There are seasons in every believer’s life when our prayers seem smaller than they should. The words don’t arrive. The mind is distracted. Shame has become paralyzing. The heart is hard. We wonder if something is wrong with us — or worse, that God is not listening.
But Scripture offers us examples of small prayers and petitions. The tax collector in Luke 18:13, simply said, “God, be mericiful to me, a sinner.” The father of a demon-possessed son in Mark 9:24 exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” And the thief who hung next to Jesus, as told in Luke 23:42, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” While brief, each request was heard. Each one mattered.
If you’re in a season where your prayer or crying may seem insufficient, here are three things to hold onto:
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- Honesty is more valuable than eloquence. God isn’t impressed with rehearsed language. He’s drawn to honest hearts.
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- The Spirit prays when you can’t. Romans 8:26-27, tells us, “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Our weakness is not a barrier — it’s an invitation.
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- Showing up is the first step. A few short words can be more than enough. God is pleased that you are drawing near. Never underestimate the power of presence over performance.
Whatever you bring this week — even if it’s a word or two — offer them. The Lord is waiting.
– Community First COG Administration