“How Are You Doing?”
Three simple words, however, answering these three simple words can range from smiling happily with a positive report or not smiling at all but still positive with: “I’m fine, thanks for asking. How are you?” Only the person close to one who is positive but not smiling will know that something is wrong. Time to intercede on their behalf and ask God to cover them during their troubling time or bless them with their needs.
Trouble don’t last always! We hear this often yet fail to look to the One who can help us during our trials. We must make it a habit to pray more, pray often, and pray for self as well as others. I must admit that I’ve been guilty of leaving myself out of my prayers. Intercessory prayer is great, but don’t forget that you need prayer just as much as anyone.
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their trouble.”
Psalm 34:17 (NIV)
Other than God, you are the first to know when you’re in need of prayer. Praying for yourself is the one selfish act that is not defined by selfishness. God wants us to care for the well-being of others and He wants us to care for ourselves as well.
“Depression will make you disappear.” – Rev. Seymore Brice
Yes, when we’re worrying – stressing – depressing about our problems we’re out of circulation, so-to-speak. We withdraw from family – friends – acquaintances – the public. We disappear into a world of our own making. Pray! Communicate with God! Then, wait! While waiting, praise! Praise Him during your wait!
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:10
Take care of yourself – bring back those smiles that really mean something. Lift Him up – praise Him – then lift your hands to Him and pray for yourself – God will do the rest.
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Blessings!
Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan