But you, when you pray, go into your room and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place.

~Matthew 6:6a NKJV

Nineteen children. That’s right. John Wesley’s mother, Susanna, had a very large family so she was constantly busy.

When she wanted to be alone with the LORD and pray, she would pull her apron up over her head. Then the children would know not to disturb her. They knew she was having quiet time with her Savior. She was in her “prayer closet” as she sat in her chair, covered by her apron.

You can have a “prayer closet” too.  Or maybe you have a prayer chair–one that has been in your family for years. Perhaps it is covered in a lovely rose pattern but with faded and worn places on the arm rest, having been used by Mother and Grandmother as they took time to be alone with the Lord Jesus. This chair may bring many memories to mind such as the well-used Bible lying on the table beside the chair and the worn rug where grandmother kneeled. Here in your prayer chair you can pour out your heart, praise Jesus, sing to Him, read the word to Him, or just listen for Him to speak to you, and find strength for the challenges of the day.

Even if you have a lot of children, or other responsibilities, take time to be with the Lord. The enemy of our soul tries to make sure that we stay busy, and have no time left to spend with Jesus. The wicked one wants us to be tired, discouraged, or too distracted to go into our prayer closet.  Take time to praise Jesus and share your concern.  He will renew your strength for the challenges that you may experience.

Share the location of your “prayer closet.”

Lord Jesus, thank You for the opportunity to come to You, for You are always ready to hear from us. As we turn our hearts to You, Lord, meet us.

Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2019: The Prayer Closet: Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved  

Published: May 2020: Christian Devotions Ministries: Martin Wiles, Managing Editor; Cindy Sproles, Executive Editor