I have a theory….
I know, I know, I have a theory about everything. But this one was included in yesterday’s discussion on prayer in quiet times. I ended the lesson by quoting Psalm 13:1, two times. Once with my hands politely folded and with a soft voice, and once with my arms in the air shouting toward the ceiling. Remember?
“How long, o Lord? Will you forget me forever?”
My theory is this…. the honest passion with which you express the prayer is equal to the honest passion you will experience when you receive your answer.
Now remember, I didn’t say that it was part of my theology, but just a theory. A theory is an idea you are working to understand better, an idea of how you think things will happen. I’ve seen it play out over and over in my life. The most memorable prayer in my life was an audible argument we had twelve years ago. I call it the day I started being honest with Him. It was the first day for many things, a true beginning.
Anyway, what do you think?
April 14, 2011 at 4:40 pm
The more I think about it the more I agree. I think that the reason is not because God does anything differently, but because of our perceptions. Some people tend to be more emotional and experience emotional things in a bigger way. There was a time when I was kind of jealous of those who had those “big” experiences, but I have learned that God made me different from them. He speaks to me in a different way, but it is still awesome and powerful to me even if it looks “quiet” or “small” on the outside or to others. I feel special every time He “winks” and it’s been often lately. Thank You, God!
April 18, 2011 at 2:53 pm
well said, and I think I agree
April 14, 2011 at 11:01 am
I do not think I doubt His abilities to respond to each and every one of us…just in my ability to hear and see His response when He sends them. Especially if I am not in the habit of asking for specific requests. I know it is a blessing to wake each morning and invite Him into my day. But what next?
April 14, 2011 at 11:17 am
we are going to address that directly and consistently after Easter in our class. I promise!
April 14, 2011 at 12:21 pm
Thanks very much for restating the direction for the upcoming sessions. Lon and I stepped out early to attend to the Door Greeting duties and we missed that part, the ending. We are enjoying the individual contributions that you and Marianne are adding. It is helpful to hear each of your viewpoints. Keep up the great work you two.
April 15, 2011 at 8:47 am
I hope you do not grow weary of questions. During the next sessions maybe you can compare this passion level to the concept of trying harder? And where would feelings of despairation come into the picture? That might be helpful as well. Thank you.
April 18, 2011 at 2:54 pm
excellent thought and question… please remind me if I forget!
April 13, 2011 at 6:10 am
I love to hear your theories. I don’t always agree, but they always make me think. I’m still pondering this one.
April 11, 2011 at 12:54 pm
I was sitting on that bench at the ladies retreat feeling all alone, desperate to feel loved and wanted. I began to cry out to God for the first time. I did it with such fervor, abondon, and with my arms opened wide. As I was crying out to Him, I asked Him, “God, where are You? Where were You when I was 8? Where were You throughout my childhood? Where are You now? Why don’t I know You? Why don’t I feel Your love? Why won’t You show Yourself to me?” When the wind came up and swirled up around me and felt like a big warm loving hug and the sun shone down brightly on my face and felt like a gentle brush on my cheek. As I felt a soft whisper saying, “You’re not alone, I’m right here.” I now know that because I was very passionate and maybe honest for the first time with how I felt and wanted, He showed me back the same passion….. added with a loving kindness I so desperately needed. I may never know where He was during my childhood, but He definitely showed Himself to me that lonely day on that bench!
April 14, 2011 at 10:53 am
I can easily see the passion from both the writer’s viewpoint and in what is perceived as God’s response. Sure sounds wonderful. “Good job” to the composer, in your choice of words… and huge appreciation to our Creator for His willingness to meet us where and when we cry out.
April 11, 2011 at 8:47 am
Rill nice
April 11, 2011 at 9:22 am
thanks