Country Road Therapy


My prescription for reducing high blood pressure, stress and anxiety: take a casual walk down a dirt-covered, barn-lined country road and talk to God. He's not only found in the mountains, you know.

Yes, Jesus did go up into the mountains to pray, but that was to get away from the crowds so He could have alone time with His Father. Because most of us might not be able to trek off into the mountains, Jesus suggested a quiet place -- your special room or prayer closet -- where your thoughts, meditations and prayers can be directed totally on God. Jesus said...

"When you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:6)

I like what Jesus had to say about being rewarded for this practice. Prayer is not a burden. It's not a waste of time. It has great benefits because God hears and answers those who call out to Him. 

Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. (Jeremiah 33:3)

You do not have, because you do not ask. (James 4:2)

You should be aware though, God is not a magic genie in a bottle who is granting every wish. He knows what you NEED and like a good Father desires to provide for you, but often we ask amiss -- we want things done for selfish reasons rather than considering God's heart in the matter.

You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. (James 4:3)

When you spend time alone in God's Word and talking with Him, it will soon become apparent what you ought to be praying for so that Jesus will be glorified and God will be praised in His answer.

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