Trying to build a prayer life can be difficult—whether you don’t know how to pray or you don’t feel like praying. So we’re here to help you connect with God with simple prayers for the everyday.
When Will It Be My Turn?
Written by Lydia Peters, Clarks Summit University
We’re commanded to “rejoice with those who rejoice” and to “mourn with those who mourn.” Our broken state often makes mourning easy. We see the suffering of others, and our hearts cry with them. It’s often harder to rejoice in the joy of others, especially when they receive what we’ve been longing for.
Joy lights up the face of a dear friend, excited for this new stage in life—a dream job, an engagement, a baby. And you’re left behind, wondering why God won’t give you what you desire. We know His plans are perfect and far above what we could dream and hope for, but it feels a little hard to believe that right now. And while He may not give us what we want, now or ever, we’re asking for the faith to remember He’s preparing something better. So, at least for a bit, we’re going to put aside our own desires.
This moment isn’t about you. Although the pain seems like a spit in the face, it isn’t. God is moving and blessing one close to you! So, for a few moments, let us lay our longings aside to celebrate with one experiencing God’s blessing. It doesn’t make your pain any less real, but it doesn’t need to be the focus of this moment, your friend’s celebration.
For those times we find it hard to celebrate good news with those around us, here’s a verse and a prayer that might help.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15).
Prayer for Struggling to Rejoice With Others
God of giving and withholding, thank you for your perfect plan. Help me to share in the joy of others, even as my heart aches. I don’t understand what plan you have for me or why they’re receiving this blessing while I’m left waiting. Remind me that the visible blessing of others doesn’t diminish the ways I’m loved and blessed by you. Let my heart not be tinted green with jealousy, but teach my heart to long ever more for you. Amen.
Prayers for everyday life are hard to come up with on the spot! If you’re in need of more simple prayers visit this page to help you connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, everyday moments of life!
