“But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord,
I wait for God my savior, my God will hear me.” Micah 7:7
Prayer—a soul hunger,
born on a limb,
because I dared obey a Voice.
God has been teaching me that words don’t have to accompany prayer. Sometimes I pray in silence, absorbed by a desire to get close enough to feel His heart beat. But other times, I hear myself chattering on, emptying my grocery bag of requests, quite impressed in fact with the length and profundity of my entreaties. To be honest, after those times, I don’t feel any closer to His heart. That’s because as Dietrich Bonhoeffer put it, “we have heard only ourselves…’
Words normally build intimacy in relationships, because they define feelings and commitment. But with God, who sees right through us, words are not a necessary reinforcement. Are you saying words have no place in prayer? No, not at all. But sometimes He leads us to wait, with a singular focus at attempting to discern His voice. He is pleased by our quiet desperate posture of silence. In fact, at times like these words may even get in the way. Isaiah 30:15 says, “In quietness and trust is your strength.”
So, how do we know if words are getting in the way, or building intimacy?
First, humility will mark our approach. The meek Lamb of God indwells us, and so being filled with Him leaves pride at the threshold.
Second, a peace settles over our heart. We are not rushed, pushed by agenda, or pulled by deadlines. It could be the only time in our day where pure rest happens.
Third, we will listen more than speak. Self test: If I am talking more than half the time, I am speaking twice as much as needed.
Finally, we will leave determined to live holy. True prayer will always leave us hungry to please God, and stronger to obey. It acts like a trickle charge to our spiritual batteries.
Lord, teach me how to watch, to hope and to wait. You will hear me, when I cry from my heart.
