~ Trash Prayers ~
Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2011 2:00 pm 1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
Paul wrote, “I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgivings be offered to God for all people.” 1 Timothy 2:1 (TEV)
Walking is my favorite exercise, both physical and spiritual. While walking I can talk to God and give thanks for my health that allows me to take this walk, for a wonderful job that still leaves enough time each day for a walk, for the motivation to spend that time walking, and for … trash.
Trash has changed my way of thinking. Not long ago, I saw trash only as an eyesore on the lovely green grass or the freshly fallen snow. I saw only how it interrupted my walk because of my having to stop and pick it up and carry it to a trash can. One day after stretching to reach a discarded beer can, I thought of persons who struggle with alcohol addiction and prayed that God would heal them. As I picked up a fast-food restaurant wrapper, I prayed for persons who don't have enough to eat or who need to learn to eat more healthfully. An empty diaper box reminded me of young parents who may be struggling to hold their family together, and I prayed for God's strength to uphold them.
With each piece of trash, I became aware of new persons and their needs. I have become grateful for the way God shows us where we can serve. I still wish those who throw out trash would learn that God's beautiful world is not a garbage dump. But I will continue to use their trash as reminders to pray for them and others.
Prayer: Keeper of our souls, thank you for knowing us intimately and for speaking to use in ways you know we will hear. Amen.
Prayer Focus of Day: Garbage and Recycling Workers
Thought for the Day: Clean up a section of road or land near you, praying as you work.
Story shared by: P. Herring (OH)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 8/31/11
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
Paul wrote, “I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgivings be offered to God for all people.” 1 Timothy 2:1 (TEV)
Walking is my favorite exercise, both physical and spiritual. While walking I can talk to God and give thanks for my health that allows me to take this walk, for a wonderful job that still leaves enough time each day for a walk, for the motivation to spend that time walking, and for … trash.
Trash has changed my way of thinking. Not long ago, I saw trash only as an eyesore on the lovely green grass or the freshly fallen snow. I saw only how it interrupted my walk because of my having to stop and pick it up and carry it to a trash can. One day after stretching to reach a discarded beer can, I thought of persons who struggle with alcohol addiction and prayed that God would heal them. As I picked up a fast-food restaurant wrapper, I prayed for persons who don't have enough to eat or who need to learn to eat more healthfully. An empty diaper box reminded me of young parents who may be struggling to hold their family together, and I prayed for God's strength to uphold them.
With each piece of trash, I became aware of new persons and their needs. I have become grateful for the way God shows us where we can serve. I still wish those who throw out trash would learn that God's beautiful world is not a garbage dump. But I will continue to use their trash as reminders to pray for them and others.
Prayer: Keeper of our souls, thank you for knowing us intimately and for speaking to use in ways you know we will hear. Amen.
Prayer Focus of Day: Garbage and Recycling Workers
Thought for the Day: Clean up a section of road or land near you, praying as you work.
Story shared by: P. Herring (OH)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 8/31/11