The process of prayer can resemble the process of pregnancy and birth, says the author of Live a Praying Life. I can identify with that. Having given birth to six babies, and also having had pregnancies with prolonged periods of not feeling well, I know how long and difficult those nine months can feel. But it's all worth it in the end, when finally, I could hold each of our beautiful, precious babies in my arms. All the months of misery were forgotten for the joy of a priceless new child.
But the process was difficult, and even painful. And it seemed at times that the "end" would never come. So it can be with prayer. I am actually in one of those waiting times now ... praying, with tears, for someone I love very much. It's like I'm in labor, and it seems that the time of birth is probably so far off, that it is hard to even imagine.
Jennifer says, "During the process, God is at work in us shaping us into the image of Christ. The process of prayer results in change in us. During the process of prayer, He is fashioning a heart like His."
In Galatians 4:19, Paul says, "Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I'm going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives."
Lord, strengthen us as we labor, with You, in bringing birth that we long for ... Thank You that the joy of birth will be worth all the pain. And in the process, mold my heart to be a reflection of You.
Mom, your prayer life has always inspired me. I love you!
ReplyDeleteSo sweet to see your daughter sharing here on your prayer life--reminds me what a blessing you are and what you write/share out of...6 times! I'm contemplating a 3rd pregnancy/child--and wow! how many thoughts go with this and I was going to share about how we had talked about Galatians 4:19 in church on Sunday and then I saw that you had it in here as well...so much to embrace, thank you!
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