overflowing with gratitude

This evening I was able to identify one reason for my relatively unfruitful prayer life. I thank God that He has brought me closer to a life of prayer without ceasing--I am much further in this walk than I was four years ago. He has been gracious.

I feel like my prayers lately have become sort of passing requests. My life feels overwhelming right now, and it's easy to gloss over things in order to save my energy. I'm finding that it's harder to invest deeply in people and activities because my energy is drained. Because of this, my prayers have become something quick. Something similar to, "Hey Dad, can I borrow the car?" When the answer is yes, I respond with, "Hey thanks!"

I see fruit even in these prayers because of God's faithfulness. I really am seeking the Lord, but I feel as though I am not seeking Him to the depths that I would like.

I would love to see my prayers become more like, "Dad, I need a car. Is there anyway that you can help me get one? I don't have any resources, and I don't know how to go about it. Can you help me look for one, or do you know someone who is selling right now?" Then, when he surprises me with one in front of my house, my heart with overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving.

I believe that God hears my prayers even when I forget that he hears them. But I also sense that God is calling me into a deeper life of prayer, one that understands and responds accordingly to the truth that the Creator and Sustainer of the universe hears me and loves to answer me.

Father, help me to press on into deeper relationship with you through Jesus. Call me closer by your Spirit, and help me to respond with faith and an unshakable love for you. Give me a deeper understanding of your consistent, sustaining presence. Provide me with an overwhelming wonder at your grace and glory and an unquenchable thirst for you alone.