One of my favorite activities with youth to get them talking about what they believe about God is to hand a small group of them an envelope full of random objects. Their task is to go through the envelope and share how each item reminds them of God. For example, someone might pull out a paper clip and say, “This makes me think of how God clings to us.” or “God has a way of binding things together.”
Those of you still struggling with praise can do a similar exercise just to get your mind moving. Praise in many ways at its essence is not much more than acknowledging the reality of who God is. So just for fun, grab some random objects take a moment and generate a list of how those things remind you of God. I am going to do it right now, share my results and then compose a prayer with it…..
…I am running around the house grabbing random items…
…okay, I’m back. So, here are my items.
1) A basket. I look at the basket and think of the time Jesus multiplied fishes and loaves and afterwards they had heaping baskets full of food left over because our God is a God of abundance. God exceeds our imagination. I also think about the passage where we are told not to put our candle under a bushel.
2) A pair of socks. God comforts me. In many ways God clothes me. I think of robes of righteousness and revelation. Which makes me think of God’s grace for eternity.
3) An old hard shell eye glasses case. God protects me.
4) A printer cartridge. Makes me think of text and letters. God is the alpha and omega. God gives us the word. He gave Moses the ten commandments and we have the scriptures.
5) A coaster. Coaster are a protective barrier. They prevent damage from happening. God protects us so that whatever is put upon us will not damage us.
6) A duster. God cleanses.
So, here is my prayer of praise from these random items.
I love and praise you God, because when you intervene miracles happen. You exceed our imaginations in ways that really don’t make sense. You are a God of great abundance. You comfort me. You cloth me in righteousness which makes me ready for all eternity. You protect me so that no matter how hard I may fall, I will not be broken. You give us your word and have for years and years. You protect and preserve me. No matter what is placed upon me I can bear it without harm if you are there. And even when I fall, you are there to prevent me from being harmed. I praise you Lord for cleansing me. You are an awesome and amazing God for these reasons and many more. Amen.
You see, some times we just need something to prompt our imaginations. Give it a try right now. This is kind of a fun exercise.
Peace and Blessings to You from The Practical Disciple
