I think God is convicting us all to pray more and more and more because of the situation the world is in also and we need to be very close to him to be used by him. We should all for sure be praying for Israel right now!
Prayers are the keys to the kingdom! We all need to work on our prayer life and sit in His presence. He said in His word that, His house shall be called the house of prayer. Thank you for sharing your conviction with us and reminding us of the thought that we don’t have to but we get to talk to our lord mindfully and not amidst. When we sit in His presence He speaks to us or gives us peace and love and joy. I love you Niki for how real you are and we can be real too!❤️
It is good when he empties us because that leaves more room for us to be filled with him. I recently converted a room to an office/prayer room. One of the closet doors I put bulletin board strips on the inside. I keep index cards nearby to write requests. I try to start with quiet worship. Then pray the request on the door, they are enough to get me going with the prayers, then I pray as He leads. But He has been dealing with me to sit quietly when I am done talking and just listen. Thanks for sharing your heart. I am right there too.
Convicted here, too, for a while now. Thank you for addressing this. It confirms what I’ve been feeling as well. Reminds me of a story someone shared with us when I served in prayer ministry years ago. The Lord told her to fill a jar with rice representing our daily activities, then to add three walnuts representing our time with him and prayer, then he told her to try to add the lid, the lid would not close… but if you add the walnuts first representing time with him and prayer then add the rice representing our daily activities, the lid fit perfectly! She demonstrated with a real jar, walnuts and the lid. I’ve never forgotten this little demonstration. So meaningful, atleast it was to me, though I’ve drifted and need to get back on track. Love and blessings to you 🌹
You are not alone. God convicted me when it comes to Bible journaling. He revealed to me that I had gotten more caught up with trying to make fancy and pretty pages instead of truly studying His word. I have tried devotionals but they are just not for me. I'd rather just read the Bible.
I so agree about devotionals. I have the hardest time with them. I love that you shared your heart about your own recent conviction. God is starting a prayer movement and it starts with the heart.
Sweetie, you are not alone & maybe why this ‘prayer Bible’ thing took off so strong! (As a BODY, we need to ‘abide’ now more than ever!) As a 71 yr old, I’ve been thro lots of ‘seasons’ w/ God. I’ve lived thro years of being so busy w/ kids & life, that I barely had time to breathe. (Yet my little ones knew that when I was in my daily quiet time, they could not interrupt. They could quietly play beside me, but this was my time w/ God, not their time w/ me. I don’t remember having to teach them that. It seemed even my social butterfly respected that priority! (So I know it can be done! Hope that helps.) And now, I’m having years of solitude & time to do whatever I please w/ it. And at times I abide & other times…🤪 And I can admit that in both scenarios, whether I abided, or didn’t, had nothing to do w/ the busyness of my life. Being busy isn’t the problem. It’s an excuse we use; a lie we believe. Not making that time to be w/ Him a PRIORITY, is the real reason-or at least it is for me. The past 6 years, while going thro one crisis after another, I clung to Him almost 24/7. And the more I abided, the more I craved to be w/ Him. I thought that closeness would be forever. Yet, recently, I realized I’m now going thro my days w/out even saying ‘Good Morning, Lord!’ How did that happen? And so quickly? Why did it change? I was now leaving my best friend out of my minutes, then hours…forgetting how exciting, fun & fulfilling it had been, being in His constant presence. How could I forget that joy??? And worst, my desire for the Word faded, so I didn’t even run to be w/ Him there! So, you see, I share your ache. And your need to find my way back. And I know it will be a battle-for we have an enemy who loves it when we aren’t abiding in Him. But that knowledge adds to my fight to set my priorities straight! And knowing God will make the way. For me, I think this prayer Bible is part of that way. Hearing of others’ excitement plus their struggles, adds to my strength! Thank you so much for your honesty. Sorry that my comment turned into this long confession-testimony, that should have been sent privately. I can only pray God will use it for someone here, as yours did for me! 🫶🏼
I’m so thankful that you posted it here!! You will be a blessing to many!! Your words of wisdom are so encouraging!! Love all that you shared and I know He’s calling you back!! Hugs! 🥰
Thank you for sharing your "AHA!" moment. I have had quite a few of those myself. A=aware H=humility A=action = AHA! First we have to realize our sin, become aware of our sin. Next comes the humbling, acknowledge our sin and ask for forgiveness. Finally we must take action, actively change to respond to God's leading, the Holy Spirit's prompting. That is called spiritual growth. That is a picture of a believers spiritual journey. I hope you keep a journal of all your AHA moments. A journal of all your personal encounters with God. God bless you dear sister in Christ!
Nicki, you are not alone. I’m always struggling with my prayer life. I truly want to hear from God but I just don’t understand how to get there. I needed this video. God is using you to help us. How great is that!!
This is SO preciously helpful.....I always hear," Pray without ceasing"....and think HOW??? HOW??? Conscious efforts to Pray and praise and THANK God when I make meals, clean dishes...even cleaning the TOILET....because I feel blessed we have PLUMBING.... It is a failing I think most of us have...and God is calling us to prayer more and more. I also found Bible Note Taking with Katie and she is a prayerful, lovely young woman....like you! We are all here and there finding each other. God bless us all!
Two of my viewers have told me about her channel recently. I will have to go check her out. I need all of the encouragement I can get to get more serious about my prayer time!
Oh my heart! I was convicted about a month ago regarding my lack of an abundant and fruitful prayer life . I started reading The Battle Plan for prayer and am still working on my plan. You are right that it doesn't happen overnight! I am convinced we can find the time by rearranging our priorities. I will keep following this page so we can learn together. I love that you called it a prayer revolution, and you are not alone, my friend 🙏 ❤️ Thank you❤
I love that you used the word "priorities" because the Lord just put that word on my heart before I opened UA-cam. I have to shift my priorities. Do a big rearrange! Thanks for the encouragement!
I definitely have sooooo much room for growth in this area too, and I appreciate you sharing vulnerably! One thing I've been trying to do more regularly is go outside for a "worship walk" early in the morning before my kids are up. My intention is to spend it in prayer and/or listening to worship music, but the few times when I have felt the Lord nudging me to turn off the music and even stop my praying thoughts, I have tried to just be quiet and receive from Him. My brain is total chaos and constant noise, so it's honestly kind of frustrating/disheartening to try to get it to hush up, but I will just try to turn the volume down on those thoughts when I notice them coming to the forefront and ask the Lord to quiet my mind to receive.
My confession is the same. I enjoy studying The Word of God, and I must have a bit of ADHD myself because it is easy for me to chase rabbits instead of staying with one study from start to finish. I am not a devotional person either because I tend to lose interest too quickly. My prayer life has been hot and cold, but mostly cool. I don't want to be a lazy Laodicean. Perhaps one of the reasons "prayer Bibles" have become such a thing at this time is that God is wanting all of us to get closer to Him. I think I will begin by looking up Prayer in all of my Concordances and see if He leads me to my starting place. I always praise, a lot, and I think that has helped me too. To me, praise and prayer go hand in hand. How wonderful this journey is going to be! Thank you for the kick in the pants. I really needed this. God bless you dear one. :)
The kick in the pants. ;) Yes, I too am being sent on a journey to find verses about prayer and learn from His Word! I will hopefully be doing some more videos as I learn more!
