Things to pray about

It has been a busy week here since returning from Easter vacation! I am busy with some consulting projects, some great new committees at church, the kids, of course, and trying to keep the dirt OUTSIDE and not on my floors (spring has sprung and the kids are tracking in mud everywhere!). But even in busyness, there has to come a time when you just sit and think for a minute (preferably times other than brief bathroom visits), and more importantly, times to pray. As a mom of three, I fight to get a moment of peace at times, and time to pray is a real struggle for me. My mind races from the minute I wake up about what needs to be done next. Sometimes I see my husband at the door at 5:00 and I realize that I HAVE a husband and a life that I haven't thought much about that day.

I attended my women's prayer group meeting today, and it was so good to take one hour away from the "daily grind" to pray for other people besides myself. I left there feeling very encouraged and positive, really as if I had just unshouldered a big burden and my heart could be light again. How I need that every day and not just once a week! The power of prayer is so potent-- not just for those we pray for, but for those doing the praying! Any suggestions from my readers out there? How do you carve out time? Is there a particular habit that works for you?

I am so conscious of telling others "I'll pray for you" and then not taking time to do it. My heart is always truly in it when I tell someone that, and sometimes I do say a quick prayer for that need right then. But not always. Any tips here on how to effectively remember others and not just my own agenda? I feel so badly when I forget to pray for someone. Sadly, I'm sure there are many times that I don't even remember that I forgot!

So a few things I am praying for tonight:
Lisa, a friend with a precarious pregnancy, praying for a miracle
Another friend who is really wanting to get pregnant
All my siblings, that they would trust in the goodness and sovereignty of God in all things
My church and our great need for a women's ministry and a men's ministry
My husband and his desire to grow in his spiritual leadership
My dear friends and family

And I am thankful for a God who hears us, who heals us, and who loves us. I can't imagine living life without knowing these truths.