QUESTION: I've been going through a very difficult time in my life. Both of my parents have been ill and my husband was laid off from his job over the summer. I have a friend who keeps telling me to "just pray" about all of this. I feel very out of touch with my own Spirit. I don't come from a religious family and I have no idea how to truly pray in a way that can provide sustenance through this time in my life. Can you help? - "Karen" ANSWER:
Dear Karen:
Someone once said that prayer is when we talk to God and intuition is one of the ways He answers. Prayer connects us to the invisible intelligence that is hard-wired to our soul. Philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "Prayer is the contemplation of the facts of life from the highest point of view." How do you view prayer, and how can you use it to receive the insight and guidance you desire?
I have learned that when I talk to God, He answers. It isn't a booming voice out of the clouds. He answers through the still, small voice of intuition. I have learned to ask for help whenever I struggle with fear, anxiety, anger, or any of the minor and major upsets of life.
The answers come in a variety of ways. My problems are not usually instantly "fixed." Sometimes an answer arrives in a fleeting thought, -- "Maybe I could try this...." On other occasions I might be drawn to a book that has the answers I seek. Many times the response to my prayers gives a boost to my confidence when I most need it.
Whether your concerns are about ill parents, an out-of-work husband, dealing with a difficult relationship or struggling with a health crisis, prayer and the resulting guidance you receive can be a balm for your soul. Let God know about whatever is on your mind. It doesn't need to be formal. It's like a conversation with your best friend.
What is on your mind is important, however trivial it may seem. Ask for help, for insight, for peace, for strength or whatever you most deeply desire. You always have access to this inner wisdom, although sometimes it takes practice and silence to learn to listen and understand. Prayer opens your mind to new opportunities.
When you pray you are reaching for a Power that is wiser than you. It is the force that created the universe and directs the sun to rise every morning and to set every night. Wouldn't you rather put your faith in this power to help you resolve your issues rather than the "little you" of your logical, rational mind? I believe God sees the totality of who you are and what you are here to learn and knows the most direct way for you to create your heart's desire.
Prayers don't necessarily need to be formal occasions where you set aside half an hour or more. When you find yourself in an anxious state, say a brief prayer. Close your eyes and imagine you are in conscious contact with God. (Don't worry. You can't do this wrong.) Here are some phrases that might help:
"I am open and receptive to Your wisdom and insight."
"I ask for your love and guidance for my husband. Help him to be led to the right job."
"Guide me to vibrant health."
"Show me how to help my parents."
When you wake up in the morning, before you go to bed at night, and any time during the day, simply pause to pray. The Universal Wisdom that is God is available in every moment. Feel your divine connection when you stop for a traffic light or while drinking your morning coffee.
Meister Eckhart stated, "If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough." Say a prayer of thanks each day for what you DO have. As you focus on gratitude your life will flow with all that you need.
I'll write more on this topic in my blog this month. Check back in at http://lynnrobinson.com.
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