Prayer

"With every prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit,
and to this end be alert, with all perseverance and requests for all the saints."
Ephesians 6:18

Prayer comes in many forms.

From the time I was a child, I was taught:

"Now I lay me down to sleep,
the Lord I pray my soul to keep.
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take
Amen"

I've taught both of my children to pray that same prayer somewhat changing the last two lines to
"may angels watch me through the night, and keep me in their blessed sight"

Regardless of how it is finished, it's a prayer to God that I wanted my children to learn.

As Ryan has gotten older, he has started his own prayers, and I usually finish them at night. It is sweet to hear him talk to God in his own way. But what's even better is the example he has set for his little brother, Alex. Even now on some nights Alex will begin his prayers with, "Thank you God for this day......" The first time it popped out of his mouth tears were flowing. I know he doesn't completely understand the importance of what he is saying, but I know it won't be long and he will. For that I am truly grateful.

As I got older I began to pray differently. Being raised in a Baptist church a lot of the prayers are the same and you could always tell what was going to be said and when they were about to be wrapped up (thank heavens some times).

But a few years ago I began seeing prayer in a different way. Not just as a few repetitious words, but as a conversation. It was a time for me to pour out my heart and let God have it ALL. To be grateful and thankful, but also repentant and ask for forgiveness. We are sinners remember....

And I pray often, throughout the day. For my family, friends, and even for my patients. Some that are just depressed for long days in the hospital or those that are sick. For those that have lost children, or the baby is not well. I've even prayed with patients before they go back for a c-section if they request. Or if the family is praying, I don't leave. I love my God and what he can do through prayer.

That being said, I have a special prayer request today. I have a friend far away that has a very sick child. He has been in and out of the hospital and right now the reason for his sickness is unknown. I want to you to pray for him, for his parents as they see their child struggle, and for the doctors and nurses that are caring for him. Pray that there will be answers and they can all get some rest, knowing God is taking care of them.

God, you know their needs. Please hold them tightly and give them peace and rest. Amen

Thank you for your prayers,
Renee