Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Father God so many times it is quoted to me, and I have quoted to others, the words “prayer changes things.” I do believe, with all my heart, that when I focus my attention on praying, when I am in constant and consistent communion with You, that things do change. And not necessarily in the situation or circumstances that I am praying about. No. Sometimes they do but most of the times they don’t. What prayer always changes is me. There is something about fellowship with You, communing with You, being in Your presence that transforms me from the inside out, calming my spirit, and showing me that You are in control. And what’s funny, it isn’t prayer that changes things. It’s YOU. You change things – my heart, my perspective, my desires. When I pray You change me because I am with You. And nobody who comes into Your presence can stay the same. And LORD, I love the change!
So today, I set aside my ambitions, agendas, and “angles,” and fix my heart and my life on prayer, being with You, fellowshipping with You, communing with You. As I look at the world around me with all of its challenges, conflicts and catastrophes waiting to happen, I peel my heart attachment from them and lay them before, watching what You will do with them, and listening for Your sweet, soft voice to speak to me and grant me peace and guidance. In heartfelt gratitude I take my place at Your feet, eyes wide open and ears tuned into Your voice, my inner soul crying out, “Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening!” I am thankful that You are not a God Who is far off, but are always near. Through the sacrifice of my Savior, Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Spirit I am always in Your presence. The calling is to be devoted to nurturing that union in my heart.
So today, I bow before You, lifting my heart up in praise, bearing my soul’s most intimate concerns and cares to You. Thank You for always hearing me, especially when I don’t have the words to say. Thank You for always seeing me, especially when I feel like I am lost in the crowd. Thank You for always loving me, especially when I am most unlovable. Glory to Your Name! Amen!