God Responds to Arrow Prayers

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  Conversing with God looks different for everyone, but at some time or other we all shoot arrow prayers heavenward. I do it often. It happens when I’m traveling by plane and a spiritual conversation opens with a fellow passenger. On one occasion a woman beside me said, “I’m on a personal quest. I’m searching for peace. Have you found it?” I shot an arrow prayer before answering: “God, give me the right words.” I shoot arrow prayers when driving down the highway. “God, safety.” I shoot them when needing inspiration for my writing assignments: “God, creativity.” I shoot them…

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Joy is Strength

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In writing our first in the series of Discovering the Bible: Discovering Hope in the Psalms: A Creative Bible Study Experience, we dug into the familiar passage of Psalm 1. Immediately, my heart began a consistent prayer, Lord, make me a strong Psalm 1 tree! The first time I read that psalm, evn as a child, I knew I wanted to be one of those trees that no storm, no wind, no natural disaster could topple– but reflecting on the Psalm now, more than 50 years later, I see through life experience, just HOW MUCH we need God to help…

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Express Line Prayers

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Express Line Prayer By Darlene Franklin Waking up early is one thing. Waking up for a date with a needle is another. “Good morning!” A cheerful, African-accented voice called out. “I’m here to draw your blood.” I placed my right arm on top of the blankets and closed my eyes so I didn’t have to watch. Needle sticks often took three attempts or more. My hands and arms stayed black and blue from broken blood vessels. I prayed that somehow, this time would go more easily. Imagine my surprise when I peeked and saw a vial filling with my blood….

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