A Prayer

Things have been happening in my life lately, some are joyous, others are terrifying. Through it all, I try to find God's plan in all that is placed before me.

When we were searching for a house I got discouraged many times but at my worst, I lifted my problems to God, knowing he had a plan for me and my family. Sure enough as soon as I gave in, admitted I had been asking for too much, and put my full faith in Him, God provided us with everything we needed and a few things we wanted.

I believe God put challenges in our paths to test us and show us He is here, if we'll only listen. People wonder, "Why did this happen to me?" Maybe God has a plan for everything He lets happen. Maybe a family member dies, maybe you lose a job, maybe someone you love gets cancer. He has a purpose. You have something to learn from every experience and maybe He is testing you whether you'll run to Him or run away. My advice? Run. Run to Him. Run with such a passion, as if your life depended on it.

I also believe if God doesn't answer your prayers, He has something else in mind. Or maybe your asking for the wrong reason. I know I have, but I've also had my prayers answered. Once I prayed during a long day of wild fires breaking out all over Oklahoma. The news kept saying the firefighters were worn out and if only the wind would slow down they could have a chance of getting ahead of the burn line and get it under control. I proceeded to pray for the wind to slow. To slow even just a little. I pleaded with God, I was scared. I asked him to slow the wind to help the firefighters, who were exhausted, they needed His help. Within seconds of sending out my prayer, the news anchor come on and said the wind speed dropped!! Don't get me wrong I've asked for many things and they were not answered, not even close. Yes, I was disappointed. But I realized He must have something else in mind for me. And He did.

God listens and God reacts. God challenges but He also holds us up when we need Him the most.

I do NOT believe God punishes people. I do not think He just ignores us and therefore bad things happen. He has a plan. He might be standing by letting something "bad" happen, but I believe the whole time He is watching us closely seeing what we will do.

Run. Run to Him. He will save you. He will teach you through each of your experiences even if they seem horrible, scary, or life threatening.

TRUST, LISTEN, PRAY.

God, I ask you to be with us throughout our days, just walk with us every step we take. I ask you to guide me and those around me on the paths you want us to take. Remind us that you are here. Surprise us when we need you most. God, I love you, I want to serve you every day of my life. Show me the way. I also ask for you to heal my step-mom, Allison. Keep faith, and hope alive in her and all those who surround her. Lay your hands on her right now, and help her through this trying time, she needs you. We all need you. I pray that you keep her and my dad strong through all of this. It might not be an easy road ahead but help us keep our eyes on you. I thank you for all the blessings you've given me. Thank you for giving me just what I need, even if I ask for more. God, please forgive me of my sins. I know I make mistakes daily, and I'm sorry for them, please forgive me so I can spend eternity with you. In Jesus' Name I Pray, AMEN.