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Photo by joseph d’mello on Unsplash

This Fall, we are studying the book A PRAYING LIFE: Connecting with GOD in a Distracting World by Paul E. Miller.  I have read it before and even studied it with other groups.  However there are things that I am finding so helpful to me now that I never even noticed before!

One thing is the importance of the simple prayers.  You know, those times when we are desperate!  We know we need GOD’s help but often can’t even put into words what we even want to ask, we just know we need HIM…NOW!

One such prayer is when we become aware of how sinful we are, often in the face of failure…and we cry out for mercy!  GOD, have mercy on me!

Another prayer that is often profound in its simplicity is Psalm 23.  Today, I’m not going to go into details with you as to why, but just read it over.  One exercise that was suggested was to take the Shepherd and His ministrations out of the Psalm and see what you have left.  It is very interesting.

Another exercise is to read it over and start praying it.  I’ll put the Psalm up for you.  You may want to check out Biblegateway.com to read it in other versions.

 

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
    He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

 You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

Psalm 23