This morning I awakened very early - partly because of stress. This is because one of my tendencies is to work better under pressure. Unfortunately I often artificially induce said pressure by not working on a project until close to the deadline, SHAZAAM - instant pressure. Today's project got an extra shot of pressure due to a computer program glitch - the license on a particular program had expired and I was not allowed access to the program for 2 weeks.
Anyway, as I was getting ready for the day I realized that there were some papers somewhere in my bedroom that I could really use. Given my outstanding organizational skills (*this is sarcasm*) I suspected that there was no way I could lay my hands on those papers and get myself together and out the door in any reasonable amount of time. At this point I breathed what I like to call "a prayer of frustration." It went something like this:
You know, God, it would be great if I could just find those papers. Of course, it would also be great if I were to discover some depth of organizational ablility in my life. As you are probably aware, this is a big ongoing struggle of mine. Clearly I'm not capable of keeping myself together. I would love it if You would just take over that area - also if You would help me to let You take over that area - also if You would help me not beat myself up about the fact that this is a weakness.
During/after this little conversation I looked down at a pile of papers on my floor. I reached down and moved the top of one pile and immediately put my hands on exactly the papers that I wanted.
Theologically, I don't think that answering little prayers for finding things is big on God's list. I know that He knows all and cares about all but I sort of figure that His concern is more about my spiritual life and growth and not whether I find my lost keys or whatever. At the same time, I have heard many people comment on moments when God answers "silly" prayers like that. Some people suggest that they are a way that God reassures us that we are on the right track and that He cares. Certainly we are prone to doubting ourselves about life, our path, etc. Regular reassurance is pretty much a necessity.
It certainly worked this morning --
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