Be a Blessing
Karen Anne Smith of Ludington, MI, USA
Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. -1 Thessalonians 5:16-19
It has been a few years since I was first challenged to “post a scripture for seven days” on Facebook. It’s been quite an adventure! Practicing this spiritual discipline has transformed my life. I am surprised by my responses to the needs of others, and to life’s challenges. God often supplies words that are wiser than this foolish, old woman will ever offer. When abused and falsely accused by an e-mail “friend,” I didn’t take it personally because I fully understood that it was all about his own struggle with mental illness. That is not like me at all. I\’ve always been highly sensitive to criticism. A negative word would be enough to send me into hiding and self-recrimination. I’m free of that now. Consistent prayer has brought me into closer relationship with the Divine. I can feel God’s love and sense God’s guidance more clearly now.
Stress had been a way of life for me when anticipating new experiences. Not anymore. I prayed often about guidance regarding my medical path. I felt reassurance that I was not alone in sorting it all out. This timid, afraid-to-talk-to-people woman was able to talk with doctors and the insurance company with confidence and calm. I prayed about the insulin that I would need and felt only warmth and assurance. It is a blessing. I prayed again before trying to inject myself for the first time and was again given calm and confidence. It was easy! I feel great.
I share this not to boast, but to illustrate the huge difference consistent daily prayer can make. Prayer is key to spiritual advancement. Seek your Heavenly Parent, put your faith and trust in God, and you will find peace and happiness. Joy will always be yours when you seek to share that love and peace with others. I know this is true from my own experience.
Be blessed. Be a blessing.
Prayer Phrase
“Awake, my soul!” (Psalm 57:8)
Spiritual Practice
The Prayer of the Heart
Early Christian disciples desired to take seriously the scripture mandate to pray “without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The prayer of the heart invites us to pray “continuously” by repeating and returning to a prayer phrase planted for intentional reflection and deepening. Choose a word or phrase (from scripture, hymnody, or personal reflection) that has meaning for you. The Jesus Prayer is one form of the prayer of the heart: “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me” (Luke 18:35-43). Invite this simple phrase to repeat in your heart throughout the day, awakening your soul to God’s presence.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
