Short and sweet thought for the week…
Brother Lawrence, author of The Practice of the Presence of God, wrote “A little lifting up of the heart suffices; a little remembrance of God, an interior act of adoration, even though made on the march and with sword in hand, are prayers which, short though they may be, are nevertheless very pleasing to God, and far from making a soldier lose his courage on the most dangerous occasions, bolster it.”
Of course, he is admonishing soldiers, but are we not, as the song says, Christian soldiers daily marching into war? That’s why we are told to put on the whole armor of God every day (Ephesians 6:10-20). During our daily battles, we may not always be where we can kneel in prayer. That’s when short, sincere, split-second prayers can keep us connected with God.
Brother Lawerence goes on to say, “Let him then think of God as much as possible so that he will gradually become accustomed to this little but holy exercise; no one will notice it and nothing is easier than to repeat often during the day these little acts of interior adoration.”
This admonition reminds us to stay in constant communication with God. Split-second prayers are an excellent form of rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and always giving thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:16). It keeps us in a spiritual mindset and receptive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
If we are quick to listen and slow to speak, we can ask God for guidance before we respond to others (James 1:19). When a person comes to mind, we can lift them up to God. An unexpected call from a dear friend is an opportunity to ask God to bless them. If a co-worker has a problem, we can ask God to help. After all, we are urged to make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for all people (1 Timothy 2:1).
We can also continuously be praising God for who He is and what He does. Short, little talks with God throughout the day help us grow accustom to His presence in our lives. It helps us thrive and survive so we can face each new day with spiritual perspective, peace, and confidence—ready for whatever comes our way.
“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing, in
everything give thanks…” ~1 Thessalonians 5:16
