will prompt me to sow seeds of faith liberally in the lives of others in hopes that they recognize and receive God’s tremendous love. 

Kristian Stanfill’s song “Even So Come” paints an inspiring picture of waiting faithfully for our Bridegroom to return. As you listen, imagine the joyful reunion you’ll experience with Jesus one day, then go and share it with someone else so they can be a part of it too.

*Halley’s Bible Handbook, Zondervan, 2000, p. 958 

God is With Us in Our Anxiety

Ever noticed those tickers that scroll across the bottom of a TV screen on certain news channels? They provide a constant stream of information so that if we’re not worrying about the main news story, we can find another thing that will unsettle us instead. Unfortunately, I think my brain works in a similar way. Like a news channel, my mind seems to have several screens in view simultaneously, with thoughts in the forefront and a whole lot more that constantly scroll through the background. And the screens multiply as the holidays approach.

I don’t like to admit it, but fighting against feelings of anxiety is a regular struggle for me. And I know I’m not alone. Anxiety is rampant in our culture for people of all ages and stations in life. Even those who faithfully walk with the Lord often forget that Jesus is Immanuel, which means “God with Us.” (Matthew 1:23)  Jesus assured His disciples, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

When I stop to remember this promise, it soothes my frayed nerves and reminds me to lay my worries at the feet of Jesus. Just knowing He is with me eases my racing mind and helps me to realign my focus on Him. If you struggle with anxiety like I do, then you might find reassurance from some of the passages below. Use them to realign your thoughts and to help you trade your anxiety for the true peace found only in Jesus.

1 Peter 5:7
“ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

A synonym for the word “cast” here is “transfer.” So, casting our anxiety before Jesus means we transfer the tangle of our worries from our minds to His hands. Regardless of how the circumstances unfold, we can trust Him because He cares for us.

Philippians 4:6-8
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Instead of expending mental energy worrying, we can direct it toward praying about the things that make us anxious. As we thank God for His faithfulness and trustworthiness, He fills us with an inexplicable peace that isn’t tied to our circumstances. That peace allows us to replace anxious thoughts with God’s truth. If you struggle with giving your anxious thoughts to the Lord, try writing them down on a piece of paper or in a prayer journal to stop spinning on them needlessly.

Romans 12:1-2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

The world goads us toward worry and anxiety all day long. The best way to fight against this is to pray and ask God to renew your mind. Invite Him to cleanse your mind of worries, fears and fretting and to renew it with thankfulness, hope and peace. Make this a daily practice when those anxious feelings begin to tighten their grip on you.

2 Corinthians 10:5
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

Many things in this world distract us from the knowledge of God and the truth of His Word. The antidote is to pray and read God’s Word. Whenever I’m feeling anxious, critical or insecure, I stop and ask God to take my thoughts captive and to make them obedient to Him. If I can, I pray aloud using this verse and the previous one together, simply saying, “God, take my thoughts captive and renew my mind.” It’s amazing how quickly claiming the truth of Scripture in prayer shifts my focus away from anxious thoughts and towards the reassurance that God is with me.

Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

To be steadfast is to be resolute, firm or unwavering. When we keep our minds steadfastly focused on God and His trustworthiness, we can find peace in any and every circumstance.

For many of us, the holiday season includes a liberal dose of anxiety. But if we reflect on the Christmas story, we can find examples of people who trusted the Lord instead of fretting.  Take Jesus’ mother, Mary, for example. She praised God for choosing her to be the mother of the long-promised Messiah. Her status as an unwed, pregnant teen opened her to ridicule, judgement and shame. Yet because of her trust in God, she could say with confidence, “I am the Lord’s servant…May your word to me be fulfilled…My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:38, 46b, 47) If anyone had cause to be anxious, it was Mary. Yet she trusted God, rejoiced at His goodness and welcomed the new direction her life would be taking. She knew God would be with her no matter what stressful circumstances she would encounter.

Thinking about Mary’s situation and her reaction to it humbles me. She not only accepted God’s plan, she welcomed it, celebrating her pregnancy instead of being anxious over it. Her example inspires me to trust God and give Him control of that ticker scrolling through my brain.  Let the significance of her trust in God sink in as you listen to “Be Born in Me” by Francesca Battistelli.

All Scriptures quoted from the New International Version.