Prayer:   Is it a forethought or an afterthought?

For me, it's a combination of both, and I'm always working on it being more of a fore rather than after thought.

I know I don't have to turn to God for everything. 

Should I buy broccoli or asparagus?   Should I wear a red shirt or a green shirt?  Which shoes should I buy?  Should I take Broadway or Speedway?   

I think, for the most part, God's answer is:  you pick!

But I do try to remember, on the bigger, more important stuff, to spend time being open to God.  

How should I respond to that comment?  Do I share money with that homeless person in the median?  Do I buy dinner for that guy hanging outside the store?  Do I speak up about something?  Do I keep my mouth shut?  How do I invest my time, my money?  

For me, when I spend time in prayer (and that doesn't always mean head bowed, eyes closed, hands folded), sometimes it's while I'm walking, driving, swimming, waking, I find myself more centered in my faith.   And then, I can't help but make more faithful decisions.  Sure, sometimes I choose wrong.  But even in those times, I find my prayer guiding me to fix the mistake.

I pray that my balance is shifting in favor of forethought, rather than afterthought.  

And I pray yours is too!
 

Peace in our journeys,

Pastor Steve Melde