Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- December 9, 2010
“Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.” Jeremiah 42:3
There is wisdom in praying about “that”, whatever “that” may mean. It may mean waiting on marriage because one parent has yet to bless the engagement. “That” could represent a check in your spirit over a business deal or an additional financial obligation. Praying about “that” is the Lord’s way to protect, preserve and provide for His children.
What are you currently facing that needs your prayerful attention? Perhaps it’s a career transition—pray about that, considering changing churches—pray about that, tempted to quit school—pray about that, or weighing an opportunity to volunteer—pray about that. Prayerfully ask, “What does the Lord want for my life and what’s best for His kingdom?”
“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:12-13).
It’s in the discipline of waiting that we discern the best course of action. Consider cloistering yourself with Christ for twenty-four hours, just to listen and learn. It is rare that prayer is a waste of time—indeed it saves time. When you pray about “that”, you allow the Holy Spirit to tap on the breaks of your busy life. Slow down and listen to Him.
Prayer positions you to be productive in the ways of God. Abraham’s senior servant experienced this, “Then he prayed, “LORD, God of my master Abraham, make me successful today, and show kindness to my master Abraham” (Genesis 24:12).
When you, your family, your church, your company or your ministry prays about “that”, you receive from the Lord liability insurance for your life. Where He leads, He commits to provide. Where He reroutes, He creates the necessary resources. Where He shuts doors, He opens another with greater Kingdom possibilities. So, pray about that knot in your stomach and watch Him free you in effective service for your Savior Jesus.
“Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man” (Nehemiah 1:11).
What am I facing that needs my patient prayers? Who can I engage to pray with me?
Related Readings: Ezra 8:23; Daniel 9:20; Luke 22:40-46; Acts 4:23-31