Lately I've been feeling concerned about my prayer life too. I love to study the Bible and know the Scriptures more and more, but I am convicted that is even more important having a real relationship with God through prayer than only reading and studying without feeling and abiding in His presence. Your video encouraged me a lot! Just know you're not alone. May the Holy Spirit help us in our prayer journey. God bless you girl.
God has convicted me about my prayer time as well. It’s been very hard because I don’t see my most recent prayers being answered. I care for my elderly mother and it’s a lot. I feel like it’s only going to get worse. I had a melt down yesterday with my sweet husband and I asked God to please not let me resent her. (There’s a whole other story behind that!) I asked the Lord what can I do!!! And then I see your video…….❤
God is working behind the scenes sweet sister. He is molding you and humbling you and changing you to rely on Him more. The apostle Paul says that Gods strength is made powerful in our weaknesses. You are giving God glory in your weakness and desperation. Keep walking with Him. ❤️ hugs!
Amen! I am in total agreement! I appreciate your being real and transparent. God Bless you and all of us who are traveling this journey to a better understanding and closer, loving relationship with our Abba, God.
If I might add I personally struggle with Men that are not either Dad or my Husband that is teaching me the word. So It is very nice to have a female bible teacher. So thank you! Julie
I literally just had this conversation with God this morning. It seems like when I finally am digging into his word and loving every second of my study that I let my prayer life go. It's such a process to strike a balance.
He has been convicting me for the past 2 months. I have a prayer binder and Bible that has been extremely helpful. Reading the word makes the prayer stronger.
Amen! Thank you for being so honest. I have been working on it and you just have to have grace with yourself and just find a way that works for you. You have the skills you have the knowledge you are going to find your way and thrive. God bless you!
So I really appreciate your openness and honesty here. I have just begun a new morning routine. I made a "Prayer Basket" where I put my prayer bible I am making, a psalm/proverb book, many prayer sheets, pictures of my family, etc all in the basket. And so I sit in my chair next to the window and begin with my prayer bible, then I read the psalms aloud and pray through them. It is amazing when you read them aloud to God in prayer. Sometimes I only have 10-15 min and sometimes I have an hour. This is all pretty new to me to set aside time like this with God....but it is now so important and vital as we draw to a close on this life. God Bless Nikki! Hope this helps :)
I am committing that same sin, but felt I was doing okay. Thanks for this. I can even see where I shut down when I am hurt when we should be praying. Thanks so much.
I love you sister! I love your honesty and humility! I personally pray in different ways. I tried writing down things to pray over, didn't work. I honestly just pray from my heart, I'm a crier in prayer. So much and so many to pray over these days. I am a comment reader and when someone asks for prayer i will stop amd just pray over that person, God knows their situation and what they need, I'm interceding for them as i lift them up in prayer. I always try and ask the Father that this be the day that more eyes, ears and hearts be opened to receive his son Jesus. That hearts of stone be turned to hearts of flesh. I want my prayers to include all mankind so I mention a domino effect. So many ppl are hurting in their minds, body and souls and ask that they be healed, to give a renewing of their minds. I'm including myself in these prayers as I need all these things continually as well. My heart is always so heavy with grief knowing so many ppl are suffering and lost. I can't help everyone but I can pray to God our Father to do only what He can do. God is High and lifted up far above every principality, He is the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega, He sees and knows all, He is the only one who knows how to reach a person, He's the only one who can search hearts. My favorite verse is Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall make straight your paths. Again I just pray from my heart. God loves you beautiful! Missouri Wrightchk
I can absolutely relate to what you struggle with Niki which is why I’ve ordered a Bible to create a prayer Bible. I truly hope that the prayer Bible that I will create will spark a strong desire in me to consistently pray to the Lord. Thank you Niki for sharing your heart. God bless
thank you for the reminder that God can use my failures! Hopefully this will inspire so many to make prayer more intentional and to seek intimacy with Him!
Thank you for sharing. I’m guilty of the same exact thing. I also have a food addiction that is in the forefront of my heart but prayer in his Presence should be first. 💜🙏🏻
Bless your heart, ❤ your words touched my heart. What I know is that, our faith builds, faith by faith, day by day. I really treasure those Aha moments. You do great work, just by being present.
Thank you for your vulnerability. I am right there with you. I think pray is what the world needs more of. In my personal life, I need a big boost of pray time in His presence. But like you I don’t know how to do that. Most of my prayers are repetitious and we are not supposed to pray that way, so I’m looking forward to following your journey with this. I am also working on making prayer bibles for myself. I am reading and meditating on each scripture before I put it in my prayer bible to make sure it is right for me. So I only put the scriptures that speak to me in my prayer bible. May God bless you in this journey! ❤
I commend you for confessing Niki. I really feel that when you get closer to Him your eating issue would go away. I get busy too and don't have a lot of silence time. One thing I do is intentionally practice His presence. Meaning I constantly try to visialize Him right next to me Even when I can't feel it I try to involve Him in every aspect and constantly talk to Him about EVERYTHING
I found this very enlightening. I think this is why the prayer Bible caught my attention. I used to start my day before God in my office but listening for/to Him before prayer. I need to get back to this. Thank you for your vulnerability.
Nicki, We love you for being here with us struggling with your flesh and walking with us and sharing what you are learning. Forgive yourself and give it to God he will use even this for his glory. I love my prayer bible it has helped me so much with praying for my family, friends, and this insane world. We are always in his presence as the Holy Spirit dwells within his people. We are always in Gods throne room. Take care and remember you are a new creature in Christ and all things are for his good and Glory. Praise Jesus!
I'll be joining you in this devotional. My prayer life isn't all it could be. I sometimes use a list but most of the time it's a friend asking and me praying immediately. Or when world events hit my soul so heavily that I feel the need for His comfort - like right now. My quiet time tends to be more in the evening after the workday is done and the dog has settled down for an evening snooze. Thank you for sharing your heart and I look forward to "comparing notes" on this devotional journey.
I just discovered your channel and my goodness, this video is what I needed to hear. Thank you for being vulnerable and honest! I need to sit in the presence of God❤.
I am not sure this is a sin, I believe you are growing and ready for the next level and intimacy. This is the process for every serious studies of the word. You do pray in every video I watch. You are amazingly knowledgeable at the Bible. I love it. It is time for your next level of growth, and be more intimate and vulnerable with God. We are all on a journey and God has called you to be more vulnerable with him. Excited for you!!
Oh Nicki, I was convicted the same way about my prayer or non-prayer life too! You are not alone! Finding a quiet place is a challenge but if I can make time to read & study the bible then I can find the time to pray as well. I seek advice as well and I will be learning with you too. Thank you for your honesty, my sister-in-christ. 🙏♥
I recently joined a new church and when back and listened to previous sermons. One of those was titled "Pray Better" I was so convicted. I have known my prayer life was lacking, but was so convicted. I'm a 90-day commitment to "Pray Better" . I've just started so I'm figuring out what that looks likec. Maybe the devotional will help. I look forward to following you on this journey!
