Where we are - The Upper Room (September 16, 2018)

Thursday, September 20, 2018

* I had the honor of having a devotional published in The Upper Room. I hope you enjoy it!

When you search for me, you will find me; 
if you seek me with all your heart. - Jeremiah 29:13 (NRSV)
My prayer life shifted when my husband, Zeke, and I had three children in four years. I learned to pray while washing dishes and on my way to the store. Most of those prayers were as simple as, “Help!” and faithfully, God heard each one of them. Even simple prayers are powerful because God meets us where we are.
I can see this in the life of Susanna Wesley, who raised 19 children. Two of those children were John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, and Charles Wesley, a powerful evangelist and amazing hymn writer. Living in the 1600s, Susanna homeschooled, cooked, and did everything in between. But Susanna was determined to include time with God in her busy schedule. The same God who met Susanna in her busy life will meet each of us wherever we are.
Even someone who has never experienced little kids running around the house daily knows what it is to live a hectic life. No matter how busy our schedules, God knows where we are and can meet us there through prayer. God cares about what concerns us and wants to hear about what’s filling our hearts and minds — right now. Each day, we can all resolve to set aside some time to connect with God through prayer.
TODAY'S PRAYER
Loving God, thank you for listening to our prayers. As we search for you, may we be enveloped by your amazing love. Amen.
TODAY'S READING
Jeremiah 29:12-14 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God is near me — “a very present help” (Ps. 46:1, KJV) every day.
PRAYER FOCUS
Mothers of small children