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Conversation with God

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Friday and Saturday, my husband and I participated in a marriage retreat.  One of the exercises was a series of questions for which we respond simply with a "Thank You" regardless of the answers to those questions.  I was thinking about that this morning while reading my daily stuff.  It occurred to me that a series of questions might be a good way of talking to God in a way that forces me to listen, at least a little.  If I ask Him questions and wait for an answer, I'd have to pay attention, right?   This was a really neat thing.  No, I didn't get a list of responses, or hear an audible voice. Although I am certain I could receive both.

But after each question I asked God, I waited.  When my mind wondered from the question and listening for the answer, I asked the question again.  I only asked the next question when I felt that I'd spend enough time one the current one.  I did feel some degree of being finished with a question before asking the next.  I found myself really listening for an answer.  I found myself waiting on God, expecting God, rejoicing in the time together. 

I didn't say Thank You because I didn't get actual responses.  Not that I needed them but that was the exercise.  Tomorrow I think I'll try again and include a Thank You even if I don't "get an answer", but rather get a "ready for the next question".  The questions are not yes/no questions.  They are questions that require sentence or even paragraph or even full-page answers.  Since the material is all copyrighted, I won't include them here.  But maybe it is possible to come up with another series of questions that are personal between you and God.  I'd think this could open up a new avenue of communication, much like the marriage retreat.  And isn't that it?  Aren't we the member of Christ's church, His bride?  Communication is a good thing in any marriage, especially our marriage with Christ. 

Dear Jesus, Thank you for the opportunity to have a conversation with you.  What things can I do today that will bring me closer to you?  [pause] Thank you.  What are You most disappointed in me about? [pause] Thank you. What are you most pleased with me about? [pause] Thank you. In your name, I ask that you create change in me to illustrate an appropriate response to your answers to these questions. AMEN.

Comments

  1. AnonymousMarch 10, 2010 at 7:32 AM

    Through conversations with God and some wonderful friends I learned...

    If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
    Luke 9:23.

    Taking up your cross daily does not have to be a burden or negative or always difficult. Today I take up my cross of willingness. Here I am Lord--Ready for whatever you need me for. What a pleasant, refreshing cross I carry today.

    Thank you dear friend for helping me realize every committment to God does not have to be exhausting & difficult. Some times simple is good. :)DE

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sherri HardingMarch 10, 2010 at 10:31 AM

    what a wonderful addition to this post. Thank you, DE

    ReplyDelete

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