We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.
Psalm 33: 20-22 (NIV)
The competition was intense. Heads lifted, standing tall with precise intentional movements, cartwheeling and spinning in midair, my granddaughter’s gymnastic meet had the audience on the edge of their seats.
A few days later, as the music and roar of the crowd grew louder, my grandson’s team put forth that same kind of effort and determination while gliding on the ice, and slamming that one lone hockey puck into their opponent’s net.
As I took great delight in cheering them on, I couldn’t help but think that their discipline, and desire to perform at their best, while having fun doing it, was becoming more and more apparent.
Knowing the commitment and sacrifice it took to make the after school practices, and events, I thought of all the coaches, friends, and family members who had instilled in these children not only the confidence to believe in themselves, but had helped to give them the ability to achieve the necessary skills to compete.
Each of these athletes were also given an even bigger gift. The gift of a positive mindset. And maybe, just maybe they were also discovering the discipline of prayer.
I don’t know about you, but now more than ever I feel the need to pray.
Some days all I need to do is get out of bed, and like the hockey players seemingly dressed for battle with all their gear, I’m reminded that I need to suit up, too. Have you ever felt that way?
It’s true. You and I have our own struggles, and weariness to contend with. The evil and destruction from the enemy, and dangers of the world appears insurmountable at times. It’s bad enough we may feel under attack, but those we care about are, too.
God’s promises provide the solutions we need.
In Psalm 3: 3-5 David speaks, “But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.”
In David’s desperate cry for help the Lord saw him through. You and I serve that very same faithful God who guides us, too.
You and I are never alone. Asking for Jesus’ hand of protection over our lives, and for those who are near and dear to us, God becomes our refuge.
When our strength is tested, we know through our discipline of prayer, that our desire to lean into the Holy Spirit will draw us closer and closer to our Omniscient Father one conversation at a time.
Faithfully seeking God, He delights in our presence so we, too, can delight in him.
The more I pray, the more I want to stay in the overwhelming presence of God. I want nothing more than to delight in him as He delights in me.
Remember: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3: 17).
Until next time…
May the Spirit of God lead you, the Word of God sustain you, and the promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.
Love and blessings.
What is it you delight in? Share what’s on your heart, and know that I am holding you all in prayer. Email is sue@faithfirstwomen.com
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Author of Nourish Your Soul: 7 Secrets for Women Seeking Peace
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