New Years and the Five Finger Prayer

One of the greatest challenges that we have is the consistent follow through when making a resolution. Hey, it is the last day of 2006 and the soon to be 2007 is right around the corner. All of us think about the possible changes in our lives as we look at the new year coming.

For myself the one area that is the closest to my heart is the area of prayer. As a pastor you may figure that this would be a concern. Prayer is part of my job – right?

Well not exactly… you see, I feel prayer is one of the most important things that I need to have as part of my personal life and ministry – even if I was not a pastor. Prayer matters to me… it matters a whole lot. Prayer makes a great difference in ordinary lives and ordinary days. It turns things around and opens new possibilities to the extra-ordinary.

I need prayer. Do you? Or have you recognized the need for prayer?

Would you take a new step with me – and pray?

The following “Five Finger Prayer is a good start for our kids – little ones and big one alike.

~ Pastor Murray ~
PS- Thanks Diane

Five Finger Prayer
This is beautiful - and it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.

1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And lastly comes our little finger - the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.