Life does get into our way and shouldn’t but your love for children and adopting them and loving them and teaching them about God is a beautiful gift that you do and hand up to the Lord ( trying to find the words) like whatever you do to them you do to God am I making sense. He loves you even if you can’t every minute of the day in prayer. I have a quiet place and sometimes just ask what do you want to tell me today
My big problem is prayer, but my biggest sin is that I have never read the entire Bible, I get distracted by all of the Bible journaling because I am a creative person. I spend so much time researching creative ways to get into the Word, but I have never truly stopped to read my Bible outside of Church, Discipleship Class, Topical Studies, etc. I am a former Catholic and I was part of that generation that was never encouraged to read the Bible, because we could not "understand it" without a Priest (not sure if it is still that way 80's-90's, I'm not Catholic bashing, please do not take it that way). Growing up Catholic we were taught specific prayers for specific reasons all of which were unbiblical (as I later learned), and because of that I am terrified of praying the wrong way, Its something that I have been struggling to get over. I truly feel that this Prayer Bible is going to help with that. I had to stop with the tabs and the themes and take a step back, now that I understand the concept I will build it up over time with proper study and finally sit down and read through the Bible. Thank you for all you do.
I found that reading the Bible chronologically helped me. You can purchase a one year chronological Bible. I love mine. I bought one for several of my sisters in Christ and they are loving them.
Nikki I know what you mean. I study and read Gods word and listen to sermons every day. I love God and His word. But all of that I want to learn to pray more earnestly to Him. To know Him more closely. That’s why making the prayer bible was important to me to help me be a better person and more of a prayerful person. Thank you Nikki for all you do and it truly helps so many people. We all need to focus more on God.
Nicki, you are beautiful & God loves you too! What a blessing you are in sharing this & opening the eyes & hearts for us all because we are all so busy but as you mentioned spending time with God's presence is so important as you mentioned. It's not a formula, it starts with having a relationship with God (accepting Jesus as our Savior) & as you said, about being in His presence. Psalm 100:3 Tells us that we enter His gates with thanksgiving & His courts with praise. Psalm 22:3 tells us that God inhabits our praise. Being thankful & giving God praise is a way to worship Him. A good time to spend with God could be when preparing a meal, washing dishes, driving your car, taking a walk, vacuuming, cleaning your floors, doing laundry or my fav when taking a shower, put on soft worship music & asking God for a divine date with Him, just want to spend time with Him & not to bring any prayer requests before Him, but just want to be with Him, in His presence. Exalting God with thanksgiving, then praise & worship Him. Being thankful to God & praising Him is a way to worship Him & enter His throne room. High praise is all about exalting God & not including oneself in the praise, leaving out the mention of "I, me, mine" because that takes the total focus off God. God love you, all of us & He wants to spend time with us. Then prayer with flow with a heart of great love for our God & for others. Praying this will be a blessing. God love you!
Im a bit opposite; i felt a push to learn scripure but its affecting my prayer time. And now when i pray with scripture (prayer bible) it makes me feel very impersonal with him. Im trying to balance reading the bible, going to church, bible study, make sure son is reading, increasing my fellowship, increase my charitable acts along with not sacrifice my alone time with him, reading spirtual leaving books. Makes my head spin, i have adhd too. I keep hearing "its not sprint, build consistency". I think its my perfectionism overacheiver and people pleasing issues coming up.
Xoxo. My pastor, and others, call it time in his lap. Think of when your children just sit with you. No talking, no asking, just cuddling. Thats what i think of.
This is really convicting to me too. I struggle to pray. I can’t focus my mind- it just wanders. I’ve tried journaling my prayers, but then I stop because it seems so involved or my hand cramps lol. I think I focus too much on what I’m doing (studying, reading, looking up things, taking pretty notes), but I don’t enjoy spending time in prayer (I hate to even admit that). But I just struggle to sit quietly and actually focus on God. I’ve tried a method using an app (repeat timer) that is set for 2-minute intervals. Then I flip through my prayer requests and pray for each section until the timer goes off, then I move onto the next section. I like it, and it helps me focus, but for some reason, I put it off because it seems hard or too long to (insert excuse). I realize that I often rush through my prayers to move onto what I want to read or study. I really need to make time for prayer!
We’re a lot alike! I too have adhd and have focusing issues! And pray like you talk to God all day! I just may start my prayer ecourse from Jenny weaver called resetting my prayer life. You have touched my heart!
I just did a search of verses on “Drawing Closer to God” and here are some of the verses I came up with: Psalm 63:1; 73:28; 190:2-4; 143:8; 145:18 Isaiah 55:1-3 Jeremiah 29:12 John 15:4-5 Hebrews 7:19; 7:25; 10:19-22; 11:6 James 4:8
Look up Chris Garcia! We worship and sit in the presence of God together. I was drawn in because of God but also because it looked very similar to how my alone time was with God. I know you don’t have time to watch many videos but this is something you can play in the background and just listen. Give it try! You are right once you get in God’s presence nothing else matters and you don’t want to leave!❤
I don't know about how each person prays. Since age 7 I have always talked to God. I do that like he is always there and listening. I talk to the Holy Spirit and my Guardian Angel. Perhaps that may seem strange to some, but perhaps that is praying. I just have conversations with Him. I know these prayer Bibles are good because that is making me look into more of what's in it and says. I have read the Bible, but now I look at it differently by what I'm reading and finding. Perhaps it's the way I am. 75, living by myself, divorced, family gone, only child, no children. So I just communicate with him vocally and even quietly. I know he is listening and I'm seeing more and more Christians come forth and talk about God. I even see people on FB.putting scriptures online.
I really don't know how to sit in the presence of God. How do I know what to pray? How long? Things are never quiet in my house lol I struggle with this as well. You are so kind and I love your channel. ❤
I have been taking a personal spiritual retreat about once a year as a way to be in Gods presence more. Just me and God at a retreat center. Maybe you'd like that also. ❤
Such a great idea!!! Love this ❤️ have to admit, kind of embarrassed one of my “in real life” friends watched this. 🫣 but I hope it was a blessing to you sister and that it glorified God!!
Of course it was a blessing to me! Love you and your raw honesty. I paint and doodle in my Bible so it thrills me to know someone else who gets creative with God. ❤❤
When I was a busy full time mom I had worship music playing continually in the background. It really helped! Now I am an empty nester and have more time for focused prayers. I wonder if we women who are in different stages of life can help each other through this? Do you need a praying grandma in your life? I volunteer!!
The crazy thing is, I am a grandma. I am an empty nester whose nest never seems to empty. God keeps bringing more littles into our home and heart. We just willingly accept whatever he has in store but I don’t foresee a quiet future until I’m at least 65ish. So yes, please pray for me 🥰 thank you!!!
Nikki, I think you would find Communion With God Ministries teachings by Mark Virkler life changing. He teaches the simple steps of entering into God's presence and hearing Him speak to your heart.
I am so cautious with who I listen to or read. There are so many false teachers out there and they don’t even realize that they are. But if I get a chance I sure will look it up. Thanks for the suggestion 😊
Amen! I struggle with food addiction too, I turn to food before I turn to quiet time with God. When I sit down to have quiet time with God. I truly struggle with turning off my brain and truly focusing on his presence. Excited to come along side of you and learn this new journey.
