July 20 Daily Pause
July 20, 2020 | Derik Hughes
READ: Matthew 6: 5-15
REFLECTION: Prayer. Prayer is such a big word to so many people, and it can be nerve-wracking. Two things come to my mind about what we often say about prayer:
- I don't know what to say or how to pray. That's an easy one. Just talk to our Father. Be honest with Him. Tell him that you're thankful for the gifts He's trusted you with, tell Him that you are happy, tell Him that you are sad, tell Him that you are angry with Him. Tell him everything. Our God is big enough to take it. He can take everything we throw at Him, and He won't respond in retaliation. He will respond in love.
- Another thing I hear is "who am I" that the God of the universe cares about me, "I am a nobody." I want us to put a stop to that mindset immediately. It's not just wordplay, but we are wonderfully made and unique to our Father. Even the hairs on our head are numbered (Matthew 10:30). Instead of saying, "who am I," start saying, "Father, I know you really love who I really am."
In closing, don't be afraid of prayer. The real power comes when He catches us on our knees. So, pray.
PRAYER: Just talk to God. He is listening.