P. R. A. Y. Pause. Reflect. Ask. Yield.Sample

ASK

Stop; breathe; center your thoughts on God. 

Inhale His peace. 

Exhale stress and frustration. 

Yesterday we read that God invites us to ask Him for what we want in prayer. It can seem like our needs and desires are small compared to the hardships, pain, and calamity in our homes, communities, world, and even here, where you are right this moment. God wants to hear from us. In the Bible, we are often told to present ourselves, our wants, and needs to Him. 

Read Philippians 4:6 again. After two days of caring for children (or however you may be serving or ministering in this moment), “present your requests to God” may feel easy (and even necessary!). Or it may feel like your requests are too small to be heard, much less answered. In Matthew, we read that God is a good Father who wants to be sought after and asked. He wants you to find what you seek and to give you good gifts. He wants to hear from you! 

In 1 John we read we can have confidence that God hears us, no matter what we ask, no matter how big or small the request! We are free to tell Him everything, without fear or reservation. 

When a child needs something, it helps the parent to hear it in the child's own words, even if the parent already knows. Communication creates a bond. God wants to hear from us, even if He already knows what we are going to say or ask. 

REFLECTION

What have you learned about prayer and “asking” from these verses?

How have you seen God answer a prayer?

What is something you could ask Him for today, right now?

Keep talking to God. Ask Him for whatever comes to mind just now. Ask specifically and boldly. Ask for yourself, for the children in your care, for the young mothers, for your local YoungLives area or other ministry, and for your family.