Amen! I am right with you, over eat and under pray. I’m looking forward to your series on sitting in the presence of God. I also watch a UA-cam channel called Barbara Frone, she is wonderful at sitting and listening to God and explaining herself. Hang in there, you are not alone. My prayer Bible has me reading more now and praying but I need to sit and listen. I am not good using devotionals either. But I love reading the Bible.❤
I don’t like devotionals either. But I found a little book that really helps me get into the presence of God. It is called Simple Prayers, a Daybook of Conversations with God, by Kenneth and Karen Boa. It is mostly scripture with just a little bit of structure with sections each day: I Draw Near to You, God, Thank You for What You’ve Done, I Listen to Your Words of Truth, My Response to You, Lord. I have found it really helpful. - especially between structure and substance.
You get to be in the presence of God by faith. Its not a feeling. You have to believe in spite of how you feel. When we speak to Him, we are in His presence, whether you are speaking to Him in your mind at the supermarket or on your knees in your prayer closet or praying to Him at church, you are in His presence BY FAITH. God just wants the heart so just be honest with Him. Let Him know you want to hear from Him. All this thing about silence is borrowed from Eastern religion so try not to get caught up in that. God speaks to you through His word...to the law and the prophets, if they don't speak according to this there is just no light...zero light...in them Isaiah 8:10. He also speaks to us as well through nature and also through His providence. God is leading you. That prayer you prayed is exactly how you pray...from the heart, knowing your need. That prayer is similar to the ones I prayed in my need for Him. To go deeper. I could say much more. Do you have an email?That passion that you have for God's word is a gift from God. Blessings to you and your family.
Hi Nikki! I purchase the book, The Essential Presence by B Elliff and was hoping to do the study you recommended. Are you still planning on doing that?
Well hello fellow ADHD sister! I could have said the exact words you are saying. I'm just now starting to build my own prayer bible and I'm learning a LOT lately about being in His presence, trusting Him, believing He is good and He is sovereign. Your words are spot on! I'm on the journey with ya!!
What do you mean exactly by praying in silence? 😅 I am not confident in my prayer to pray in front of others. Others pray much better/stronger than I. Yes I compare myself 😅 I know I lack in this too, you’re not alone in not praying as much. Thank you for your openness.
I do not know how to pray… 😢 when I want to pray, it’s like my mind goes blank and I don’t know what to say! Where do I start? How do I make it make sense to me?
Nikki This is a a hard process to establish. Bible word study the word prayer take notes see what you see in them all, any guidelines, etc???One OLD book you might look at is PRACTING THE PRESENCE OF GOD by BRO. LAWRENCE I think it consider a Classic Christian Book. It's a short book but may be greatly loaded. I read it a long time ago and may reread it bec Prayer with God is lacking with me too. Also Dr. Charles Stanley has some out that I think are very good!!!! Thanks Maybe work on Prayer notebook for our Prayer Divine Appointment with God. He will meet us there in fact He will be waiting for us!!! Love Marian
If you have time to open up the Bible, you have time to talk to God in prayer. I just did a video yesterday about this., and ii"m not a youtuber. God doesn't want you to just repeat to him scripture that you know. He wants a personal relationship with you. If you're driving in your car, talk to him. If you're going to the bathroom, talk to him. Cooking dinner, dusting, laundry... talk to him. Just like you do to the camera. How can we expect to have his attention if he doesn't have ours?
Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” Mark 2:27-28 NASB1995 God made us a day specifically to rest and spend time with Him. To refresh us and draw us closer to Himself to develop our relationship with Him. His letting the disciples pick grain, or Jesus healing, isn't work, it is telling me "you don't have to work everyday to survive, one day a week, rest in Me and I will take care of all your needs"
I know that it’s important to not make bible study or other spiritual activities a substitute for intentional prayer. But even in that isn’t God present with you? Aren’t you seeking him from your heart? When we can’t even read a bible verse in busy seasons with kids etc. God says he will never leave you and that you are always in his presence. God’s grace is sufficient. When your kids are grown up then you can sit and pray. And until then you can pray while you cook and clean. Now my kids need less attention so early mornings are good times. Please don’t condemn yourself. The devil is an accuser and wants to condemn God’s people but greater is He who is within you than he who is in the world. I love that Jesus poured out his grace even on the sinner. How much more should we who are redeemed know his love, live in his grace believing that He is sufficient and not put guilt on yourself by thinking you’re not doing enough when Jesus has done his finished work. It is by His grace alone that we live. My prayer time varies according to the season but variety is good. Jesus prayed in all different contexts, and he sees your heart. God isn’t upset with you- or anyone who is his child seeking to honor and worship Him❤
you are doing the right things { & continue} but , but at this time you are being called away from always doing to - now being " Be" . called to His" Secret place" called to go 'Deeper for your self to build up your inner spirit man list the words Holy Spirit gives you - intimacy with the Beloved, He is mine & I am His, rest in Him " Called to the Secret Place" sit in silence Mother Teresa guote " for it is in the silence that God speaks"
The Lord wakes me up usually at 3!00 am . I go before. Him. His presence is strong, sometimes it’s long prayers and sometimes it’s short.
Lately, I’m right there! I can feel the warfare! God bless
I think God is convicting us all to pray more and more and more because of the situation the world is in also and we need to be very close to him to be used by him. We should all for sure be praying for Israel right now!
Prayers are the keys to the kingdom! We all need to work on our prayer life and sit in His presence. He said in His word that, His house shall be called the house of prayer. Thank you for sharing your conviction with us and reminding us of the thought that we don’t have to but we get to talk to our lord mindfully and not amidst. When we sit in His presence He speaks to us or gives us peace and love and joy. I love you Niki for how real you are and we can be real too!❤️
It is good when he empties us because that leaves more room for us to be filled with him.
I recently converted a room to an office/prayer room.
One of the closet doors I put bulletin board strips on the inside. I keep index cards nearby to write requests.
I try to start with quiet worship. Then pray the request on the door, they are enough to get me going with the prayers, then I pray as He leads.
But He has been dealing with me to sit quietly when I am done talking and just listen.
Thanks for sharing your heart. I am right there too.
Convicted here, too, for a while now. Thank you for addressing this. It confirms what I’ve been feeling as well. Reminds me of a story someone shared with us when I served in prayer ministry years ago. The Lord told her to fill a jar with rice representing our daily activities, then to add three walnuts representing our time with him and prayer, then he told her to try to add the lid, the lid would not close… but if you add the walnuts first representing time with him and prayer then add the rice representing our daily activities, the lid fit perfectly! She demonstrated with a real jar, walnuts and the lid. I’ve never forgotten this little demonstration. So meaningful, atleast it was to me, though I’ve drifted and need to get back on track. Love and blessings to you 🌹
That is so neat!
You are not alone. God convicted me when it comes to Bible journaling. He revealed to me that I had gotten more caught up with trying to make fancy and pretty pages instead of truly studying His word. I have tried devotionals but they are just not for me. I'd rather just read the Bible.
