Prayer- Just some Thoughts

My work place has very interesting- strange- thermostsats. I say this because sometimes they work perfectly- responding almost immediately upon adjustment, but other times.......... Well, like today when my buddy Dave came into the break room (which really was a bit warm) and went immediately to work in great earnestness trying to reset the temperature. The first thought that went through my mind and the immediate words out of my mouth were,

"You're working on that thing like you really expect to get some results."

My words oozed sarcasm.

James 5:16 The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

John 15:7-8 Jesus said,"If you remain in Me and My words remain in you- ask whatever you wish and it will be given you-

This is to My Father's Glory."

How many times do I approach prayer like I do those thermostats at work? You know- it works sometimes- if I hold my mouth just right- Or if I punch the buttons in just the right way- Maybe it will work this time. Maybe it will give me what I want. It can't hurt to try. Maybe the great air conditioner gods will have mercy on me this time. I suppose this is better than denying the possibility the thermostat may work...........or is it? I wonder what God must think of my prayers- Is He pleased when I come to Him looking for a little comfort- You know- like when the room is a little warm and playing with the thermostat looks like the best alternative.

Where is the Power of God in that?

How is the Father Glorified in those pissy little prayers?

Oh now, don't get me wrong- I am not one of those who believes if I pray with more fervor and tag Jesus name on the end.......... God is somehow obligated to give me what I want- No, I am more inclined to believe the Power of Prayer is not so much to manipulate God into more favorable circumstances for myself as it is about connecting with God in such a way that He changes me. Chambers calls it "Forming the Mind of Christ".

Can God change my circumstances? Absolutely Yes!

But many times He offers so much more-

He offers to give me a part in expressing His Glory-

He offers that I may become United to His Heart-

United with Him in His Purposes-

Even in all the things that are making me uncomfortable.

Matthew 26:39 Going a little farther, Jesus fell with His face to the ground and prayed,"My Father if it is possible may this cup be taken from Me. Yet not My Will, but Thy Will be done."

Great Father in Heaven- I do not pretend to know all that You have in mind and so this one thing I pray- Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit - bring me into Your Great purposes. Work out Your Power in my life in such a way that somehow I may have a part in expressing Your Glory- Your Character- Your Goodness- Your Love- to all those around me. Amen