Today is National Day of Prayer (NDP). So I wanted to take a minute to speak to the general public and those who may not fully “get” this whole prayer thing.
To be honest, sometimes I like to use my imagination and think of God’s response to things like NDP. It’s kinda like when I imagine God’s response to our celebration of Christmas. I mean, He doesn’t decorate a tree or use a bunch of twinkle lights to liven up His throneroom in anticipation of the big day. No disrespect intended.
And when it comes to NDP I can’t imagine that He’s all excited like, “Finally, people will talk to me. Finally, things can change around here.”
He’s the God of the universe.
I respect NDP and what it encompasses. I will even join in and pray with Anne Graham Lotz at noon. But I think it’s important to clarify the expectations and the heart behind NDP for the “passers-by”.
God isn’t looking for a bunch of people to call on him one day of the year. God moves in lives and nations when people humble themselves and seek His face as a lifestyle.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16 – 5:18
Prayer is meant to be like breathing. It needs to be like breathing. My perspective is constantly skewed and affected by the world around me mingling together with my emotionally-driven-wayward heart.
Prayer turns my soul to the One who sees the beginning from the end and has promises intended to invade every second of my day. Prayer stirs up truth in my spirit and His strength for the journey ahead.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:6 – 4:7 ESV)
Let’s join in with our brothers and sisters across the nation praying for revival and healing. But as a nation, let’s not deceive ourselves into thinking that one day of sacrificial prayer is what God desires. By His grace, He moves powerfully through the lives of men and women bowed low in Jesus name on Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday and every other day.
May today be the first day of a lifestyle of humble prayer.
Fill me, Lord…
How have you seen prayer affect your own life?
Oh and this is a good time to remind you of the site we launched back in January. Million Praying Women will be starting a new series for the month of May: praying for marriages. Click here to join us!
Good thoughts here! I’ve found I’m at my most peaceful when praying is like breathing. BUT! I have to constantly remind myself of that.
Also….I missed the NDP, apparently.