I’m working on finishing Prayers from The Water’s Edge in the next couple weeks. I spent more time rereading, rethinking, and reworking this short prayer than any other.
This prayer is one that speaks to me because I feel I’m too discontent during times I should be content. Seriously…I’m healthy, have a roof over my head, am obviously not lacking food, I live in the greatest country ever, my boys are amazing, yet I find myself complaining and comparing–both can steal a lot of contentment. And I’m too content with the things I should be discontent about. I’m not perfect. If I made some small adjustments in my life then some amazing changes would happen. Or I see injustice or unfairness or pain. And sometimes I could do something about the injustice or unfairness or pain, but I act like the priest and Levite, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, and pass by the wounded traveler.
This prayer both comforts and challenges me. Comforting because I can can and should be more content with who I am (God doesn’t make junk) and what I have (I’m blessed). Challenging because I have plenty of room to grow and plenty of opportunities to serve.
Content. Discontent.
Dear God,
I seek contentment. Let me be grateful and happy with the life You give.
I seek discontentment too. Lead me to growth and compassion.
I am Your masterpiece. –Ephesians 2:10
Let me be content that I am uniquely Your creation.
You have blessed me greatly in so many ways.
I don’t want to take Your provision for granted. I want to enjoy Your generosity.
When it is raining let me take in the smells and experience Your nourishment.
When it is sunny let me see the beauty and experience Your warmth.
May I be content about the things I can’t change and discontent about the things I can’t tolerate.
Guide me and lead me as I figure out the distinction between the two.
Help me to learn, improve, and develop in the areas that matter.
Keep creating me and making me a better me.
Bless me with contentment. Bless me with discontentment.
Amen.
