Daily Hope for the Empty NestSample

Keeping a Prayer Journal

In addition to writing down your special memories in a notebook or a journal, the early part of a new year or season is also a perfect time to start keeping track of your prayer life. Prayer is a direct conversation with God. As we spend more time alone in the empty nest, we can appreciate the blessing of more quiet time for drawing closer to God in our personal prayer time.

There are different types of prayers in the Bible. In God’s Word, we can find prayers of both confession and contrition and prayers of deliverance that help us in dealing with our own struggles. We may turn to God with prayers of lament, or we may pray for healing and intercession on behalf of those we love. We can offer prayers of thanksgiving and adoration, and we can also offer prayers as a request for blessings.

In today’s scripture verse, we are reminded that we are not only invited but encouraged to bring everything to God. What a great blessing to know that we always have God’s listening ear, especially in this season of life when we sometimes feel very alone.

Prayer

God, please remind me that You are always available to hear my prayers. Amen.

Exercise

Create a special book for writing down your daily prayers. Evaluate the types of prayer you most often pray and try to determine what you are seeking most from God.