But I, O LORD, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.
Psalm 88:13
What is your daily practice of prayer? I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately in light of the grief I feel in response to so much evil seen in the headlines. Things like these send me back to that secret place of prayer to find the Lord and seek the comfort, grace and encouragement I need to face the world’s chaos. What a comfort to know that I have His help when I need it! And yet, what should I say as I enter His faithful presence in prayer?
Over the years I have collected a number of prayers that help me when I don’t know what to say. And yes, it can be a good thing to pray what other saints have prayed before. It is not “vain repetition” when you echo their words from the depths of your own heart. I think that’s why so many prayers are written for us in the Bible in places like the Psalm (many of which are David’s prayers), and in the prayers of Paul and Nehemiah and Ezra and so many of the prophets. So I became a collector of prayers offered by faithful saints of the past. Such prayers help me – by the help of the Holy Spirit – to pray when my heart is dull and I don’t know what to say.
Years ago, I ran across a prayer by the late Pastor/Theologian John Stott that he liked to use to start each day. I’ve recommended it before and do so again. It is Trinitarian in form as it addresses each Person of the Trinity. It is humble as it seeks God’s help. And, as you read it and make it your own, you’ll find that it is very biblical as well. Let this prayer become your prayer.
“Heavenly Father, I pray that this day I may live in your presence and please you more and more. Lord Jesus, I pray that this day I may take up my cross and follow you. Holy Spirit, I pray that this day you will fill me with yourself and cause your fruit to ripen in my life: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
Praying in Hope despite the darkness!
Pastor Scott