I so agree about devotionals. I have the hardest time with them. I love that you shared your heart about your own recent conviction. God is starting a prayer movement and it starts with the heart.
Sweetie, you are not alone & maybe why this ‘prayer Bible’ thing took off so strong! (As a BODY, we need to ‘abide’ now more than ever!)
As a 71 yr old, I’ve been thro lots of ‘seasons’ w/ God. I’ve lived thro years of being so busy w/ kids & life, that I barely had time to breathe. (Yet my little ones knew that when I was in my daily quiet time, they could not interrupt.
They could quietly play beside me, but this was my time w/ God, not their time w/ me. I don’t remember having to teach them that. It seemed even my social butterfly respected that priority! (So I know it can be done! Hope that helps.)
And now, I’m having years of solitude & time to do whatever I please w/ it. And at times I abide & other times…🤪
And I can admit that in both scenarios, whether I abided, or didn’t, had nothing to do w/ the busyness of my life. Being busy isn’t the problem. It’s an excuse we use; a lie we believe. Not making that time to be w/ Him a PRIORITY, is the real reason-or at least it is for me.
The past 6 years, while going thro one crisis after another, I clung to Him almost 24/7. And the more I abided, the more I craved to be w/ Him.
I thought that closeness would be forever.
Yet, recently, I realized I’m now going thro my days w/out even saying ‘Good Morning, Lord!’ How did that happen? And so quickly? Why did it change? I was now leaving my best friend out of my minutes, then hours…forgetting how exciting, fun & fulfilling it had been, being in His constant presence.
How could I forget that joy??? And worst, my desire for the Word faded, so I didn’t even run to be w/ Him there!
So, you see, I share your ache. And your need to find my way back. And I know it will be a battle-for we have an enemy who loves it when we aren’t abiding in Him. But that knowledge adds to my fight to set my priorities straight! And knowing God will make the way.
For me, I think this prayer Bible is part of that way. Hearing of others’ excitement plus their struggles, adds to my strength! Thank you so much for your honesty.
Sorry that my comment turned into this long confession-testimony, that should have been sent privately. I can only pray God will use it for someone here, as yours did for me! 🫶🏼
I’m so thankful that you posted it here!! You will be a blessing to many!! Your words of wisdom are so encouraging!! Love all that you shared and I know He’s calling you back!! Hugs! 🥰
Thank you for sharing your "AHA!" moment. I have had quite a few of those myself. A=aware H=humility A=action = AHA! First we have to realize our sin, become aware of our sin. Next comes the humbling, acknowledge our sin and ask for forgiveness. Finally we must take action, actively change to respond to God's leading, the Holy Spirit's prompting. That is called spiritual growth. That is a picture of a believers spiritual journey. I hope you keep a journal of all your AHA moments. A journal of all your personal encounters with God. God bless you dear sister in Christ!
Nicki, you are not alone. I’m always struggling with my prayer life. I truly want to hear from God but I just don’t understand how to get there. I needed this video. God is using you to help us. How great is that!!
All glory goes to Him.
He is amazing and is calling us all to pray more ❤️ Hallelujah
This is SO preciously helpful.....I always hear," Pray without ceasing"....and think HOW??? HOW??? Conscious efforts to Pray and praise and THANK God when I make meals, clean dishes...even cleaning the TOILET....because I feel blessed we have PLUMBING.... It is a failing I think most of us have...and God is calling us to prayer more and more. I also found Bible Note Taking with Katie and she is a prayerful, lovely young woman....like you! We are all here and there finding each other. God bless us all!
Two of my viewers have told me about her channel recently. I will have to go check her out. I need all of the encouragement I can get to get more serious about my prayer time!
It is important to to encourage each other, for sure.
@@nickidrake
Girl, thank you for your vulnerability.
Our lives are like an onion.
Layer by layer be become as He wants us to be.
So true!
Amen!
Oh my heart! I was convicted about a month ago regarding my lack of an abundant and fruitful prayer life . I started reading The Battle Plan for prayer and am still working on my plan. You are right that it doesn't happen overnight! I am convinced we can find the time by rearranging our priorities. I will keep following this page so we can learn together. I love that you called it a prayer revolution, and you are not alone, my friend 🙏 ❤️ Thank you❤
I love that you used the word "priorities" because the Lord just put that word on my heart before I opened UA-cam. I have to shift my priorities. Do a big rearrange! Thanks for the encouragement!
Early in the morning 1 hour before life begins. Is my favorite time
I definitely have sooooo much room for growth in this area too, and I appreciate you sharing vulnerably! One thing I've been trying to do more regularly is go outside for a "worship walk" early in the morning before my kids are up. My intention is to spend it in prayer and/or listening to worship music, but the few times when I have felt the Lord nudging me to turn off the music and even stop my praying thoughts, I have tried to just be quiet and receive from Him. My brain is total chaos and constant noise, so it's honestly kind of frustrating/disheartening to try to get it to hush up, but I will just try to turn the volume down on those thoughts when I notice them coming to the forefront and ask the Lord to quiet my mind to receive.
Such a beautiful idea. I love what you are doing.
My confession is the same. I enjoy studying The Word of God, and I must have a bit of ADHD myself because it is easy for me to chase rabbits instead of staying with one study from start to finish. I am not a devotional person either because I tend to lose interest too quickly. My prayer life has been hot and cold, but mostly cool. I don't want to be a lazy Laodicean. Perhaps one of the reasons "prayer Bibles" have become such a thing at this time is that God is wanting all of us to get closer to Him. I think I will begin by looking up Prayer in all of my Concordances and see if He leads me to my starting place. I always praise, a lot, and I think that has helped me too. To me, praise and prayer go hand in hand. How wonderful this journey is going to be! Thank you for the kick in the pants. I really needed this. God bless you dear one. :)
The kick in the pants. ;) Yes, I too am being sent on a journey to find verses about prayer and learn from His Word! I will hopefully be doing some more videos as I learn more!
Lately I've been feeling concerned about my prayer life too. I love to study the Bible and know the Scriptures more and more, but I am convicted that is even more important having a real relationship with God through prayer than only reading and studying without feeling and abiding in His presence. Your video encouraged me a lot! Just know you're not alone. May the Holy Spirit help us in our prayer journey. God bless you girl.
You too sister!!!
God has convicted me about my prayer time as well. It’s been very hard because I don’t see my most recent prayers being answered. I care for my elderly mother and it’s a lot. I feel like it’s only going to get worse. I had a melt down yesterday with my sweet husband and I asked God to please not let me resent her. (There’s a whole other story behind that!) I asked the Lord what can I do!!! And then I see your video…….❤
God is working behind the scenes sweet sister. He is molding you and humbling you and changing you to rely on Him more. The apostle Paul says that Gods strength is made powerful in our weaknesses. You are giving God glory in your weakness and desperation. Keep walking with Him. ❤️ hugs!
Amen! I am in total agreement! I appreciate your being real and transparent. God Bless you and all of us who are traveling this journey to a better understanding and closer, loving relationship with our Abba, God.
I needed to hear this!! Thank you!!!! My morning quiet times are going to be so much more fruitful ❤
You are so welcome! To God be all the glory!!
