Praying Circles

Prayer in it's simplest definition is an honest conversation with God. As we experience in our human conversations, prayer includes both listening and talking.

One way we can practice listening prayer is through Scripture. As you read or listen to the Bible, invite the Holy Spirit to give you understanding and to speak to you. Practice being still and giving your full attention. Even if it's a simple practice of setting a timer for 3 minutes of quiet. Read the passage a second time. Notice what stands out to you and consider what God is telling you. 

Which leads me to another prayer idea... praying circles. We have people, places and situations that are important to us and praying circles is a powerful way of talking with Jesus about them. It's as simple as drawing a circle and writing the name inside of it. Allow that circle to be a tangible way you see God's loving presence encircling the need. It's a practical way to 'cast your cares on Him because he cares for you' (I Peter 5:7) and keep that person or situation in the circle as a physical reminder that they are in God's hands. 

If you're like me, you often pray for others and that is great. Once I was challenged by the Lord to put myself in the circle. I'll admit - at the time it felt like such a challenge to let go of control. I didn't even realize I was so self-reliant! It helped me to learn that he wants to surround me with his love and carry me - to do for me what I couldn't do for myself. All I needed to do was to loosen my grip on control. I dare you to try it. See what God will do. 

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. II Thessalonians 3:16