Forty Days of Prayer - Day 30
Exodus 8: 8-10
Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, "Pray to the LORD to take the frogs away from me and my people and I will let your people go to offer sacrifices to the LORD."
Moses said to Pharaoh, "I leave to you, the hour of setting the time for me to pray for you, and your officials and your people that you, and your houses may be rid of the frogs, except for those that remain in the Nile."
"Tomorrow," Pharaoh replied.
Oh, girls! Could there be any more convicting lesson in our 40 day prayer journey than a lesson on NOW?
Doesn't it seem bizarre that Pharaoh was given the opportunity to choose the time when the annoying frogs would no longer cover Egypt and his choice was tomorrow? I'm picturing the annoyance of frogs everywhere, on everything, and in everything. But, Pharaoh thought for a moment and chose to keep the frogs a little longer. He'd made peace with the frogs enough to manage with the irritation one more day.
It seems crazy, but I've done the exact same thing so many times. Have you?
I remember times that God has led me to the perfect scripture to pray for my children. At that moment, I knew I needed to write that verse out, put it on a card, and tape it in a prominent place to remind me to pray daily. I knew God was leading, and I reasoned that I'd do it tomorrow.
I remember how often I've prayed for more discipline in life, in work, and in relationships. At those times, God led me to a specific change I could make in my lifestyle, yet I decided I'd make that change later.... as soon as my current Netflix series ends.
Sadly, I remember plenty of circumstances where I've prayed for opportunities to invest in the lives of others in ways that matter and make a difference; but, as soon as God opened the door or showed me a life I could invest in, I reasoned that another time would be better.
It's been so exciting to look for miracle sightings during this journey. God has opened my eyes to the little steps that I can take each day to move closer to the impossible prayers on my list. Immediate action is something I struggle with. But, moving as soon as God directs is a faith builder.
Today, let's ask God for some NOW steps towards our impossible prayer answers. Why put off until tomorrow what can be done today? :). Together, let's ask God to make us miserable in our apathy. When He gives us to chance to step NOW, let's ask for the faith to refuse to say anything other that, "Yes!"
Dear Lord, Why would I wait to receive ALL that You have planned for me? Give me the courage to ask for answers, provision, and favor now. Don't allow me to label a fear or failure to ask for immediate answers as contentment. Show us the difference and give us hearts to run hard, fast, and promptly towards Your excellent plans.