I needed this. I was thinking the same yesterday, that I struggle with prayer among other things. Thank you
You are so welcome. Blessings!!
If I might add I personally struggle with Men that are not either Dad or my Husband that is teaching me the word. So It is very nice to have a female bible teacher. So thank you! Julie
Beautiful video. This a wake up call for us all. Focus on what matter most🎉
Thank you I have the same problem. Thank you for the prayer you prayed.
I literally just had this conversation with God this morning. It seems like when I finally am digging into his word and loving every second of my study that I let my prayer life go. It's such a process to strike a balance.
He has been convicting me for the past 2 months. I have a prayer binder and Bible that has been extremely helpful. Reading the word makes the prayer stronger.
Amen!!
Thank you so much for this video. I also struggle in this area.
Amen! Thank you for being so honest. I have been working on it and you just have to have grace with yourself and just find a way that works for you. You have the skills you have the knowledge you are going to find your way and thrive. God bless you!
So I really appreciate your openness and honesty here. I have just begun a new morning routine. I made a "Prayer Basket" where I put my prayer bible I am making, a psalm/proverb book, many prayer sheets, pictures of my family, etc all in the basket. And so I sit in my chair next to the window and begin with my prayer bible, then I read the psalms aloud and pray through them. It is amazing when you read them aloud to God in prayer. Sometimes I only have 10-15 min and sometimes I have an hour. This is all pretty new to me to set aside time like this with God....but it is now so important and vital as we draw to a close on this life. God Bless Nikki! Hope this helps :)
Beautiful idea!!
I am committing that same sin, but felt I was doing okay. Thanks for this. I can even see where I shut down when I am hurt when we should be praying. Thanks so much.
I love you sister! I love your honesty and humility! I personally pray in different ways. I tried writing down things to pray over, didn't work. I honestly just pray from my heart, I'm a crier in prayer. So much and so many to pray over these days. I am a comment reader and when someone asks for prayer i will stop amd just pray over that person, God knows their situation and what they need, I'm interceding for them as i lift them up in prayer. I always try and ask the Father that this be the day that more eyes, ears and hearts be opened to receive his son Jesus. That hearts of stone be turned to hearts of flesh. I want my prayers to include all mankind so I mention a domino effect. So many ppl are hurting in their minds, body and souls and ask that they be healed, to give a renewing of their minds. I'm including myself in these prayers as I need all these things continually as well. My heart is always so heavy with grief knowing so many ppl are suffering and lost. I can't help everyone but I can pray to God our Father to do only what He can do. God is High and lifted up far above every principality, He is the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega, He sees and knows all, He is the only one who knows how to reach a person, He's the only one who can search hearts. My favorite verse is Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall make straight your paths. Again I just pray from my heart. God loves you beautiful! Missouri Wrightchk
I can absolutely relate to what you struggle with Niki which is why I’ve ordered a Bible to create a prayer Bible. I truly hope that the prayer Bible that I will create will spark a strong desire in me to consistently pray to the Lord. Thank you Niki for sharing your heart.
God bless
Oh Nicki, I'm there with you! Thank you for this! God is using you!!
thank you for the reminder that God can use my failures! Hopefully this will inspire so many to make prayer more intentional and to seek intimacy with Him!
Thank you for sharing. I’m guilty of the same exact thing. I also have a food addiction that is in the forefront of my heart but prayer in his Presence should be first. 💜🙏🏻
Oh my! That is exactly what I am going through right now! Thank you for being honest and bringing that to the forefront!
That is a great question, Nicki, and I need the answer to that question as well. I do not spend the time with God as I should, but I want to.
I feel you on this. I repent and will change this effect immediately. Thank you. We will improve. ❤❤❤
Bless your heart, ❤ your words touched my heart. What I know is that, our faith builds, faith by faith, day by day. I really treasure those Aha moments. You do great work, just by being present.
Thank you 💝
Thank you for your vulnerability. I am right there with you. I think pray is what the world needs more of. In my personal life, I need a big boost of pray time in His presence. But like you I don’t know how to do that. Most of my prayers are repetitious and we are not supposed to pray that way, so I’m looking forward to following your journey with this. I am also working on making prayer bibles for myself. I am reading and meditating on each scripture before I put it in my prayer bible to make sure it is right for me. So I only put the scriptures that speak to me in my prayer bible. May God bless you in this journey! ❤
Love that you are praying over each Scripture before highlighting and tabbing them. Thanks for going on this journey with me!
I have also been convicted. Thank you for sharing so openly and honestly. God bless you. ❤
Yes! and Amen!!!
I commend you for confessing Niki. I really feel that when you get closer to Him your eating issue would go away. I get busy too and don't have a lot of silence time. One thing I do is intentionally practice His presence. Meaning I constantly try to visialize Him right next to me Even when I can't feel it I try to involve Him in every aspect and constantly talk to Him about EVERYTHING
Love the tip of visualizing Him with you!
@@nickidrake You will get distracted a LOT but keep at it because the more you do it the more it becomes a habit and then His presence becomes real.
Thank you for this video I am struggling with this also. ❤️
I found this very enlightening. I think this is why the prayer Bible caught my attention. I used to start my day before God in my office but listening for/to Him before prayer. I need to get back to this. Thank you for your vulnerability.
It is sobering to realize you have been telling yourself your doing one thing when your doing another..
Nicki, We love you for being here with us struggling with your flesh and walking with us and sharing what you are learning. Forgive yourself and give it to God he will use even this for his glory. I love my prayer bible it has helped me so much with praying for my family, friends, and this insane world. We are always in his presence as the Holy Spirit dwells within his people. We are always in Gods throne room. Take care and remember you are a new creature in Christ and all things are for his good and Glory. Praise Jesus!
I'll be joining you in this devotional. My prayer life isn't all it could be. I sometimes use a list but most of the time it's a friend asking and me praying immediately. Or when world events hit my soul so heavily that I feel the need for His comfort - like right now. My quiet time tends to be more in the evening after the workday is done and the dog has settled down for an evening snooze. Thank you for sharing your heart and I look forward to "comparing notes" on this devotional journey.
good job! thank you!!
GOD bless you sister. "“How blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness!
for they will be filled." Matthew 5:6 CJB ✝
Such an absolutely beautiful scripture reminder! I am definitely hungering and thirsting for righteousness!
I will join you. My prayer life is terrible and I want to be in His presence .
I just discovered your channel and my goodness, this video is what I needed to hear. Thank you for being vulnerable and honest! I need to sit in the presence of God❤.
amen!
I am not sure this is a sin, I believe you are growing and ready for the next level and intimacy. This is the process for every serious studies of the word. You do pray in every video I watch. You are amazingly knowledgeable at the Bible. I love it. It is time for your next level of growth, and be more intimate and vulnerable with God. We are all on a journey and God has called you to be more vulnerable with him. Excited for you!!
Well said! Thank you so much!!
Oh Nicki, I was convicted the same way about my prayer or non-prayer life too! You are not alone! Finding a quiet place is a challenge but if I can make time to read & study the bible then I can find the time to pray as well. I seek advice as well and I will be learning with you too. Thank you for your honesty, my sister-in-christ. 🙏♥
Very good point! I make time to study so surely, I can make time to pray more intentionally!
