Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

Laying My Requests Before God

By Guest Blogger November 26, 2010 Devotion

About a month ago, I heard an online sermon that spoke to my heart. The pastor ended his talk with a practical example of laying our requests out before the Lord. He mentioned praying over those we love by using their photos. I loved the idea so much that I spent hours the next day doing just that. But without the photos. Instead I used a pen and paper, my journal, and my Bible.

I wrote my requests out one by one on torn pieces of paper.

My kids.

My marriage.

Blogging.

Friends.

Ministry.

Church.

And numerous other requests.

Then I sat before the Lord and asked Him what He wanted to say about each request. God was faithful. He led me to certain verses and I jotted them down. I journaled my thoughts and questions. I thanked Him for His presence. This intentional time paid off. I felt God’s peace. I was ready to face the day.

So why do I naturally go back to praying my requests without waiting and listening for God’s answer?

Probably because it’s easier.

I’m used to praying and praying and praying. But I’m not used to waiting and listening one request at a time.

The truth is I need God to lead me. Every. Single. Day. With every single prayer request and relationship I have. Not just once a month when I am intentional.

As I write this God reminded me of His Word, “Be still, and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10 (NIV). And this verse, “My sheep listen to my voice ; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NIV).

Father God, thank You for listening and answering my rambling prayers. Teach me to listen intentionally as I lay my requests before You. May I be like Samuel and say, “Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.”(1 Sam. 3:9) I love You, Jesus. Amen


Tiffany @ Tea with Tiffany

4 thoughts on “Laying My Requests Before God”

  1. Iris

    What a neat idea to write out the request on pieces of paper, waiting for God. I too have a hard time to wait on His answers. Thank you for the reminder to stop and wait.

  2. andrea perdue

    I like to write out my requests and date them and then add HIS answers and date them. It is amazing how GOD works and I am more thankful when I see how much HE cares about every detail!

    Blessings,
    andrea

  3. Evelyn Noweder

    What a beautiful idea, and I love your thoughts. I too have trouble waiting and listening. Sometimes it is so hard to break out of the mental/emotional blahs to focus. Thank you for this reminder!!!