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TRUST JESUS TODAY

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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Minute(s) (as in time) (03/03/11)
The mammoth pewter colored Federal Express cargo jet noisily descends past my home on its’ approach to the nearby airfield.
Dear God, please protect that aircraft and the people on board.

A small black dog is running through the traffic, obviously scared and knowing not where to go.
Dear God, please protect that little dog and get him safely home.

An unkempt man sits in front of the convenience store, appearing forlorn and hopeless.
Dear God, please touch that man’s soul.
___________________

These are a few of the quick petitions to God that I make throughout the day. I’ve heard somewhere that these types of prayers are referred to as “dart prayers” for they are aimed at a specific target. I prefer to call them Minute Prayers, for the time involved to see the need and then to follow through with the request to God.

The Bible encourages us to “Pray continually.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17. NIV) We need to always be in communication with God; not just in petition but also in listening. Is God telling me to rescue the lost dog or give money to the panhandler? We all have good excuses for not heading the voice of God: “I can’t stop now; need to get to work” or “I just don’t want to deal with the outcome.” Another excuse that I’ve used is that the transient will just use the money for alcohol anyway, and it’s my hard-earned money.

There have been incidents where I felt a nudging to react to a situation, but chose not to follow through. I then felt guilty for not obeying and asked God for a second chance. He always gives another situation for me to show obedience. It is when I obey and do the task, my heart feels good for I’ve pleased the Lord, and helped someone in need.

Have my Minute Prayers been effective? I’ve often pondered that question, but most likely will never know the answer. Really, it’s not important to know how many lives may have been saved or touched, but rather, how obedient I am in listening and hearing God - if only just for a moment.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Helen Carr
03/10/11
I really enjoyed reading this piece. It's true, more often than not we are unaware of the effect of our minute prayers, but God knows and that's all that matters.

I also say these throughout the day. One example is, since the day my dad took an unscheduled ride in an ambulance, I have been saying minute prayers for the intendent recipient/s of sirens that pass our house, which happens as often as 3 or 4 times a day.
Jeanette Oestermyer
03/11/11
An interesting article and I'm sure most of us have been there. Well-written and to the point.
Nancy Bucca
03/11/11
This has many "minute bites" to ponder. I think it would make a wonderful devotional.
Bonnie Bowden 
03/13/11
Very thought provoking message. Am I going to be like the good samaritan or the others who walk by? I try to listen to the voice of God in a very discerning way. Sometimes, panhandlers will use the money for alcohol or cigarettes, but I ask if they would like me to pay for their food at a nearby restaurant or fast food establishment.
Leola Ogle
03/13/11
Loved this. I have always been a one-minute-prayer person. How delightful to see it put so wonderfully in written form God bless!
Norma-Anne Hough
03/15/11
well written and has lots of food for thought.
I think we all say minute prayers and you have put it across so beautifully.
Well done.
Norms
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
03/17/11
I really enjoyed this simple, but oh so important message to pray. I try to pray when I hear a siren,a name called on a loudspeaker, or the phone rings. Thanks for more ideas to pray without ceasing.
Kathleen Langridge
03/17/11
Barbara, I too send up minute prayers and have for years. I know one day we will know the results in eternity. Thanks for the special treatment of the subject very encouraging.