Prayer Tip: Living As Those Prepared to Die
Daily Scripture
2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 14, 17-18
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed… because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence… this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
All of us deal with struggles in our lives. At times, some of us have even felt the “but not” sides of the above passage–crushed, depressed, abandoned or somewhat destroyed. I don’t believe Paul is trying to deny our feelings. He knew how hard life could be. I think Paul is saying that no matter how bad it is, the worst thing is literally never the last thing. The last thing is when we are eternally safe and secure in the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Paul knew that our God is a God of hope and compassion; a God who walks with us through the ups and downs of life and even carries us through at times; a God of resurrection who saves us day after day after day.
But in the midst of our deepest, darkest valleys, these messages can be extremely difficult to receive and believe. In those times in particular, the following methods help me pray. I invite you to use them as a framework for your prayer today and whenever helpful.
1) Consider the power and vastness of God. Take time to breathe and sense God’s presence all around you. God is the Creator of the universe. God is bigger than all things. Acknowledge and appreciate God in the ways you can. Viewing or being in nature is a great way to start. I love looking at the night sky.
2) Give thanks to God for the blessings in your life. Remember that there are always things for which to be thankful. Take the time to identify and name each of those.
3) Talk to God about what you’re going through. God cares and wants a real relationship with you. If you’re afraid you aren’t being reverent enough, I suggest reading some of the Psalms (for example, Psalm 13 or Psalm 22). It’s okay to be honest and express your true feelings. Then, spend time listening for God and resting in God’s presence.
4) Praise God through music. Find a song that reassures you of God’s character, promises and care and that brings a measure of peace to your soul. For me, one such song is Mighty to Save (words and music by Reuben Morgan and Ben Fielding). Click here if you’d like to hear it as sung by Laura Story.
5) End with The Lord’s Prayer. Take time to really think about what you’re praying.
Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us, not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
GPS Insights
Chris Holliday
This week's prayer tip is by Chris Holliday. Chris joined the Resurrection staff in 2009 and currently serves as the Connection and Care Pastor and Director of Adult Discipleship at Resurrection West.
