The Sacred Practice of Paying Attention
Taylor Joy Murray
“Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD.” Psalm 107:43 (NIV)
“The women said to Naomi, ‘Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you without a family redeemer today. May his name become well known in Israel.’” Ruth 4:14 (CSB)
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 (CSB)
Heavenly Father, I confess that sometimes I forget to remember Your faithfulness from the past, especially when I am overwhelmed with unpredictable things today. Keep reminding me, as I walk through this new day, that You not only see me but You love me. I don’t know exactly what tomorrow will look like, but I do know who I’ll be looking to — You, Lord. Your love is unfailing, and in Your hand is the safest place to rest my hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end …” Lamentations 3:21-22 (ESV)
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7 (NLT)
“so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 (NIV)
“‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Nathanael asked him.” John 1:46a (CSB)
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
“I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope …” Psalm 130:5 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, the days feel long, and weariness has begun to settle in. In the places where I’m depleted, lacking, exhausted, foggy, and worn down, would You bring rest and restoration? Clear my mind and heart from any heaviness I’m carrying. Release me from any pressure I’m putting on myself. By Your power and Your strength, be my portion to fill any gaps where I find myself falling short or falling behind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD.” Psalm 107:43 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, poured out with love and power on Pentecost. Fill our hearts anew with Your presence, guiding us in truth, courage, and compassion...
“and I will ask the Father, and he will give you another comforting Counselor like me, the Spirit of Truth, to be with you forever.” John 14:16 (CJB)
“In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.” Psalm 18:6 (NIV)