"In everything give thanks."
- I Thessalonians 5:18

I found myself doing it again tonight.

I order a lot of things online and tonight was no exception.   I own a software program that creates eBooks (electronic books) and I had the developer create a special tool to add more functions to my software.  Of course, I had to pay for the service.

So, tonight, I went to their secure server, whipped out my credit card and made payment for their work. 

The first thing that I noticed when I arrived at their website order form were the blanks.  Of course, I had to fill in the blanks to complete my order.  I entered my name, address, phone number, credit card information, etc.  Then, I clicked the "Submit" button and the transaction was complete.

As I thought about that tonight, I recognized that every form that I have ever filled out online has the same basic blanks that need to be input.  There are blanks available for name, address, phone number and payment information on every order form.  Each time I visit a site, I simply enter in the appropriate information.

You know, I find that prayer also has some consistent blanks that need to be filled in.  No, the Lord doesn't ask for our name and address and He isn't looking to make a phone call anytime soon.  He certainly doesn't need our credit card number.  But, He is looking for some blanks to be filled in during our prayer time.

What blanks?  Blanks like CONFESSION.  Each time we pray there is a blank there that needs to be filled in.  What sins do I need to confess and repent? Fill in the blank.____________.

There is also the blank of THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE.  What would I like to express my gratitude to my Savior about today?  Fill in the blank. ______________.

Of course, there is also the blank of INTERCESSION.  What needs of those around me do I need to ask the Lord to meet?  Fill in the blank. ________________.

There are more blanks like PETITION and ACKNOWLEDGMENT.  What needs of my own do I need to bring before the throne?  What part of God's will do I need to acknowledge and yield myself to?  Fill in the blanks. ________________.

Now, don't get me wrong.  Prayer isn't an order form.  Too many times it gets treated like that.  Prayer is a screen full of blanks that need to be filled in each day, based on the circumstances of that day.  There is always something to give thanks and praise for.  There are always sins that need to be confessed.  There are always needs for ourselves and others to bring before God.

Christian, have you prayed yet this morning?

If not, take some time to fill in those blanks!

Have a "Wonderful DAY in Christ,"
Jimmy D. Brown
\o/ Praise Jesus!