It never fails. Try to quiet the mind and thoughts start jumping around like little monkeys. I actually wrote down the thoughts that entered my mind in the first minute of prayer this morning:
What time do I have to leave?
What’s that smell?
Sun’s coming up,
Jim running water at sink.
Muffin (the cat) gets up, goes downstairs.
Christmas coming. Need to start getting gifts.
Muffin’s telling Jim I didn’t feed her. Yes I did.
Sound of truck outside. Must have a trailer attached.
Crows. Golly, how many?
It sure is easier to keep talking to God with requests than to quiet our mind and listen for Him. The internet search on quieting the mind suggests meditation, exercise, petting a dog or cat, watch fish swim, slow our breathing, etc…. These are good ideas for battling the barrage of thoughts in an anxious mind, but then these are all focusing the mind on something else.
How do we just get quiet and listen for Him?
Have you ever been in a conversation with someone who processes information silently before they speak? (like me) You speak your part then sit quietly waiting for their response – being patient, attentive, knowing it might take a while. Maybe it’s a bit like that.
Practicing the sacredness of the present moment may also be helpful. Fancy words for a simple concept. Constantly, the past and future come to mind, demanding our attention. But consider this, the immediate moment, the right now is the only moment of time that actually exists! Swipe away the past and the not yet. Refuse the mind’s urging for making decisions, plans. Empty your thoughts in this clear, pristine moment. Consciously sit in the NOW – open to God, giving that space only to Him.
We would love to hear what works for you. Suggestions?
Lord, we wrestle with the ages-old problem of distractions in prayer. Help us to clear our minds, giving only You this precise moment in time. We praise You, Lord. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
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