May innocence and uprightness protect me; for my hope is in you, O Lord. (Psalm 25:21)
The other morning, I must have been reading my devotional book too quickly and without full attention because I read the above passage as, may innocence and asparagus protect me. What? Asparagus? Where did that come from? I don’t even really like asparagus!
It is crazy how often my mind wanders when I am praying. My guess is that this happens to you too. So, what can we do to be more attentive at prayer?
First, in the beginning of prayer we should ask God for help and guidance. The author of Romans tells us that “the Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought” (Romans 8:26). Next, we should be mindful throughout our day of what we are thinking about, watching and reading. Having our hearts and minds set on the things of God all though the day will help us to be more attentive during times of prayer. Proverbs tells us that “with all vigilance guard your heart, for in it are the sources of life” (Proverbs 4:23) and Paul reminds us that “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious…think about these things (Philippians 4:8). Lastly, I offer that we just need to keep trying and never give up. Paul encourages us to “stay alert and persistent in your prayers” (Ephesians 6:18).
So, if you are like me and struggle with attentiveness at prayer, try the aforementioned suggestions. Share with me how it goes. And, if you have any good asparagus recipes you can share them, too!
