Another trap it is easy to fall into is the trap of comparing ourselves spiritually to others, feeling we are not good enough in the way we worship or communicate with God. I'm sure we can all think of somebody we have been around at church, a conference, or other church gathering who has just seemed so close to God, and looks completely engrossed in prayer or worship, making it look so easy and natural. In comparing yourself with them you feel like a failure, struggling so much to even pray a few words or to sing in tune.
I recently watched a TV recording from Soul Survivor, the youth summer festival. At one point the leader is demonstrating how (not) to pray for somebody. Although comical, it does reinforce how we tend to model ourselves on what we've seen. It is easy to fall into the trap of praying long, wordy prayers, telling God everything and forgetting He actually already knows! We may feel afraid or embarrassed to pray out loud for fear of using the wrong words. We've fallen into the spiritual comparison trap, feeling we have to be the same as somebody else we may have seen or heard praying.
"And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Matthew 6:7-8
God has made you unique, and has given you great gifts, unique to you, and given in order to be used. He allows us all the privilege of speaking to Him directly, and of seeking His help for both ourselves and for others. He doesn't care what words we use or how long our prayers are, He simply tells us to ask.
Today – go ahead and do that! If the opportunity arises for you to pray for somebody, do it, and don't be afraid. And give thanks to God that you are able to do that. Pray in your unique way, there's no need to feel inferior or to compare yourself to others. Your words and your way are just perfect.
Lord, I praise you for the gifts you have given me, and the freedom you allow for me to use them. Thank you that we can worship you freely and pray to you openly and constantly. Help me never to be afraid to use my gifts, and to pray and worship you in my own unique way, to glorify you. Amen.
Corinne Mason
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