Prayer Warrior

There are many beautiful passages in the Bible about prayer that consistently tells us God is listening, but I will be the first to admit, sometimes I have wondered if I had His full attention. “Did He hear me? Perhaps, He is too busy? Are my prayers too trivial?”  I’ve wondered if I prayed long enough, used enough eloquent words, or spent enough time just in praise and worship? I have fretted with fears of unworthiness, experienced the shame of mistakes made, and felt the guilt of unreconciled relationships.

Sometimes I think, “I’m not a prayer warrior. I’m a fraud!” When people ask for prayer, am I enough? Afterall, I didn’t keep my Bible out on my desk at work. Aren’t prayer warriors on their knees for hours reciting scripture so easily it practically pours out of their mouth into this amazing, luscious cloud of cotton candy, I digress…Well, you get my point.

I’m often asked to pray for others. I consider it a privilege. However, I might be a little “jelly” of other women who clearly have the spiritual gift of prayer. I’ve seen it, heard it, and I love to be in the room for it. I have a sense of wonderment hearing people pray in worship and petition to our Father. I love to be in a restaurant and notice someone praying at the table together or alone. I’m a bit of a voyeur, because I want to see it. I want to eavesdrop and hear it. I try to be discreet and act like I’m looking the other way—but I’m really not. Often, I’m wondering what they are praying about, because I want to be in agreement with them. I want to send up a quick prayer, too. Like, “Hear them, Lord. Answer their prayers. Bless them, Lord.” 

I’m a short prayer girl. I get tongue tied or I can’t think of the right words when I need them. God knows, I would like to be a better “pray-er.” He has the Holy Spirit working with me, so there’s hope for the future. He gently reminds me that I’m doing just fine the way I am. He tells me I can approach the throne with confidence, because I am a beloved child of the King. Turns out, I am enough. Not because of what I’ve done, but because of what He did for me.

So, yes, I am a prayer warrior! As a matter of fact, God listens to me all the time. Not because I have a gift, not because of pretty words, not because of recited scripture spewing like cotton candy, but because I am REDEEMED. I am justified through faith. My sins are forgiven. The blood of Christ paid my debt. So, yes, I am a prayer warrior! I have an unbreakable relationship with Him. I cannot be snatched out of His hand, and I might just be His favorite…

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 ESV