Photo Courtesy of Adrienne Leonard
Gymnasts frequently struggle with Yurchenko vaults. This skill is very difficult to execute properly because the athlete must run as fast as she can toward the vault table, round off onto the vault board, do a back handspring onto the table, use her hands and shoulders to block (a very quick push) off the table, do a full twist in the air and land. In order for this skill to be powerful, the gymnast must focus on the approach to the table. If they run too slowly and do not get the round off turned over quickly they will have problems blocking off the vault. The approach determines the strength or weakness of the vault.
Likewise, if our prayer lives seem dull and weak, and we think God is not listening, perhaps we should consider our approach to Him. The Lord said to Moses, “Among those who approach me I will show myself holy” (Leviticus 10:3).
When we pray we are entering the presence of Holy God. Still, we tend to ignore the holiness and purity of His essence. We race into His throne room spouting requests, usually without even pausing to appreciate His wonder and majesty. We hasten from His presence without offering Him the respect and homage He deserves. Then we’re baffled when we don’t hear Him answer.
We need to demonstrate adoration of and admiration for God. Part of prayer is learning to sit in awe of God and wait for the Spirit to usher us into His presence. God is eager to grant us audience, but we must approach Him offering the honor due His name.
Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.
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Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2