Faith in everyday life
Prayer is not a language exam and not one more meeting in the calendar. It is saying what is true: thanks, help, sorry, I don’t get it. You can pray in your own words, quietly in the car, or read a psalm. He hears, even when it feels empty.
In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
What it means
Do not be anxious — meaning: stop carrying the worry alone. Take everything to God in prayer, with thanks. Then a peace bigger than understanding will guard heart and thoughts.
How you can live it
Write down what worries you before a meeting or a deadline. Pray one sentence for each thing. Thank for one small thing you already have. Then do the next task.
Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.
What it means
Var alltid glada, be utan uppehåll och tacka Gud i allt. Det står i allt — inte för allt. Du behöver inte vara glad över det svåra. Du kan ändå tacka mitt i det.
How you can live it
I en jobbig dag: en tack-mening (någon som lyssnade, mat, en vers) och en bön. Inte fejk-glädje.
A Song of Ascents. I will lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
What it means
You lift your eyes to the hills and ask: where does my help come from? From the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
How you can live it
When you do not know who can help: pray first. Then also ask someone you trust.
A prayer
Father, I do not always know how to pray. Hear even the sigh. Teach me to speak with you in ordinary words. Amen.