June 27, 2010.

I wanted to start posting about some changes I've had since I accepted Christ into my life. I've spoke of some of these changes before, but when you sit back and think about it you realize just how much Jesus has affected me.

I have begun to pray. Not the kind of prayer you spout out when you're frustrated with a problem you're having...or the kind of prayer you say when you really want something material. (ya know, like a new car or cell phone) I'm talking serious talking with God. Every once in awhile someone on my friends list on Facebook will ask for prayers for something. It might be for someone who is ill, or for a serious problem in their life. When I read this...I will stop momentarily and say a prayer for that person.

In church during the time when you can ask for prayers for things...I have begun jotting down in a small notebook the different prayers people are asking for. Then, during the week I will periodically take that notebook out and read these requests and say a prayer for them.

We have had a weekly gathering at my church called BUMP. Brushwood United Methodists in Prayer. I've mentioned that here in my blog in the last couple of weeks. Those who feel called gather at the church on Wednesday evenings and for 45 minutes we all sit in silent prayer in the sanctuary. I take my Bible to this along with my little notebook. During that time I say my own prayers...as well as pray for the prayer requests I find in my notebook.

Praying out loud in front of others is still a challenge for me...but, I have done it a couple times in the last month. It still feels a bit awkward and I sometimes find my mind will have trouble connecting to my mouth when I pray out loud...but, I'm getting better.

Two months ago I never voluntarily took it upon myself to pray. I was one of those people who would just pray when it was convenient for me...when I wanted something, or was frustrated with something.

This is one area where I am changing....and it's change I really love!!!!

In upcoming blog posts I'm going to talk about what other ways I have changed.