The Measure

Recently in a large city, I took public transportation from a train station to the airport. I was struck by the lack of conversation around me. Almost everyone stared at some form of technology, such as a smart phone or a tablet. Clearly anyone could tell that the love of and dependence on technology had invaded the lives of these travelers. They were so reliant upon their devices for communication, entertainment, and knowledge.

I wonder what a random observer would determine about a room full of Christ followers? How could a stranger sitting in the pews measure our reliance on God? Would it be the style of worship, the quality of the sermon, or the architecture of the building? Would it be the kindness or patience we exhibited toward him or her, or our knowledge of the Bible?

Or getting even more personal, what would a bystander discover in my life? In your life? I have become convinced a primary measure of my dependence on God is prayer.

We have clear commands about prayer in the Bible: pray in every situation. (Philippians 4:6) Pray continually. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Jesus modeled God-dependent prayer in such an amazing way that it motivated his followers to ask, “Teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1).

Prayer is the evidence of a humble heart that seeks the wisdom, knowledge, strength and companionship of the Father. Do you want a measure of your dependence on God? Answer the question, “How often do I pray?”

Father, I confess my heart moves so naturally toward self-sufficiency and independence. I do need your touch and wisdom in every area of my life, and in interacting with the lives of those around me. I acknowledge it is foolishness to march through my days in pride and self-reliance. Help me understand how to walk humbly with you, marked by consistent, dependent prayer. Amen.

Go Deeper — Consider how prayer is an indicator or measure of your dependence on God. What is it that keeps you from engaging more in prayer or motivates you to pray?

To go even deeper, read Pray For God’s Sake.