Prayer

Here's an old post, it encouraged me today, I hope it does the same for you.

So often lately, I have wrestled with prayer. I have struggled to quiet my heart and focus on the Lord. Then once I have quieted myself, I face the shocking reality that none of my words are worthy to be heard in the Holy of Holies; the Court of the Almighty. Why can't I think of something more original to pray? Why do I always sound so self centered and small-minded? In perspective of the whole world, can my personal needs, and my coworkers afflictions be worthy of presenting? Shouldn't I include all the others as well, with a much more sweeping "Save the lost, protect the weak, fight for the oppressed, and humble the proud"? Wouldn't that be more appropriate, and grand?

And then today, I read a small passage in Elizabeth Elliot's book "Keep a Quiet Heart".

"When I pray I am often preoccupied and distracted, aware that my efforts are feeble and seemingly quite useless, but the thought that those distinguished heroes [found in Hebrews 11] are to be perfected along with me changes the picture altogether and puts a new heart into me. Grand and mysterious things are in operation. We are not alone. My prayers are perhaps a single note in a symphony, but a necessary note, for I believe in the communion of saints. We need each other. The prayers of one affect all. The obedience of one matters infinitely and forever."

(emphasis added)

My prayers are not being heard alone, but rather it is a chorus of voices! I am joining together with all the saints to lift up our lost world to the Throne of Heaven. If I do not lift up my coworkers, who will? People need specific prayers. And the Lord will bless our efforts.

A Little "Peace" of Research

Okay, so a conversation with one of my friends really struck me with an intense curiousity. I wanted to know what people think peace is. I've heard it described through many scriptures and from many pulpits. But when you snag a person in the middle of their crazy day, and ask them to pinpoint what peace is, what do they say? So, I text messages (I love technology) a whole bunch of my friends, ages 15-50, asking them what peace was, and what it looked like in their life. The responses were amazing. I'll let you read them for yourself, ponder them, and then do me a favor and comment with what peace looks like in YOUR life.

(Remember, these responses are coming from all different walks in life. A nice mixture of faiths and belief systems too.

1. Being harmonious, internally and externally. I’ve never experienced it, but yes it’s possible.
2. Shalom. Ask me tomorrow, I don't have the energy to answer you right now.
3. Coming home after a busy day and just being able to relax. No worries.
4. When all people on earth are united in worshipping the one true God and no evil exists on Earth. Also, when I have a problem and I pray asking God for His Holy Spirit to guide me, I have felt peace and a sense of calmness come over me.
5. Lack of Conflict. It’s humanly impossible.
6. Harmony in relationships, a state of tranquility or quiet, freedom from civil unrest. Personally, its letting God take charge of things I can’t control and trusting Him. Seeking to be humble in conflict.
7. Contentment, and a quiet house
8. Happiness. Being happy all the time with no worries.
9. It means internal tranquility and contentment. Wrapped in love and Spirit. Internal conflicts are eased and I am accepting. When problems happen and I’m not bothered. I’m able to genuinely care and help others.
10. It is a feeling that I get when all the drama and stress of life fades into the background and you have a moment of “ah” where everything is perfect. It shows up when I am surrounded by my family or praising God.
11. To me, peace is the calm and comfort inside yourself. Peace in my home is keeping good and healthy company and entertainment.
12. Peace... accompanies nothing so completely as following God's will. It's not a set of emotions, it's a blessing from God for following His commands.
13. To me its when everything is calm and well. Just relaxed without worry. I don't know how we'll find it until we get to Heaven.

So what does peace mean to you?