An embarrsing problem!

That happens to all of us.

 

Prayer is a discipline. It is one of the hardest "works" that a Christian can do, primarily because the devil will fight you every step of the way. Your mind wandering is not uncommon, but very common. Have a place where you are entirely alone. Have a Bible with you, and perhaps even a hymn book. Sometimes wheh your mind starts to wander, start reading Scripture to get your mind back on track on again, or sing a hymn of devotion or praise. Another good suggestion is simply to have a prayer list--definite things and people to prayer about. That way you can keep your mind focused on the things that are written down before you. Don't worry, your problem is not uncommon.

The devil trembles when he sees a Christian on his knees. But at the same time he tries to do everything in his power from keeping him there.
Take heart.
DHK

 

Amen to DHK's comments!

 

I'll "second" that, Craigbythesea!

Read through the four gospels and jot down the times when Scripture tells us when Jesus was out praying---His disciples were off in "La-La Land"----He'd get on to 'um----"Watch and pray, boys!" "What?? You can't hang with me for an hour??" " Sleepin' again??????!!! Nevertheless!"----of course, these quotes are paraphrase---but you get the idea!!

 

This also happens when Im reading,Not just the bible but anything, I'll finish reading and not know what I read because my mind was somewere else.

 

It's called "being normal".

 

If it is really a problem, which it is with me (although Barry is able to spend long times in prayer), then pray short prayers through the day as you go. Pause in what you are doing for a short praise and quiet time and maybe a request. For me, this way keeps me more focused on my Lord through the day. It's the way I eat, too! Short small meals frequently. I seem to be wired for that sort of thing!

 

Helen gives some good advice. Also I enjoy praying out loud which helps me to keep my mind from wandering.

 

I try to journal my prayers. It helps to keep me focused and humble when I go back and see How God answers my prayers.

 

I am a person who is usually pretty busy and I have a lot of things on my mind. Here are two things that help me focus.

First, I keep a scratch pad handy. When thoughts come into my mind while I am praying, I write them down to think about later. Second, I try to find a relaxing setting and give myself a few minutes to unwind before I attempt to pray. Often I pray in weird places that help me focus.

By the way, remember that God knows your heart and your feebleness. I guess maybe that is why the Spirit maketh intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.

 

when asked how much time he spent in prayer,
C. H. Spurgeon replied...

"I have never prayed for more than 5 minutes...but I have never gone more than 5 minutes without praying."

Sounds like he had the "pray without ceasing" concept down.

Max

 

It seems like we sometimes place an overemphasis on the time spent in pray...more so than the earnestness of our heart toward communicating with God.

Just my thoughts,
Max

 

Don't feel bad. It happens all the time.

I agree. If we look at the example that Christ gave us, it is not long and stretched out like many of us tend to do.

Matthew 6:7,8 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

Matthew 6:9-13 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

That's about a 30 second prayer at most.

 

Sounds like to me you're ... uh, what did you ask again?

 

Happens to everyone. Once it occurred to me that when I tell thank my mother for something, I say "Thanks, mom". Yet, when I want to thank God, I've been conditioned to go into some verbose sililoquy that must be at least 20 words of less. Says who? So now I simply just say "Thanks, Lord".

 

Hey Bruren,

Sounds like everyone's mind wonders from time to time. The fast paced world we live in doesn't lend itself to focused thought. I don't think I would be embarrassed though, unless ummm... this doesn't happen when you're praying out loud does it???

 

Greetings Helen:

As always, good advice. That is why I always enjoy your posts so much!!

Wishing God's Blessings on both you and Barry,
BiR

 

Peter's mind went to sleep ( a trance) and he dreamed about 4 footed beast. great Revelation came to him. If your mind wanders ask god if While the mind is wandering if He can teach you through this.