Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. Daniel 6:10
Daniel was one of the king’s most trusted advisors. His counsel was highly regarded. He provided wisdom beyond measure to the most powerful man in the land. It would be like being today’s Vice President. Daniel had a secret that wasn’t so secret. Everyone knew that he prayed to God morning, noon, and night. Daniel always took a praying lunch break. He went to his chambers and prayed in the middle of the day.
I’m sure his schedule was busy. To be one of the chief advisors to the king would mean that he was in many meetings and called on quite a bit to provide counsel. He participated in many strategy sessions and decision counsel meetings. Despite his hectic schedule, he took time out daily for a prayer lunch break.
This might seem impossible for you. However, here is a list of 10 ways to squeeze in that quality prayer time even in the middle of your crazy day. You might even find yourself having fun doing it!
- Take a prayer “nap”
- Take a prayer walk
- Meet with a lunch prayer friend
- Pray & drive during lunch errands
- Do a “mindless” task while you pray
- Fast from lunch to pray
- Thank God for your lunch
- Invite someone to lunch & pray for them
- Pray for your server or fast food person
- Deliver lunch to someone & pray for them
A note about this list. You might scoff at #1, the prayer nap. However, before you do, Thomas Edison would practice this one almost daily. I’m not sure how much of his nap was prayer, but he often took a short nap at lunch. Afterward, he would wake up refreshed and with renewed clarity about any problems he was struggling with.
The lunch prayer “nap” is a bit more intentional than that. You go somewhere quiet and relaxing where you won’t be interrupted. You might have to shut your ringer off and lock the door. Take time to close your eyes and rest.
During this rest time, lift things in prayer. It could be issues you’re working through, people you’re thinking about or concerned about, or some anxiety issue dragging you down. After you unload these things and hand them over to God, you will feel much lighter and better. By engaging Him with these weights, you trust Him to come through. It’s an act of trust and surrender.
Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Picture: Pastor Junior praises God for the bread oven. His church team uses it to feed the people in the village bread. The smell of delicious fresh baked bread fills the air during a church service. People get fed with the Word of God as Junior teaches through the bible verse by verse. They also get fed bread God provides through our Cross to Light Emergency Relief efforts.
