After a time of commitment to God’s will and presence, prayer comes to an end. We refocus on our surroundings. The duties of life beckon.
When you prepare to leave your time of prayer, stand up with God. Don’t leave him behind. You’ve invited God into the main room of your mind; now keep that consciousness of his presence. Too often we say, “Amen,” then get up all by ourselves. We finish praying, only to face the world alone, armed with shaky resolutions. We cut off God’s help before we even get started.
When you try to stand up again after prayer, that is when you may realize how wobbly you still are. It takes a while for a sense of strength to develop. Strength develops best as you keep that presence of God with you as you go about your day. Remember, you don’t have to face the world alone. He will help you feel steady and capable of meeting the challenges of life. You may rely on the Spirit to guide you through the difficulties and decisions that lie ahead.
It’s unsettling to move abruptly from the stillness of prayer to the demands of life and the duties that await us. So, take a bit of time to prepare. Soon we will come face to face with the problem we’ve prayed about. Food is everywhere we turn: donuts at the office, candy displays in the checkout line, and fast-food commercials on television. The pressure is on. Consequently, as we stand to meet the challenges of the day, there is a feeling of apprehension. We’ve stumbled so many times before. Is this time going to be any different? Can we really launch a renewed effort to resist temptation?
Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
Psalm 25:4–5a
