A Prayer for Strength
By Colleen Swindoll Thompson
There is a book titled A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by author Eugene Peterson that puts into words the experiences of many who remain faithful to the Lord while their suffering continues without end. I have prayed the prayer below during such seasons and, today, this is my prayer for you. You may feel invisible to God, but He is near to your soul and listening to you.
Lord, my heart feels empty. Be gentle with me today for my strength is gone. I’m empty. I plead with you, Lord, to fill my soul with Your strength, which You promise me in Ephesians 3:20. Open my eyes to Your work within me. The trials You have allowed are serving to change my soul, even as my circumstances stay the same. Will You provide strength within to fulfill today’s activity?
Suffering puts our emotions on a roller coaster; trying to make sense of them is impossible. Because of that, I offer this absolute truth: God is faithful in the midst of your trials. He is providing you with the strength to endure. As the apostle Paul wrote, “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us” (Ephesians 3:20 MESSAGE, emphasis added).
Audio Suggestion:
Message Title: "Paul on His Knees . . . Again" (available on CD or MP3)
About the author
Colleen Swindoll Thompson
Colleen Swindoll Thompson holds a bachelor of arts degree in Communication from Trinity International University as well as minors in psychology and education. Colleen serves as the director of Reframing Ministries at Insight for Living Ministries. From the personal challenges of raising a child with disabilities (her son Jonathan), Colleen offers help, hope, and a good dose of humor through speaking, writing, and counseling those affected by disability. Colleen and her husband, Toban, have five children and reside in Frisco, Texas.
