Saturday, October 11, 2014

By: Rebecca Landry

Prayer Walk Reflections: Part Two

 Love Thy Neighbor ... Does That Mean ALL of Them??

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Recently our church participated in weekly prayer walks as part of our 21 days of prayer. We walked around different neighborhoods praying for whatever came to mind. The first route happened to be my own neighborhood. As I walked past houses I see all the time, I realized what a critical attitude I often have. Going in with the mission of prayer gave me a new perspective.

 Instead of griping about the house that NEVER seems to have the grass cut, I prayed for the owner's circumstances ... whether it be that he or she is caring for a sick family member and regular chores have been put on the back burner OR maybe suffering from depression and can't find the strength to even get out of bed.

 I looked at the things I found bothersome and recognized that there are always underlying needs that can be brought to God, EVEN if I don't know what those specific needs are! 

 The endless political yard signs I once saw as clutter made me realize that I should be praying for wisdom for the voters and that the right people are put in office. Not rolling my eyes at a cheesy slogan but praying that God makes them people of integrity.

 For the house with the paint job that stopped half-way through a year ago, oh wait, that's MY house. Lord, PLEASE give us good weather and a motivated husband to finish painting our house!

 I realized that the things that bother me the most are the things I need to pray for the most. While walking, I literally prayed for EVERYTHING I saw. It did something to my attitude. I saw through the petty things that bug me to the people behind those things. The real people with hurts and needs and dreams.

 I challenge you to start a new policy of "If it bothers me, PRAY for it!" You'll be surprised how your outlook will change!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.

Reflection:  Is it easier for you to pray for the people you like rather than the ones who bother you?