“All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name.  For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God.” Psalm 86:9-10

Purposeful Prayer

On my recent visit with Floyd, I sang some songs to him. I lifted my hands in worship as I sang—and Floyd slowly lifted his arm with me. He hasn’t done that in a while. I was moved to see his effort to join me in worship. Our worship was simple, but I couldn’t help but think that God would be blessed to receive our simplicity of worship as it flowed from our hearts. We both cried as we thanked God for His goodness and faithfulness to us.

It’s always hard to leave Floyd. I hate that he’s on his own so much. I know it must be so hard for him in his “silent” world. I stay as long as my strength allows.

It was rather emotional for me when I came home, thinking about all this. God tenderly ministered to my heart as I poured out my cares to Him. I repeatedly spoke out my trust, and my need of Him. I felt He kept reassuring me that He is at work in our lives and in this situation, even if I can’t see it or understand it. I just need to keep my hand in His as I walk this journey.

Shortly afterwards I got an email from a friend. He told me how Floyd had ministered to him shortly before he became ill. The “fruit” of that time continues on in some wonderful ways. It was a sweet encouragement to my heart.

Someone shared this quote with our prayer group a couple days ago: “Thanksgiving is our response to His actions, praise is our response to His character, and worship is our response to His presence.” – Kris Vallotton

I loved that description of the prayers we lift to the Lord! It helped me be more purposeful in what I’m speaking out to Him. I’m thankful for how He has sustained me on this journey. I praise Him for His faithfulness. And I worship Him for ministering so sweetly to my heart. God is so very good!

“Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods” (Psalm 95:2-3).

 “Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable” (Psalm 145:3).

Whether it’s thanksgiving, praise, or worship—He is so worthy!

“Lord, may we never utter repetitive, meaningless words in prayer to You, for You are worthy of all our focus and attention. We love You. Amen.”