Are You Praying for Selfish Reasons?

Photo by Denys Nevozhai on Unsplash

 

Every good act of giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father who made the heavenly lights; with him there is neither variation nor darkness caused by turning.

~ James 1:17, CJB ~

In the Christian life we often speak of the importance of prayer as a spiritual discipline. This ought to call us to a serious reflection. If I am able to pray for things I desire, would they truly bring happiness in my own life? Do I always know exactly what is best for me? Am I merely praying to bargain with my Heavenly Father? Or am I praying to instruct Him in times of struggle and despair?

Mindfulness calls me to a greater awareness of realizing and accepting the reality of not knowing what I truly stand in need of. Only my Heavenly Father knows my heart and my needs. I do not know what may be best for me. This knowledge remains despite all my determined resistance in His hands.

With this awareness and acceptance, our prayers are limited to seek God's guidance and wise counsel. My mindful prayers allow me to become more open and receptive to receive His directions. I'm empowered and strengthened to act upon His counsel.

Through quiet meditation I defer my decisions until my contact with Heavenly Father has brought about certainty the path for me is right. And I pray to keep myself from taking any action, even a little one, that may be intended toward disappointment and potential suffering.

~ Today's Prayer and Meditation ~

Heavenly Father, I seek you with humility and openness to receive your direction and guidance in my life today. I struggle with seeking after those selfish needs and ask that you forgive me and continue to work on my heart and mind to discipline myself in praying mindfully and meditate in order to await your direction and guidance. As I consider the direction I may go, please guide me as await upon you and not lean unto my own understanding and desire. For you know what I stand in need of and direction I shall walk. In Jesus Name, Amen!