Getting Distracted in Prayer

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chasing monkeys while praying, disctractions in prayer, do you get distracted while praying, encouragement in prayer, how should i pray, how to be focused in prayer, prayer, prayer time, why do I get distracted in prayer

Ephesians 6:18 says, “Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.”

When I’ve read this verse in the past, I’ve assumed that the perseverance mentioned is referring to making intercession for the saints. What I’m realizing now, at least for me, is that perseverance is referring to staying alert during prayer.

I’ve always chased a few monkeys in prayer time, but lately it’s been ridiculous. I’m starting well, but then all of the sudden I’m thinking about writing, running, yesterday, tomorrow… you get the idea. I’ll startle back to the fact that I’m supposed to be in prayer and hunker down again only to realize a few minutes later my mind has headed in yet another direction.

As I began to think back to a time where I was more focused during prayer, I realized I needed to pray OUT LOUD. I guess I thought I was a “mature enough” Christian to be focused in silent praying, but I’m not.

I also realized that I need a list. I don’t mechanically go through my list every day, but if I’m struggling, it does help me to focus a little easier.

My list also helps me to remember to faithfully pray for family, church, and more. Otherwise, I can go several days without praying for things I truly meant to be in prayer about.

I heard John Ortberg say once that the monkeys that we often chase during prayer time can indicate what God wants us to pray for. I do stay aware of that and ask often whether that’s the case, but praying versus planning is totally different and I need some help praying. I seem to have the planning part down.

So, how am I choosing to stay alert during prayer?

I am definitely implementing praying out loud.

I’m sticking to a set time and I do have a list.

How are you choosing to stay alert in prayer?

If you have something that works for you, I would love to know. Sharing what works for each other is how we grow and I need some growth, people. Help a girl out. 😊

*image by cottonwood.org

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Praises

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declaring truth, encouragement, God's goodness, how to declare truth, praising God, praising the Lord, testifying, testifying of the Lords goodness, the goodness of God, truth

Psalm 150 verse 6 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!”

So many times I am guilty of reading a verse of Scripture, thinking what a great idea it is, but then falling short of implementing it.

Psalm 150:6 invites everything that has breath to praise the Lord. So today, instead of reading through Scripture and thinking it’s a good idea, let’s take a moment and actually do it.

Father, I praise You today for Your awesome greatness. There is no one like You. You formed every planet and creature with only Your word. You formed mankind out of dust and breathed into him the breath of life. You are Creator and I praise You.

Father, I praise You today for Your kindness. You sent Your only Son to live among us and sacrifice Himself for us on the Cross. Your Word tells us that Your kindness leads us to repentance and I praise You today that no kindness is greater than Yours.

Father, I praise You today for Your healing power. Whether You choose to heal on this planet, or in eternity is not the point, but the fact that there is hope in You is why I give You praise today. You are the Great Physician and I praise You that nothing is beyond Your ability. We always have hope in You. You are the Great Healer of all and I praise You today.

Father, I praise You for Your power. I thank You for leaving Your Holy Spirit with us to empower us with the same strength that raised Jesus from the dead. Nothing is too difficult for Thee and we look to You for the ability to run through troops and leap over walls (Psalm 18:29).

Father, I praise You today for Your unbridled love of us. You never let go. You never give up. You are the Great Shepherd that cradles the lost sheep in His arms. You are the Great Defender of the lambs and Protector of our souls. Nothing can strip us from Your hand (John 10:28-29). I praise You today that we are safe and secure in Your arms.

Father, I give you praise today and ask You to remind me to praise You daily in the way in which You deserve. Let every breath I take breathe out praise to You.

You alone are holy.

You alone are God and I choose to praise You today.

Seeking Hearts Ministries

*image by myocn.net