First Steps – October 9, 2017

One of the questions I get asked often is “Is there a right or wrong way to pray?”  The short answer is “No.”  Though words are important for they convey meaning, give expression, and provide communication, when it comes to prayer, they are only part of the story.  For instance, we pray more unspoken prayers than we realize.  There are also times our words don’t match our heart’s desire.  In those cases, what is more important:  the words or our heart’s desire?  The Apostle Paul even said when words fail us, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf (Romans 8:26-27).

Countless times when I have received horrible news about a friend, a church member, or an acquaintance, and my first thought was, “God, how can I help this person?”  Not knowing what to pray, my thoughts were only for their strength to endure.  As quick as I said, “Lord, I don’t know where to begin,” I perceived God to say, “I already know.”

Words are important but don’t get hung up on them. Eventually the words will come. Focus on your own heart—just express it to God and that will be enough.

This week’s reading:

Prayer Requests:
All those affected by the mass shooting in Las Vegas.
Hurricane relief efforts to continue
Our Country and Our Leaders
Phase I of our Building Campaign