Do You Want God To Just Show Up?
When men talk with God, most resort to asking him for things. And I think this is noteworthy because it demonstrates faith that we believe God will answer. At the same time, only asking him for things is not the only thing that should transpire in our time of prayer with God.
So backing up where we left off, Daniel is praying. He's concluding a three-week prayer and fast retreat with a small group of men. He is nestled along the Tigris river. Then God gives him a vision of this amazing-looking man. The vision is so powerful that even though he's the only one who sees it, the other men with him experience the effect of it and then run and hide. And that's where we pick up today. Verses 8-9 read:
So I was left alone and saw this great vision, and no strength was left in me. My radiant appearance was fearfully changed, and I retained no strength. Then I heard the sound of his words, and as I heard the sound of his words, I fell on my face in deep sleep with my face to the ground. — Daniel 10:8-9
Do you see what happened during Daniel's time of prayer and fasting? Daniel had a supernatural experience. God presented a vision so powerful to Daniel that he saw it, heard it, and felt it. But it was also so powerful it affected Daniel's appearance, strength, and coherence.
Gentlemen, our faith in God assumes that we believe in a supernatural God that can do supernatural things. Our God can break into time and space anytime he wants. So when we come to prayer, it's not just about asking God for things. Prayer is not a transaction, like driving through the drive-through at a fast-food restaurant. Prayer is a divine experience with the God of all creation, who sometimes will show us some things. And if we are paying attention and not so busy with our lists and the things we are asking him to do, maybe we too would see, hear, and feel the presence of the Almighty God and be affected by who he is, not just what he can do for us.
So this week, as you are praying, ask God for something. But don't stop there. Sit for a moment. Slow down. Listen. Wait. Linger. Discover the God of the universe who does more than listen to requests. Be present with God because he wants to be present to you.
ASK THIS: Are you only asking God to do things?
DO THIS: Ask God for the things you need, but wait, listen, and just be with God.
PRAY THIS: God, come and be with me today. I don't need anything but you.
PLAY THIS: In Your Presence.
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God thank you for your grace, mercy, and blessings.
God, come and be with me today. I don’t need anything but you.
Amen
Word Vince! I find myself spending more time going deeper and trusting in Yeshua. In such a time as this we need to spend more time listening and waiting all in His presence. I also think that when we pray sometimes, don’t ask for anything, but instead ask God what it is that He may require of us.
While intercessory prayer and prayers of repentance are important, what God wants to say to us in prayer is more important than what we have to say.
Amen! The Lord’s prayer is a great pattern fir prayer.