During prayer we often approach God and ask Him to help us change in some way. For example, we may say such things as: “God help to me to be more patient; help me to be more kind; compassionate; etc…” But, then that’s the end of it. We think that the prayer has been left in God’s hands; and so there is nothing left to do about it. We think that somehow we are going to wake up one day & automatically find ourselves a more patient or loving person.

But, God is not going to wave a magic wand and change us over night. The way He is going to answer these prayers is by bringing situations & experiences into our lives that are going to give us opportunities to act, respond, and cultivate what we are asking for. For, what prayers such as these do is petition God for experiences where we can learn to express such traits.

.ads in wordpress

We must understand that after the prayers are said there is still work for us to do. God is going to help us by giving us opportunities and strength; but we are the ones who still must do the changing. And know that it can take weeks, months, and even years of experiences to change our deeply ingrained habits and ways; so be persistent in your efforts and patient with yourself.

And please, don’t think that I am saying to stop praying for these types of changes to occur in you. Rather, keep them coming; for prayers which ask God to help us be more patient, compassionate, kind, peaceful, etc… help to keep us mindful of the things we wish to change and work on, in our lives. But, what I am telling you is that after you pray for whatever it is you seek; you have to be consciously looking out for the experiences and events that God is bringing upon you in order for you to grow in these ways.

If you are praying for patience you are going to notice that a lot more frustrating events and situations will be appearing in your life; but again, the truth is that these experiences are answers to your prayers. Therefore, thank Him for the opportunities He’s giving you to express and cultivate the patience you are asking for. We can’t be more patient if we aren’t given the chance to practice patience. And we can’t become more compassionate, kind, or peaceful unless we are provided with experiences to act in such ways.

Therefore, “pray with ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) for what you want to change, but be aware that your prayers might be answered in ways & experiences you are not expecting. So, keep your eyes open and take action. Make use of the opportunities that God is bring to you so that you can work on yourself.

God bless you on your journey. And remember to always – Heed the Spirit,

Anthony