I’m Just not Feelin’ it!

Apr 22 2015 I’m Just not Feelin’ it!

Sipping a steaming cup of tea, my bottom planted in my favorite chair, my Bible nestled on my lap- I set out to pray. Before my eyelids shut completely, I notice a thick layer of dust on the fireplace and nag myself to dust it later. Attempt number two begins as my chubby dog saunters by. I think about walking her later in the day. Focusing my mind again, attempt number three begins. But not before I notice the chips in my toe polish…

I generally do not have an ADD disposition, but many a morning, my brain will not cooperate with my prayer plans. I’m just not feelin’ it!

Do you ever experience this conundrum: right place, right time, wrong mindset?

Over the years, I have learned that I need a different approach to getting prayer in motion when my brain is trailing away and using up all my time thinking about dusty fireplaces, full-figured dogs, and ugly toes.

Two of my go-to’s are Psalms and Prayerbooks.

 Psalms: The book of Psalms is a book of prayer. It is a rich collection filled with praises, poetry, laments, and prayers to God. While reading through the Psalms, I highlight the verses that speak to my heart. Then, on a dry day, I pray these highlights aloud as they become my own prayers and praises. The cry of David’s heart becomes the cry of my own.

Prayerbooks: Books printed with prayers. They are scripture-based, dealing with anything from grief, addictions, marriage, and so on. Traditional church prayerbooks include Doxologies and Catechisms. But my favorites are less formal than these. I regularly use The Power of Praying books by Stormie Omartian; prayer guides used to pray for my husband and children. Secondly, I use a book by Beth Moore called  Praying God’s Word. It is thorough, covering most issues that humankind struggles with. Many others are available; explore online (www.christianbook.com) and see what suits you in your season of life.

I yearn to make the most of my time with God, so I am thankful for His word and enriching resources to help me on those hard-to-focus mornings.

I pray God will bless and enrich your prayer time. May you hone your focus as you draw ever closer to Him.

If you will excuse me, I’ve got a dog to walk.

“The Lord has heard my supplication; 

The Lord will receive my prayer.”

Psalms 6:9 NKJV