I recently joined a new church and when back and listened to previous sermons. One of those was titled "Pray Better" I was so convicted. I have known my prayer life was lacking, but was so convicted. I'm a 90-day commitment to "Pray Better" . I've just started so I'm figuring out what that looks likec. Maybe the devotional will help. I look forward to following you on this journey!
Life does get into our way and shouldn’t but your love for children and adopting them and loving them and teaching them about God is a beautiful gift that you do and hand up to the Lord ( trying to find the words) like whatever you do to them you do to God am I making sense. He loves you even if you can’t every minute of the day in prayer. I have a quiet place and sometimes just ask what do you want to tell me today
Thank you for the encouragement. He has given us such amazing gifts through unexpected adoptions. 🥰
Hi
This book helped me , is also a good start
4 KEYS
to
HEARING
GOD's VOICE
MARK AND PATTI VIRKLER
Silence….. to listen to the Holy Spirit.
Silence, yes!!
My big problem is prayer, but my biggest sin is that I have never read the entire Bible, I get distracted by all of the Bible journaling because I am a creative person. I spend so much time researching creative ways to get into the Word, but I have never truly stopped to read my Bible outside of Church, Discipleship Class, Topical Studies, etc. I am a former Catholic and I was part of that generation that was never encouraged to read the Bible, because we could not "understand it" without a Priest (not sure if it is still that way 80's-90's, I'm not Catholic bashing, please do not take it that way). Growing up Catholic we were taught specific prayers for specific reasons all of which were unbiblical (as I later learned), and because of that I am terrified of praying the wrong way, Its something that I have been struggling to get over. I truly feel that this Prayer Bible is going to help with that. I had to stop with the tabs and the themes and take a step back, now that I understand the concept I will build it up over time with proper study and finally sit down and read through the Bible. Thank you for all you do.
I found that reading the Bible chronologically helped me. You can purchase a one year chronological Bible. I love mine. I bought one for several of my sisters in Christ and they are loving them.
😢😢 This is Soo in season,I'm also going through the same..
Nikki I know what you mean. I study and read Gods word and listen to sermons every day. I love God and His word. But all of that I want to learn to pray more earnestly to Him. To know Him more closely. That’s why making the prayer bible was important to me to help me be a better person and more of a prayerful person. Thank you Nikki for all you do and it truly helps so many people. We all need to focus more on God.
Hey, Brenda, it is so great to hear from you! One of my earliest viewers! Praying more earnestly, to now Him more closely, amen!
Nicki, you are beautiful & God loves you too! What a blessing you are in sharing this & opening the eyes & hearts for us all because we are all so busy but as you mentioned spending time with God's presence is so important as you mentioned.
It's not a formula, it starts with having a relationship with God (accepting Jesus as our Savior) & as you said, about being in His presence.
Psalm 100:3 Tells us that we enter His gates with thanksgiving & His courts with praise. Psalm 22:3 tells us that God inhabits our praise.
Being thankful & giving God praise is a way to worship Him.
A good time to spend with God could be when preparing a meal, washing dishes, driving your car, taking a walk, vacuuming, cleaning your floors, doing laundry or my fav when taking a shower, put on soft worship music & asking God for a divine date with Him, just want to spend time with Him & not to bring any prayer requests before Him, but just want to be with Him, in His presence. Exalting God with thanksgiving, then praise & worship Him. Being thankful to God & praising Him is a way to worship Him & enter His throne room.
High praise is all about exalting God & not including oneself in the praise, leaving out the mention of "I, me, mine" because that takes the total focus off God. God love you, all of us & He wants to spend time with us. Then prayer with flow with a heart of great love for our God & for others. Praying this will be a blessing. God love you!
I could say the same exact words. Thank you.
Yes!!!
Im a bit opposite; i felt a push to learn scripure but its affecting my prayer time. And now when i pray with scripture (prayer bible) it makes me feel very impersonal with him. Im trying to balance reading the bible, going to church, bible study, make sure son is reading, increasing my fellowship, increase my charitable acts along with not sacrifice my alone time with him, reading spirtual leaving books. Makes my head spin, i have adhd too. I keep hearing "its not sprint, build consistency". I think its my perfectionism overacheiver and people pleasing issues coming up.
So beautifully said. ❤️
Xoxo. My pastor, and others, call it time in his lap. Think of when your children just sit with you. No talking, no asking, just cuddling. Thats what i think of.
Love that!!
This is really convicting to me too. I struggle to pray. I can’t focus my mind- it just wanders. I’ve tried journaling my prayers, but then I stop because it seems so involved or my hand cramps lol. I think I focus too much on what I’m doing (studying, reading, looking up things, taking pretty notes), but I don’t enjoy spending time in prayer (I hate to even admit that). But I just struggle to sit quietly and actually focus on God. I’ve tried a method using an app (repeat timer) that is set for 2-minute intervals. Then I flip through my prayer requests and pray for each section until the timer goes off, then I move onto the next section. I like it, and it helps me focus, but for some reason, I put it off because it seems hard or too long to (insert excuse). I realize that I often rush through my prayers to move onto what I want to read or study. I really need to make time for prayer!
This sounds so similar. Hand cramping. Lol. Totally me. I greatly dislike writing out big things. So that’s never worked for me either!!
We’re a lot alike! I too have adhd and have focusing issues! And pray like you talk to God all day! I just may start my prayer ecourse from Jenny weaver called resetting my prayer life. You have touched my heart!
Also I literally just got done watching war room again this morning. Don’t think that’s a coincidence!
I just did a search of verses on “Drawing Closer to God” and here are some of the verses I came up with:
Psalm 63:1; 73:28; 190:2-4; 143:8; 145:18
Isaiah 55:1-3
Jeremiah 29:12
John 15:4-5
Hebrews 7:19; 7:25; 10:19-22; 11:6
James 4:8
Thank you for this 🥰
Look up Chris Garcia! We worship and sit in the presence of God together. I was drawn in because of God but also because it looked very similar to how my alone time was with God. I know you don’t have time to watch many videos but this is something you can play in the background and just listen. Give it try! You are right once you get in God’s presence nothing else matters and you don’t want to leave!❤
Yes I don’t want to leave, we’ll said.
I don't know about how each person prays. Since age 7 I have always talked to God. I do that like he is always there and listening. I talk to the Holy Spirit and my Guardian Angel. Perhaps that may seem strange to some, but perhaps that is praying. I just have conversations with Him. I know these prayer Bibles are good because that is making me look into more of what's in it and says. I have read the Bible, but now I look at it differently by what I'm reading and finding. Perhaps it's the way I am. 75, living by myself, divorced, family gone, only child, no children. So I just communicate with him vocally and even quietly. I know he is listening and I'm seeing more and more Christians come forth and talk about God. I even see people on FB.putting scriptures online.
I really don't know how to sit in the presence of God. How do I know what to pray? How long? Things are never quiet in my house lol I struggle with this as well. You are so kind and I love your channel. ❤
I have been taking a personal spiritual retreat about once a year as a way to be in Gods presence more. Just me and God at a retreat center. Maybe you'd like that also. ❤
Such a great idea!!! Love this ❤️ have to admit, kind of embarrassed one of my “in real life” friends watched this. 🫣 but I hope it was a blessing to you sister and that it glorified God!!
Of course it was a blessing to me! Love you and your raw honesty. I paint and doodle in my Bible so it thrills me to know someone else who gets creative with God. ❤❤
When I was a busy full time mom I had worship music playing continually in the background. It really helped! Now I am an empty nester and have more time for focused prayers. I wonder if we women who are in different stages of life can help each other through this? Do you need a praying grandma in your life? I volunteer!!
The crazy thing is, I am a grandma. I am an empty nester whose nest never seems to empty. God keeps bringing more littles into our home and heart. We just willingly accept whatever he has in store but I don’t foresee a quiet future until I’m at least 65ish. So yes, please pray for me 🥰 thank you!!!
Nikki, I think you would find Communion With God Ministries teachings by Mark Virkler life changing. He teaches the simple steps of entering into God's presence and hearing Him speak to your heart.
I am so cautious with who I listen to or read. There are so many false teachers out there and they don’t even realize that they are. But if I get a chance I sure will look it up. Thanks for the suggestion 😊
Amen! I struggle with food addiction too, I turn to food before I turn to quiet time with God. When I sit down to have quiet time with God. I truly struggle with turning off my brain and truly focusing on his presence. Excited to come along side of you and learn this new journey.
Thanks for sharing!! That is so much my struggle. I turn to food before I turn to Jesus.
Amen! I am right with you, over eat and under pray. I’m looking forward to your series on sitting in the presence of God. I also watch a UA-cam channel called Barbara Frone, she is wonderful at sitting and listening to God and explaining herself. Hang in there, you are not alone. My prayer Bible has me reading more now and praying but I need to sit and listen. I am not good using devotionals either. But I love reading the Bible.❤
Over eat and under pray!!!! So well said. That’s me in a nutshell. And then you add adhd and everything is in chaos. Good thing God knows my heart. 🥰
I don’t like devotionals either. But I found a little book that really helps me get into the presence of God. It is called Simple Prayers, a Daybook of Conversations with God, by Kenneth and Karen Boa. It is mostly scripture with just a little bit of structure with sections each day: I Draw Near to You, God, Thank You for What You’ve Done, I Listen to Your Words of Truth, My Response to You, Lord. I have found it really helpful. - especially between structure and substance.
Thank you for the encouragement!
You get to be in the presence of God by faith. Its not a feeling. You have to believe in spite of how you feel. When we speak to Him, we are in His presence, whether you are speaking to Him in your mind at the supermarket or on your knees in your prayer closet or praying to Him at church, you are in His presence BY FAITH. God just wants the heart so just be honest with Him. Let Him know you want to hear from Him. All this thing about silence is borrowed from Eastern religion so try not to get caught up in that. God speaks to you through His word...to the law and the prophets, if they don't speak according to this there is just no light...zero light...in them Isaiah 8:10. He also speaks to us as well through nature and also through His providence. God is leading you. That prayer you prayed is exactly how you pray...from the heart, knowing your need. That prayer is similar to the ones I prayed in my need for Him. To go deeper. I could say much more. Do you have an email?That passion that you have for God's word is a gift from God. Blessings to you and your family.
Hi Nikki! I purchase the book, The Essential Presence by B Elliff and was hoping to do the study you recommended. Are you still planning on doing that?
Ladies are just reading along with me. I’m only doing videos as I feel led. There is one that I did last week. 😊 hope it is a blessing to you!!!
Well hello fellow ADHD sister! I could have said the exact words you are saying. I'm just now starting to build my own prayer bible and I'm learning a LOT lately about being in His presence, trusting Him, believing He is good and He is sovereign. Your words are spot on! I'm on the journey with ya!!
Thank you for traveling this road with me!
What do you mean exactly by praying in silence? 😅
I am not confident in my prayer to pray in front of others. Others pray much better/stronger than I. Yes I compare myself 😅
I know I lack in this too, you’re not alone in not praying as much. Thank you for your openness.
I mean just sitting quietly and listening to Him. 😊
I do not know how to pray… 😢 when I want to pray, it’s like my mind goes blank and I don’t know what to say! Where do I start? How do I make it make sense to me?
Start by praising Him and then just talk to Him like a friend. ❤️
I feel i fail big in this area as well 😢
We're in this together!
Nikki This is a a hard process to establish. Bible word study the word prayer take notes see what you see in them all, any guidelines, etc???One OLD book you might look at is PRACTING THE PRESENCE OF GOD by BRO. LAWRENCE I think it consider a Classic Christian Book. It's a short book but may be greatly loaded. I read it a long time ago and may reread it bec Prayer with God is lacking with me too.
Also Dr. Charles Stanley has some out that I think are very good!!!! Thanks Maybe work on Prayer notebook for our Prayer Divine Appointment with God. He will meet us there in fact He will be waiting for us!!! Love Marian
If you have time to open up the Bible, you have time to talk to God in prayer. I just did a video yesterday about this., and ii"m not a youtuber. God doesn't want you to just repeat to him scripture that you know. He wants a personal relationship with you. If you're driving in your car, talk to him. If you're going to the bathroom, talk to him. Cooking dinner, dusting, laundry... talk to him. Just like you do to the camera. How can we expect to have his attention if he doesn't have ours?
Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
Mark 2:27-28 NASB1995
God made us a day specifically to rest and spend time with Him. To refresh us and draw us closer to Himself to develop our relationship with Him. His letting the disciples pick grain, or Jesus healing, isn't work, it is telling me "you don't have to work everyday to survive, one day a week, rest in Me and I will take care of all your needs"
I'm also guilty.
We're in this together!
I know that it’s important to not make bible study or other spiritual activities a substitute for intentional prayer. But even in that isn’t God present with you? Aren’t you seeking him from your heart? When we can’t even read a bible verse in busy seasons with kids etc. God says he will never leave you and that you are always in his presence. God’s grace is sufficient. When your kids are grown up then you can sit and pray. And until then you can pray while you cook and clean. Now my kids need less attention so early mornings are good times. Please don’t condemn yourself. The devil is an accuser and wants to condemn God’s people but greater is He who is within you than he who is in the world. I love that Jesus poured out his grace even on the sinner. How much more should we who are redeemed know his love, live in his grace believing that He is sufficient and not put guilt on yourself by thinking you’re not doing enough when Jesus has done his finished work. It is by His grace alone that we live.
My prayer time varies according to the season but variety is good. Jesus prayed in all different contexts, and he sees your heart. God isn’t upset with you- or anyone who is his child seeking to honor and worship Him❤
This was so beautifully said.
you are doing the right things { & continue} but , but at this time you are being called away from always doing to - now being " Be" . called to His" Secret place" called to go 'Deeper for your self to build up your inner spirit man list the words Holy Spirit gives you - intimacy with the Beloved, He is mine & I am His, rest in Him " Called to the Secret Place" sit in silence Mother Teresa guote " for it is in the silence that God speaks"