Starting the Day in Prayer

Reflection

I am a morning person. By the end of the day, I’m often ready for bed or struggling to process anything mentally. There is a beauty about the quietness of the morning. People are not yelling, demanding, or interrupting constantly. My focus is better, and I can pray without the distractions that seem to come later in the day. I always notice the door knocks, the calls, and the interruptions when I try to pray in the afternoon or evening.

When I start my day in prayer, my whole day feels steadier. Psalm 5 reminds us of the necessity of prayer and the importance of submitting our day and requests to the Lord, not just once, but often. David was praying continually, bringing his needs before God, and waiting with expectation. I love the Hebrew meaning of “looking up” here. It implies leaning forward, peering into the distance, waiting expectantly for an answer. It encourages me to trust that God hears me in a way no one else can and responds in a way that is best for me.

Starting the day in prayer doesn’t just organize our schedules, it organizes our hearts. It is a quiet, steady time with the One who knows all and cares deeply. Even a few moments spent in communion with Him can set a tone of peace, expectation, and joy for the hours ahead.

Often we find it comforting to speak to someone else about our struggles, and there is nothing wrong with that. But I used to find myself talking more to them and less bringing my requests and cares to God. All I was doing was having ranting sessions that never produced anything. Our friends and family, though they may know us to some degree, are limited in knowing what is truly best for God’s plan and limited in the power to act. But with God, nothing is limited. When we bring our hearts, our needs, and our day to Him, we are placing them in the hands of the One who knows all, sees all, and works all things for our good. Let this encourage you to lean on Him first and let your prayers shape your day and your heart.