How often do you hear or say any of these things? Maybe once in a blue moon? After saying how great something was, how often do you hear or give thanks to the Lord? Probably even less.
Oh God, please help me pass this test!
Oh Jesus, help me get to work on time!
My friend is sick, please help them, God.
How often do you hear or say prayers like this? A lot more common than the prayers of thanksgiving.
This past Sunday, one thing really stood out to me. During the prayers of the people, we pause and allow for everyone to offer their own petitions. There is normally a pause of a minute or two while people offer prayers for others or needs or wants. Many people will speak their prayers aloud while many more mutter a few names and prayers under their breath. Right after this, their is another moment of silence.
"We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life."
People may add their own thanksgivings
Silence.
Why do we find it so difficult to be thankful for all the great things we are blessed with. Praying for others or praying for our needs is not wrong or bad or something that is not important. But shouldn't we be able to be thankful for all that we do have?
One very popular way of prayer is to follow the acronym ACTS.
Adoration
Simply put, praise Jesus. He is pretty amazing, so tell him.
Confession
Tell Jesus what you have done wrong and why, apologize to Him, seek forgiveness, and thank Him for it.
Thanksgiving
Express your gratitude to Jesus for His love, mercy, grace, leading, sustenance, discipline, and blessing.
Supplication
Ask Jesus to guide, heal, protect, comfort, sustain, or provide for you, or intercede for someone else.
Notice how we should give thanksgiving before asking for prayers? Why are we always so quick to ask, but find it so difficult to truly thank.
"Don't pray when it rains if you don't pray when the sun shines."
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