Back in January, at the start of the new year, we agreed to begin our year knowing that prayer changes things. Inspired by a post at (in)courage by the same title, I rolled out the big ream of drawing paper. And we all gathered around.
Each added their own prayer requests. Some of serious nature, needs of friends and family and some just plain dreaming big.
Each request seemed giant in its own way.
Fast forward to September. Nine months later. I was cleaning out stacks of artwork at the kitchen chalkboard. Guess what I found? That neatly rolled up paper full of requests.
I unrolled it and saw written proof of His provision.
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. Matthew 6:33
Real answers to requests. Many we’d recognized earlier in the year but forgotten.
Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the nations from the time I (first) spoke to you during Josiah’s reign until today. Jeremiah 36:2 ~ Today’s Bible verse on Lil’ Buddy’s take home page
So this. This is why He told His people to write it down. Because we think that we’ll remember. We’ll tell the children. But sometimes we just plain forget. Unless we write it down and we find it later and reread it. We are reminded of specific ways He loves us and provides and answers.
So, that night at supper, we all gathered around. And we read the Prayer Changes Things list. This – check. And that – check. Who knew He’d answer in that way? Oh His way is best. And His answer always comes exactly when we need it. Gifts! each one. Proof for the children. Right there for all to see. Because we wrote it down.
You have because you ask not. Ask. Seek. Knock.
Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7
Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. James 1:5
Soooo true! I looked back on one of my journals a few years ago for a bible study and was extremely blessed to see page after page of longing and crying out to God (and I know other journals for prior years had the same)and realizing I no longer cry out or have those longings or trust issues with Himi…..He had revealed His character on my heart and I no longer questioned that part of my life or Him. It was amazing. I had such peace, healing and rest and didn’t even realize the “date” the change happened but I for sure saw the YEARS before! Thanks for sharing. We do forget!
What a lovely idea! So simple and yet one I had not thought to do. I have done it in my own prayer journal…but to do as a whole family project. Thank you for sharing this with us.
The list of “Ten Desires of My Heart” that I keep in my Bible…the one that I wrote over 15 years ago…almost all have been answered! Some, not to my liking at the time, but thankfully God’s wisdom ruled out! Still waiting on two or three on the list…I have learned patience in my old age!
Living proof! He is the provider – big and small – in all! Thank you for sharing your answered prayer Jenny and Nana. Love to hear it. And Phyllis – I’m grateful this idea was shared at (in)courage. A wonderful habit to build. I, too, had only written in my own journal. And this ‘scroll’ is wonderfully practical to keep near the supper table.
I love this. First, how wonderful for your family to review the requests made several months ago and see — witness — God’s provision. Second, I admire the wisdom of writing things down. If I don’t write it, I forget it! But also, I’ve often heard that getting down on paper your specific dreams or goals gives them a life, so to speak, outside of your mind. You have proven it works for prayer as well. Blessings!
Yes, Ellen, I agree with the writing down of goals and dreams gives them life. And giving the children a chance to write down whatever they want to write – is fun! Thank you for your sweet comment.
WHat a beautiful post…I’m inspired to do the same:) xoxo
So simple and yet – to see! Blessings Jenny.
I am still learning this lesson…was not part of my growing up. My children are a different story. They make everything a matter of prayer and my Amanda has learned the power of being specific in her prayers this year. 39 days until she leaves for perhaps a new life…exciting to see the blessings that have been poured on her, the doors that opened, and the people she has touched with her example, including her mom. Keeping a written record of answered prayers is something that I need to start. Thanks Tricia for the reminders.
Barb I am so thrilled for Amanda’s new adventure. I know we will ‘see’ His hand and provision in so many ways through her experiences. So powerful to see answered to prayers lifted months, years before. I agree!
Ladies, I have to say that I am so thankful I wrote this down well over a year ago – to remind myself yet again!
Thank you Tricia, you inspire me in many ways! I appreciate you and the way you share your wisdom with us 🙂
Felina – thank you so much for your sweet words! They came at just the right time for this mama 🙂