Mark 8:11-13
The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore. Mark 8:11-13 (NASB1995)
Do you ever look for a sign from God? Have you ever begged for or demanded a sign from God…”God, please just give me a sign!”? So many times, I’ve been guilty of this demanding prayer when I've been in doubt about what to do or what will happen next. I get impatient and turn into my problems and they seem to get bigger. Making big decisions has been hard for me and I’ve found myself in this prayer way too often. There are times when I look for something abnormal to proclaim God's presence. Many times I’m even too busy or distracted in an experience that it's not until I reflect back that I realize how God was working in my life.
What Jesus wants is faith in him and in his words, not in signs and miracles. Often, there are no signs of something abnormal. Prayer is a time of faith. When I am aware of my blessings, it’s transformative. It feels better when I start with thanksgiving for all my blessings in prayer. I immediately see how God is working and fighting for me when I am still. God continually loves us and is at work in our hearts in prayer.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you looking for a sign from God? What happens when you don’t get what you are looking for?
- How often do you reflect about your day? Did you see God today? Where? How?
Prayer
Dear Gracious God,
Thank you for your constant and gentle love. Thank you for the blessings on this day and working in my life. Forgive me for being so demanding in my prayers. Help me be still, listen more and demand less to you. Let my faith in you be as constant as your love to me. Thank you for being my constant. Amen
About the Author:
Cindy Braun- I’ve been a member of Southwood for over twenty years and love the servant hearts of our church. I’ve enjoyed traveling on mission trips with the youth group and to Honduras. I’m a first grade teacher and love being outdoors, decorating, and exercising. I enjoy spending time with my two children, family, and friends.
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