Read Psalm 95
Sometimes when you don’t feel like praying, or you’re consumed with needing to speak to the Lord but can’t gather the words, try that old standby—count your many blessings, count them one by one.
It’s amazing how you can get carried away from worries and woes and self concern when you start naming out loud what you’re thankful for. Right away your focus shifts from your needs to the Father’s graciousness and love. Try this:
LOOK UP . . . thank You, Lord . . .
for Your sovereign control over our circumstances
for Your holy character in spite of our sinfulness
for Your Word that gives us direction
for Your grace that removes our guilt
LOOK AROUND . . . thank You, Lord . . .
for our wonderful country
for close family ties
for an opportunity to help others
for a place to live, clothes to wear, food to eat
LOOK WITHIN . . . thank You, Lord . . .
for eyes that see the beauty of Your creation
for minds that are curious, creative, and competent
for memories of pleasures and recent accomplishments
for broken dreams and lingering afflictions that humble us
for a sense of humor that brings healing and hope
He is worthy of our highest praise and gratitude. To Him goes all the glory.
If you can’t pray, make a personalized list of blessings.
Taken from Charles R. Swindoll, Day by Day with Charles Swindoll (Nashville: W Publishing Group, 2000) 328. Copyright © 2000 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
About the Author // Charles R. Swindoll
Accuracy, clarity, and practicality all describe the Bible-teaching ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. Chuck is the chairman of the board at Insight for Living and the chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary. Chuck also serves as the senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, where he is able to do what he loves most—teach the Bible to willing hearts. His focus on practical Bible application has been heard on the Insight for Living radio broadcast since 1979.