Bear Prayer

"Keep praying, honey," my father told me as we sat at the campground picnic table. It was the longest prayer I think I ever prayed. Out of the corner of his eye, my dad had seen a black bear come near our tent, just as I had begun to say grace over our hotdogs and macaroni salad. He knew as long as I prayed everyone in the family would keep their eyes closed, and thus remain calm and safe. Eventually, the bear left and daddy allowed me to finish my prayer. My dad knew just what to do to keep everyone calm in the face of potential danger, and our Heavenly Father knows, too.

The gift of the Holy Spirit enables us to choose not to be troubled in the face of troubling circumstances. He whispers in our ear, "peace, be still." He helps us to focus on His provision, His care, and His peace. The peace He gives does not make sense to the rest of the world, yet His perfect peace comes to us in prayers, prayers even offered in the face of great danger. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.
 
PRAYER: I praise You, Lord, for hearing my prayers, for whispering peace into my soul, and for giving me Your perfect peace no matter what my circumstances may be.

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and will cause you to remember everything I said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be distressed or lacking in courage,” John 14:26-27 NET.

Today’s devotion is by Cheri Cowell, Asbury Theological Seminary student, known as author and speaker on the deep questions of faith. Her first book Direction: Discernment for the Decisions of Your Life (Beacon Hill) is being called a biblically-sound, no nonsense approach to making God-centered life choices. For comments or to inquire about her speaking schedule, visit www.DirectionAndDiscernment.com/.