AS FOR ME - Michael Neale

What Does Prayer Do For You?

Prayer has become such an important part of my life.   I depend on prayer for the most insignificant needs. Driving, working, eating and everything I do revolves around prayer.  If scared or worried I go to prayer.  My prayer begins "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost".  

I had a medical procedure today. It worked out fine, but during the process I relied on prayer.  Of course I do realize that it's not going to make everything ok, but it gives me hope.  Until I lived by myself, I was kind of a haphazard proponent of prayer.  Now that my job and everything I do depends on my success to keep my house and income, it has become a very important part of my life.

The pastor showed us how he positioned his hands in a cupped version with palms up, as if accepting blessings into your soul when praying.  There is no right method and I feel like it really is not important.  I just want to  make the most out of my prayers.  I have had so many co-workers lose their jobs and I lift them up in prayer.  There are too many requests in my life to mention, but it helps me get through the day.  When times are tough, it's the one thing that gives me assurance.  I want to be strong, but I am nothing without the power of prayer. I am just a girl praying for the best outcome for those I know and love.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 | NIV 

In the Name of ..........

My memories of Easter consist of new white shoes, a beautiful dress, and possibly some accessories.  I dreaded the shoes because my feet were big for my body, and white makes the foot look like a boat.  White shoes with a gangly thin body make an embarrassing profile.  The best Easter Bunny visit was a new swimsuit, a bucket with shovel for the sandbox, and a colored baby chick.  The chicken became full grown and I treated him like any other pet holding and petting him.  When I was very young my mom told me that the Easter Bunny was retiring.  I just took it in stride, but quickly decided it must be a money issue. I feel the same way when we do not get raises at work.  Say goodbye to the Easter Bunny.

I loved Saturday night with a Prell shampoo and some pampering with my hair. I was fascinated with Prell and the commercials of a pearl dropping through the bright green liquid.   The next day we were off to church followed by a nice lunch with relatives.

Easter has always been a great experience that I still fondly remember with my boys.  It was always something to look forward too.  This all changes with aging parents and children that move away.  It's not quite the same, but we do the best we can.  Friends sometimes substitute the holiday that parents used to fill.  I have encountered much joy this Easter with over zealous fun loving holiday people.  We are always looking for hope and a joyous occasion to celebrate.

I hope the day and year brings health, happiness and prosperity in the Name of Jesus.  

Happy Easter!

Michael Neale - Your Great Name