If you’re a prayer warrior, you’re extra awesome.
I’m just not.
Some of us are just called to it more than others.
Yes, I know what the Bible says about prayer.
And I do pray. Probably much less than you do. And I think it’s ok.
I’m tired of beating myself up.
I “forget.” I’m tired of seeing the bragging of prayer lists and journals and images of all the people you’re praying for. If you say you’re randomly praying for me, how exactly do you know what I need? What if you’re praying for the opposite of what I want or what God’s will is?
You’re great and I’m just not.
I’m tired of that twinge of guilt every single time I see a prayer request on social media. I think it’s super you reach out to your five gazillion social media “friends” to ask for much-needed prayer for your particular anxiety. You’re so open and transparent. I’m not being sarcastic. (Not much.)
And I’m just not that open.
And I just don’t have time nor desire to pray for
- your missing keys.
- your doctor’s appointment.
- your son’s trip to the dentist.
- your business meeting.
- your husband’s interview.
- your neighbor’s health issues.
- your grandma in hospice.
Or the plethora of other issues that I’m so, so sorry you and your loved ones are experiencing.
When you post a praise, I gladly rejoice with you.
I “like” it. That’s prayer too, you know. And I see it all too seldom.
Does a quick glance up towards the heavens count as a prayer? Cuz that’s all I may attempt as I keep scrolling through my newsfeed. [Insert advice about how I could be praying instead of trolling Facebook here.]
I’m trying to prioritize my time.
Really I am. Praying for you isn’t even on the list, sorry. I have my family first.
I wonder how many people who say they pray really do.
At least I’m honest.
“And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?
“Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace. Matthew 6:5-6 MSG
And I do know prayer warriors and they’re the ones I turn to when I have a real need. Cuz I know they care. I email or message them with a concern. Facebook doesn’t care. All the gazillions of “friends” on that newsfeed don’t care, most of whom aren’t even Christian. I don’t want healing light or colored crystals or positive thoughts or any of that new age garbage.
Some days it’s all I can do to read a quick morning devo, say mealtime blessings and bedtime prayers with my children.
My praying unceasingly is often more groans and mumblings that I can make it through the day with no one injuring herself or himself.
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