PRAYING OR THINKING

Praying or Thinking

Jane H. Young

You’re in church and the pastor says, “Let’s join together in prayer for our brother Jim; he’s having surgery in the morning.” 

Now here’s the question: while everyone is praying to God, where are you at? 

Are you focused on God in his presence—or are you thinking about where you are going for lunch when church is over?

Praying is more than words thrown in God's direction. 

For instance, both praying and asking a question require your full attention in order to receive the answer to what you have asked. 

If you ask a question you usually wait for the answer, or at least a response. 

If you pray, shouldn’t you stay alert and expect an answer as well?

I was praying one morning about an event I’d be attending that evening. 

My prayer was that the actions and words spoken would be pleasing to God. 

But the whole time I prayed my thoughts were on what I was going to wear—sad but true. 

I wasn’t really spending time with God, or seeking direction on how God would want me to contribute to the evening — I was spending time in my closet thinking about what I should wear so I’d look good.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving,” (Colossians 4:2 NASB).

We need to go before God with our minds focused on our time spent together with Him. 

If you find your thoughts have strayed, recognize it and bring your mind back to Him. 

You’ll have plenty of time to think of other things later. Treasure your time with God, and make it meaningful and special. 

Don’t only pray, but take time to listen and rest in His peace.

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,” (Ephesians 1:18 NASB).

Jane has a heart for serving God and making a difference in the lives of others. Contact