Slow me down, Lord. I’m going too fast.

Our prayer and meditation this morning comes from Praying Through Cancer by Susan Sorensen. Excerpt written by Marti Odle, Area Director for Community Bible Study.

Teach us to number our days aright, 
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

~ Psalm 90:12

Slow me down, Lord. I’m going too fast. That was my heart’s cry. But life had been so full of the “busies”—all there was to do for the Lord—rather than simply being still in His presence. Was cancer part of the learning God had for me? Is that what it took to slow me down? Those days of quiet rest and radiation enabled me to get in touch with that part of myself that I longed for . . . the “Mary” who chose to sit at the feet of Jesus, basking in His presence, instead of the “Martha” who must always be doing.

What an opportunity to reassess my days, to be reminded that they are just what they need to be for God’s purposes in my life. His plan for me has been unfolding since the beginning; for with God, each moment is an eternal now. Therefore, I have all the time needed to be about His business in a way that will bring Him glory. But that will only happen as I am still before Him, making each moment a moment for eternity.

Prayer for Meditation

Lord, this is the day You have made for me to rejoice and be glad in! I praise You for Your control over everything. Thank You for Your patience when I am acting like Martha, upset about many things. You gently remind me that only one thing is needed. Mary chose it: to sit at Your feet. You promise that this is better than anything and cannot be taken away from me. Truly one day in Your courts is better than thousands elsewhere.

You are my light and salvation—whom shall I fear? You are the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? For in the day of trouble You promise to keep me safe in Your dwelling. You hide me in the shelter of Your tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Thank You for slowing me down so that I am able to experience Your glorious presence!

Scripture for Meditation

Prayer References: Psalm 118:24; Colossians 1:17;

Psalm 84:10; Luke 10:41-42; Psalm 27:1, 5

Music for Meditation

Better Is One Day based on Psalm 84:10 by Chris Tomlin

If you feel led to do so, please post a note of encouragement in the comment section below or send your note by email to PrayersForSally@gmail.com.