It was just a month after High School graduation and my days as a Bible camp counselor didn't have a normal start... I was hired to replace someone mid summer, so I missed the training sessions and prep time that most folks get. I was just in my second week and I was scheduled to do the evening devotion at the campfire. Man was I nervous. I prepped and practiced, but most of all I prayed. The chance to tell so many kids at once about Jesus was great, but also a big responsibility. I knew I couldn't do it alone so it was pray, pray, pray, - before, during and after. God was so good. I could tell they were listening. Everything went very well from the music through the talk and the closing prayer. It felt awesome. I'd lead devotions before in small groups, but this was my first in front of a crowd and I liked it. Beyond that I heard from campers and staff that it was meaningful. God had used me to help them.
Soon it was my turn again. I was pumped. I couldn't wait. I was ready. I was good. What was I worried about last time. I got this. I had not been talking long when I realized I wasn't holding everyone's attention. I got distracted. I repeated myself a few times. I totally lost my place and didn't know what to say next. So I said let's pray, started out "Dear Jesus..." and paused to think. The group of kids said "dear Jesus" in an echo even though I hadn't asked them too. I was confused again. A couple simple lines and an amen and I practically ran from the fire. And then it hit me - There was a whole lot of "I" and zero prayer as I got ready for this one. I had relied so heavily on Him the first time and went off totally on my own the next.
It was a mistake I have very seldom repeated as I continue to lead devotions or worship, or even when I write. But God continues to teach. As I listened to a message on prayer recently I was reminded of this story and realized I've applied it well to sharing spiritual things, but why would I want to go into anything without praying first and putting complete reliance on God? Have to get a project done? Pray. Have to lead a meeting at work? Pray. Have to get out of bed in the morning? Pray. Have to drive safely to the store? Pray. You get the idea? Big or small, major event or daily activity - why would we want to do anything without praying first: talking with God about what's coming, thanking Him for being there, and asking Him to bless us and use us?
Don't forget to pray.
Follow Jesus, Lead Your Family
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6 NIV
留言