First, I love the visual of using a scale in regards to a balanced prayer life. One side of the scale represents how much I think, talk, worry, stress, complain, and/or cry about a pressing topic. The other side of the scale represents how much I pray, praise, offer thanksgiving, and surrender to God. If the "me" side of the scale outweighs the "He" side of the scale then obviously my process of working through an issue is out of balance. My communication with the Lord should always outweigh my efforts at handling things on my own.
This scale visual has been a constant reminder for me. I've noticed that I hesitate to call a friend with my woes or complain to my ever-patient hubby before I talked to God. Don't misunderstand - there is certainly a time and place for seeking wise counsel. But wise counsel comes after we ourselves have sought the Lord.
Another nugget of smack-me-on-the-forehead knowledge I came away with was: To be effective, I must be selective. Wow. Now, I know there are many wise ladies in our church that already know and practice this thought. But I love practical application. I like to read or hear something and know immediately how it applies to me and my life. This statement did that for me. How can I go about doing all that I do and do all of those things well? Or if I am so intent on all my good things, how will I have time for His things? How can I do His work effectively if I am not selective in how I commit my time and energy? This little phrase has reminded me to pause before saying "yes"; to lay my plans before the Lord and seek His guidance before committing.
Another lesson I came away with is to be available. I had great plans to get a pedicure with girlfriends during free time. I had saved my money and neglected my feet so I would get the full value out of the pedicure. Saturday morning I felt the Holy Spirit pressing upon me not to leave the hotel but to be available. To be honest, I was not happy. In fact, I argued with God about how much I deserved a treat and needed to indulge my very calloused soles. The Holy Spirit did not let up. I gave my pedicure appointment away and waited for the Lord.
After the meet and greet with the speaker, I glanced around at my table of friends. There, sitting 2 feet away, was the reason God asked me to stay behind. By my side was a sweet friend whose heart was breaking, who was finally calling out for help and prayer. I (and a few others) spent the next several hours listening and comforting a grieving sister in Christ. My time with her was a gift from God. He blessed me through her and through her transparent revelations of hurt and worry. If I had gone for a pedicure, I would have missed it! I would have missed a perfect opportunity to be a listening ear and a praying friend.
I could go on and on. I am confident that you too, have moments that still hold great meaning. Feel free to share them with us or keep them just between you and God. If you missed the retreat, prayerfully consider attending next year's event. It will bless you beyond measure.
Have a God-filled day.
Niki
Check out my personal blog at www.plantedontherock.blogspot.com
