I used to think the Bible’s admonition to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17, KJV) was unrealistic, perhaps even metaphorical. Until I experienced it myself, as a result of a transformative prayer retreat. Since then, I’ve discovered that many of the things I encounter in my daily life can be turned into reminders to pray. Street signs, for example.
That’s right, street signs.
With a little mindfulness and a little practice, the most familiar street signs can be turned into reminders to pray, such as these:
1) Stop
“Lord, thank You for the unhealthy habits You have helped me to stop, the sins You have delivered me from, and the unfruitful thoughts and feelings You have removed from my mind and heart.”
2) Yield
“Father, I yield myself and my plans once more into Your hands. What You want, I want. Where You lead, I will follow. May Your will be done in and through me.”
3) Slow
“Slow me down, Lord, to a safe speed. Slow me down to a healthy speed. Slow me down to hear Your voice, see Your hand and enjoy Your presence.”
4) Speed Limit
“God, thank You for the reminder that You are always previous, always before, always ahead. You clear the way ahead. You make straight paths for my feet. Help me remember that I will encounter nothing today that You have not foreseen.”
5) No Parking
“Father, deliver me from complacency. Keep me moving and growing in my faith. I want to always be moving, running after You, drawing closer and closer to You.”
6) One Way/Wrong Way
“Lord Jesus, You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let me walk in all Your ways, keep Your commandments, cleave to You, and serve You with all my heart and soul.” (John 14:6, Joshua 22:5)
7) Detour
“Show me the way to go, Lord, in everything. Whether I turn to the right or to the left, let me hear Your voice, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21)
Once you get into the habit of praying some of the street signs you encounter, you may find the practice addictive. You may start to pray in response to street names and billboards, opening ever more avenues (get it?) for you to speak to God, and Him to speak to you.
