Asking As If He Is Not Listening

"Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth."

Psalm 46:10

The other day, I prayed my way down a list of people and events that the Lord had placed on my heart. I had purposefully saved one name for last. For the past two months, I had been diligently knocking on heaven's door on this individual's behalf.

Mentally, I ordered several specific requests. As the first one formed on my lips, I sensed the Spirit's interruption. Rather than continue with the same line of thinking, I tried a different request. The same thing happened. After the third try, I had the distinct impression the Spirit was saying,

"You've already asked for all of these things."

I was stunned into silence.

And that's when I heard the questions:

"Do you believe I have heard you?'
Yes, Lord.

"Do you believe I am at work?"
Yes, Lord.

"Do you believe I am in charge?"
Yes, Lord.

"Do you believe My plan will prevail?"
Yes, Lord.

"Then, why do you ask Me as if I am not listening?"

Again, I was silent. Finally, I stumbled out a few unimpressive words...Wow. Good question. I see what You're saying. Forgive me. Let me try again...

This time I embraced the silence and entered into His presence, all the while acknowledging the fullness of all I had already asked on behalf of the person I was praying for. It was the equivalent of saying, "Please?"and after a long, long pause, humbly whispering, "Thank You."

Since then, I have been unable to get this encounter out of my mind. I can't help but hold it up in contrast to all the other ways I have been taught and practiced praying...

The times when I have been called to pray without ceasing.
The times when He has insisted I name my requests.
The times when I have been silent before Him with no idea what to ask for and that has been enough.
The time when He told me to quit talking and let Him pray because He knew best.

And now, You are telling me that sometimes there comes a point in praying for someone or something where I am to quit speaking my requests and sit in silent acknowledgment of Your faithfulness to answer in Your own perfect way.

For as long as I live, Abba, I pray that I never grow tired of learning Your ways. Thank You, for teaching me. I love You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.