Talking It Over with Dad

Emily was reciting the Lord’s Prayer at church when the third petition hit her with renewed meaning. She decided to set aside some time that Sunday afternoon to consider her prayer life more seriously.

Exhausted from caregiving, Emily asked herself a question. Am I praying for the Lord’s will or for my own? Was she more interested in righteousness or relief?

As Emily read the Lord’s Prayer again, she realized that her obedience to God was the key. He had assigned her this caregiving role, and He would provide the energy to see it through. As others watched her obey the Lord and depend on His strength, they would also see her love for Christ, her desire to see His kingdom come and His will be done. After all, isn’t that the test of discipleship—day-to-day obedience?

When Emily stood up to return to her caregiving work, her body was still tired. But, somehow, a new joy was seeping into her soul. She was obeying God, and He had promised to be her helper. Surely, her heavenly Father would provide. He always did.