When life gets dark and difficult, when it gets dim and murky, when I’m disillusioned or frustrated or down, there are things I do to feel better (work out, play soccer, play guitar, write about it, and so on).
But one source of strength and comfort rises to the top of the list for me.
When I just can’t seem to see straight and I’m bent over with burdens that weigh me down, if I drop to my knees and petition a Higher Source for insight and inspiration, inner strength and direction, for solace and motivation and faith and the courage to continue on, I find I’m able to withstand the pressures a little better, see more clearly, act more decisively and stand a little taller than before I knelt.
What improves my sessions with God is my naked openness, my humble petitions, my heart-felt expressions of gratitude, sincere desire and my belief that prayer works. What also helps is to open myself for inspiration, refusing to put into God’s mouth the words I want to hear. I also do better when I sit and meditate on the things I prayed about, “listening” for impressions and strength and inspiration. Then I write it down and go about working to make sure His answers are realized in my life.
Funny how we get answers to our prayers so much more often when we play a role in seeing the answers come to fruition. When we sit and wait for God to do all the work, we sometimes find ourselves sitting for long periods of time.
Thank-you for reminding me of the power that prayer can have in our lives. Sometimes I forget to pray…..but oh when I do something amazing happens. I feel lighter, I feel liberated from my fears and worries as if they don’t have such a great hold on me. And like a warrior princess I press ever forward to fulfill my purpose in life. Your words here inspired me and you spoke them with such openness and honesty. Keep inspiring the world one article at a time. We need more people like you that live by these timeless principles.
Thanks for sharing that, Shalanda. I love the way you explained how prayer makes you feel. Very eloquently said!
Prayer is such an important part of my life. When we carve out a particular time or process in the day and embed it into our daily routine, I’ve found that the habit is easier to set and maintain. I do a lot of my praying, for example, in the car on the way to work.
So glad to have inspired you, Shalanda! Thanks so much for letting me know.