DAY 146 -- Creating Phrases That Uplift Rather Than Condemn

I have preached often that there is nothing too difficult for the Lord.  It is contained in the scriptures many places.  It is something that we need to keep in mind whenever we are pursuing a mission, as we are.

Thus I wonder as I sit and ponder about the things that need to be done to get us ready, is there anything that we should not pray for?  Could we pray for things that will hurt us, thwart our progress toward the goals that FATHER has for us?

With our limited sight of what is on the "plans" for each of us, I would imagine that we may be praying for something that is not in His best interest for our mortal education.  I know this is just words, but let me explain.

As I am in the financial frame of thought these days, checking out the cost of missions, reviewing the changes the Church has made lately to facilitate that more seniors go on missions, and since we are approaching our mission, it is time to consider finances.  Thus along the path mentioned above, can I ask the Father to direct me what to do, how to do it and what to pursue so we can have "sufficient for our needs" as we serve.  One son-in-law said that we may be blessed without that $50,000 (tongue in cheek, whatever that means and where that saying came from...)  to support us wherever we go. He said it would be great for our kids and grand kids to have the privilege of supporting grand parents on a mission and enjoy the blessings of so doing.

So if that is what Father has in store for us, am I wrong to ask for "things" to happen to help us be more financially prepared?  Can what we pray for curse us? 

In Helaman 10, Nephi receives a blessing telling him that whatever he prays for will be granted because he would not ask for anything contrary to Father's will.  That is a goal of mine, but I am not there yet.  So again I ask, if I pray for something that is not in accordance to Father's will, am I in the wrong.  There are often times that just by phrasing a request to Father will put the request in line with whatever His will might be.

For instance, if we being unemployed ask it this way, "Father please help me to learn whatever lesson you are teaching me so we can be relieved from this trial..."  That would be according to His will and it would let him know our heartfelt desire.  I just need to phrase my prayers about our financial challenges to Father in that light, I presume.  "Father help me learn the lessons you are teaching me and help me know what I should do to be able to serve thee as a missionary with my wife - financially." 

Doing this takes time and effort to think, pause, and phrase our prayers according to Father's will.  I guess the challenge is to be like Nephi in the book of Helaman.  Possible?  Sure.