How I am reminded and prompted to pray.
Years ago, as a new Christian, I would, from time to time, feel an extra nudge from Holy Spirit, to pray. I would determine in my mind to set aside some time to read my Bible and pray every day.
But, as a working wife and mom with children active in extra curricular activities, I found our lives to be extra busy with working, preparing meals, homework and games in and out of town.
Just as I would be drifting off to sleep, I would remember 'Aww man, I didn't spend time in the Word! But I can at least pray, right?' Unfortunately after just a couple of minutes of prayer, sleep would overtake me.
Every morning, I would wake up feeling guilty and vow to do better only to have that same scene repeat itself over and over. Ugh! Kudos to you, moms and dads out there who can balance life!
So the kids grew up, moved away and started their own family. Life has slowed down and now, I start my mornings with Jesus and coffee. My quiet time is not always the same. I will either, study the Word, write in my journal, read the word, argue with the dogs (LOL, yes, I argue with my dogs) or spend time in my Secret Place. Sometimes when a loved one is heavy on my heart, I will write out a prayer covering them...sometimes I send it to them, sometimes I don't. But two things I do everyday: create an encouraging graphic for my Facebook page and PRAY.
As this year slowly drags by kicking and screaming, I began to feel that holy nudge again to PRAY. Pray more, my daughter. Yes, Pappa, I will! As I went through my days, it was hit and miss to pray extra UNTIL I ran across this purple and neon green wristband I had bought at a Mandisa concert a few years ago. And with a quiet whisper, Holy Spirit said, 'Put it on.'
Oh yeah! I remembered receiving a white wristband, years ago, with the words "Pray for China" The idea was, any time you noticed the wristband, you were to pray for the persecuted Christians in China. Same idea, different nation. Thank you Holy Spirit.
I immediately put it on and went about my day. And wouldn't you know it, I take notice of the wristband numerous times during the day. What do I pray about? Most of the time, it's about the state of our nation. Sometimes my husband, children and their spouses, grandchildren, parents, pastors, mentors, church, friends, Israel or even myself. Sometimes, when nothing comes to mind, I will ask Holy Spirit what to pray about and He will always whisper a name or I briefly visualize someone's face.
Sometimes, I can actually stop what I'm doing and sit or kneel as I pray. Sometimes, I'll be driving, or cooking, folding laundry or working in the flower beds. Sometimes, I will pray for 5-10 minutes, sometimes it's just a short sentence or two. Sometimes, it's giving praise and thanks.
Are you looking to increase your prayer life but struggle to remember to pray like I did? Try the wristband idea.
Do you have a method that reminds you or prompts you to pray? Share it with us in the comments!
If you missed it, check out my post from 8/29/20 "A Prayer for the United States of America"
Psalm 17:6 "I call on you, my God, for You will answer me; turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer."
Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans."
Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
You are loved!
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