Daily Delight

As a young child, I learned that prayer was the only way I got to talk to God. “Dear God,” I would begin. And then a ramble of requests to the Almighty Father spilled from my lips. Behind closed eyes, I imagined tiny spiritual papers floating up from kneeling, somber bodies, swirling upward, joining with others, creating a giant cluster of prayers and wishes that magically settled on a large desk nestled in the clouds. I prayed another prayer hoping that my own little prayer wouldn’t get lost in God’s giant inbox.As I got older, my prayers sounded more like negotiations: “God, if you let me pass this test, I promise to never swear at my sister again.” Some prayers even reached the point of begging: “God, please let Bobby like me. Please! Please!” And while most of my adolescent prayers were shallow, even those that were of a more serious nature were still childish and self-centered.Now that I’m older with children of my own, I’m wondering if my prayer life has matured along with me. Is prayer still a series of requests that I slide into God’s inbox? Am I still asking for the things I want rather than thanking God for blessing me with the things I need? Am I still self-centered?Paul tells us that we should “Rejoice always, pray constantly; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, CSB). Do I rejoice always? Am I in constant conversation with God? Am I living as if the Holy Spirit resides in me? To be honest, I probably could do better. But then again, He’s still working on me, and He’s not done with me yet. And He’s not done with you!Father, I am so thankful for your beautiful daughter reading these words, for she is Yours. You wait patiently each day, each moment, for her to meet You, to draw near to You, to snuggle into Your awaiting embrace. You whisper upon her heart words that speak of love beyond comprehension. Let our hearts continuously rejoice in the warmth of You, leading us, protecting us, and loving us. Forever. 

About the Author

Jennifer Tanaka

Jenn is currently enjoying navigating the path as a mom of three with her husband of fifteen years. Born and raised in Honolulu, HI, she still resides in her home state, discovering and sharing the beauty of her Heavenly Father through writing and photography.

In the last two years, Jenn has been following her calling to write for women who, like her, are yearning to draw closer to Jesus. Leaving her full-time position in education, she now enjoys spending more time with her family and serving the women in her local and online communities.