When trying to converse on a particular subject with my grandkids, it often goes something like this:
Me: “Mother’s Day is coming up. What should we do for Mommy?”
Colton: “Waylon pushed me off the couch this morning.”
Me: “Oh, I’m sorry. What about Mother’s Day? What should we do for Mommy?”
Colton: “He pushed me hard and didn’t say sorry.”
Me: “I’m sorry. But I’m sure he did not want to hurt you. What can we do for Mommy?”
Colton: “He did mean it. I found a stink bug, too.”
And with the other 3 year old who still thinks bathroom topics are hilarious:
Me: “Mothers Day is coming up. What should we do for Mommy?”
Lennon: “Let’s give her poopy pants!”
Me: “Yikes, I don’t think she wants poopy pants.”
Lennon: Laughing, she says, “Ha ha, made you say it!”
When we attempt prayer, I wonder if God feels the same way when trying to have a conversation with us and our minds are running off on different tangents.
Then there are times when in prayer our mind goes to a sensitive area about our heart condition (God reaching in to address sin) and we evade the uncomfortable topic, like the woman at the well (John 4). Jesus says to her, “The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband.” The woman immediately changes the subject, “Our fathers worshiped on this mountain….”
Sometimes when the sensitive subject come to mind, we shut down and end prayer time all together. I imagine God saying, “Wait! Come back! I want to help you and bless you!”
Prayer is crucial to a growing, dynamic, reciprocating relationship with God. It is where open conversation takes place. We simply must practice and learn how to “stay in it” and “stay focused” if we are going to reap the benefits available to us in prayer.
Lord, help us to quiet and discipline our hearts and minds. May we face the truths You reveal with courage and trust. May Your intended blessings for us come to fruition. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
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