Thursday, September 24, 2009

JUST PRAY

Have you ever been discouraged, felt stretched to the limit? Yeah? Well I guess we have lots in common, at least today. Some days, that's where I am too. Joylene Nowell Butler, author of Dead Witness, suggested on her blog the other day, to try to make your mind just stop for a few moments. In other words, clear your thoughts. I suppose I do that every morning during my prayer time. Be still and listen for the words of God. I heard a sermon recently where the pastor said she heard another pastor say we should spend at least five minutes a day in prayer. She said, "I think there might be five minutes a day I'm NOT in prayer." I have to agree with her. I start in the early morning, before the sun comes up. Be Still and Know that I am the Lord your God. It is then, during those times I feel at peace. During those still, quiet moments when HE and I are alone. I am also practicing Ms. Butlers approach to "clearing" my mind. A little while ago a situation arose which upset me. Instead of praying, or "clearing" my mind, I tried to fix it. Because that's what I do. I'm a fixer. Maybe that's why so many people come to me. I'm a fixer. A friend came over for coffee a few days ago and she reminded me that I can't "fix" everybody. I can't take everybody under my wing. Maybe that's the reason for this blog today. I can't fix it, but I know how to help you fix it. Just pray. When someone says to me, "all I can do is pray," it always amazes me. Do they have any idea of the power of prayer? I've just spent the past hour "casting all my cares on the Lord and HE will sustain you, HE will never let the righteous fall." (Psalms 55:22) I'm not sure who the Lord intended to read this blog today, but if you would like email me and let me know. We'll pray together. The rest of you have a blessed day. Let me know how you're doing.

6 comments:

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I talk to God all day long too. I give thanks in the morning, list my gratitude, then check in with Him all through the day. During my quiet still time, I listen to His breathing and feel His Heart beating. It is a glorious few moments.

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

We're serving an awesome God!

David Ebright said...

Knowing that God is in control of all things makes prayer even more meaningful. What amazes me is, we matter to Him, even with all our cares & worries, & despite our miserable failings. Prayer is (should be) a constant part of our daily lives. Have a great weekend.

Anonymous said...

I'm always surprised at the "all I can do is pray" attitude, too... as if it's a last resort and not likely a very affective option at that. If they only knew! (And they'll only know if we tell them.)

Carol

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Dave, yes knowing God is in control is powerful knowledge. Sometimes when I pray, and don't get the answer I expected, things don't work out the way I planned, then I realize God had a better plan, I imagine Him looking down at me saying---"DUH" Thankfully HE does have a sense of humor!
Blessings my friend
Katt

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Carol, I know what you mean. When people say that to me I am always amazed!!! And usually what I say is "thank you so much---I REALLY need all the prayers I can get"
Blessings to you my friend
Katt