August 9, 2023

“I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer. Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings” – Psalm 17:6-8

After 25 years of marriage, my wife and I do a lot of “thinking out loud” with each other. One of us will often talk to the other about what we want, what we’re working on, what we are excited about, or what angers us without expecting the other to do anything about it or even respond. Other times, we are pouring out our hearts to one another, expecting the other to listen intently and with great compassion. And of course, there are times we are talking to the other person because we need them to do something for us; we need their help or their input because we have a problem. Finally, some of our best communication is when we are simply together, not saying a word.

I have often heard pastors says, “prayer is simply talking to God.” I would expand that explanation and say, “prayer is simply being with God.” Sometimes you need to just “think out loud” with God. Sometimes you need to cry out to him and tell him your deepest fears, anger, confusion, or worries, even if they don’t make any sense. Other times you come to him because you need help. And at times you simply need to sit and be aware of his presence, even when you have nothing to say. If you have ever read through the Psalms you can see this is exactly the kind of prayer that is demonstrated there. The real key here is that you need to make sure to set aside time for God, regardless of what the two of you talk about.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for always being available to us, no matter what our current need for loving companionship may be. Help us to set aside the time to be with You so that our relationship can flourish.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon