Last fall I began reading a series of books – “The Mitford Series” Which is a lovely set of novels that totally stole my attention from all important matters and immersed me into the lives of beloved characters. I honestly have NO IDEA what I will do when I turn the last page of the final book.
At any rate, in the beginning of the first book one character shows resolve, in every situation, to pray the prayer that never fails. No matter the circumstance, his heart and mind turn in that direction. He goes through some rough stuff over the years, and it is always his “go-to” prayer.
What is that prayer you ask?
It is one short phrase from the middle of the Lord’s Prayer. “Thy Will Be Done.”
Let me be honest – initially I thought it was silly to take theological thoughts from a novel seriously. Then I believed myself to be spiritually short-sighted for not thinking of it myself. But, over time I’ve taken the short prayer for my own.
In my own life, where I attempt to be in control of plans and outcomes far too often, this mode of operation is terribly important. At first I thought it was just for when I was at the end of my rope, but now I know better. It is for every possible moment – and I find myself thinking it all the time!
Thy will be done:
In my kitchen, when I’m baking
In my dining room, with my children and their home schooling.
In our home, and all of the relationships with family and friends.
In my children’s choir lessons, or at the piano when I teach.
At our church,
In our city, in our country
Each bit of work
All of our activities
Every thought… every word…
The list goes on and on. Some things are easier to place in His hands than others. Sometimes it’s easier to really mean this prayer when I’m praying for others, than when I’m praying it for myself. However, I’ve never been so relieved, to come to the fresh realization that I don’t have to make things happen – I can rely on His will for what is best in every situation. He never fails.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
daily portion 