Give me a quiet heart, God,
so that I can hear your firm,
but gentle voice teaching me the lessons
you give so lovingly, so wisely.

Lately, Father, it seems as though
a frigid winter has blanketed my spirits.
Gray days have covered me over with
harsh and heavy burdens.

Help me to remember
that you promised Noah both
winter and summer; seed time and harvest;
day and night; cold and heat.

Too often, Father, I remember
to pray in distress and need,
but forget to pray when I experience
abundance, joy and thanksgiving.

I cry out for your help and guidance
with tearstained eyes, only
to forget you when it is time
to share my laughter.

Help me to understand and remember that
my barren and difficult times are not a curse,
but part of a blessing and your wonderful,
exchanging gift of LIFE.

I ask you, Father, to teach me how to see
not just my darkness,
but also the joy that comes
with every dawn.

I ask these things in the name of Jesus,
who exchanged his life for ours,
and who gave hope to a world
as discouraged and sad as I am today.

Amen.

From the author's book, Hey God, Can We Talk?

www.worldprayers.org