www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Prayer Prayer Struggles

Lately I've been struggling a little bit with my prayers. Not long ago, my prayer list began stacking up and I found myself working long hours at my job, becoming really tired at the end of the day and struggling to keep up with all my prayers. I found myself rushing through prayers that were losing meaning to me; prayers that I had added years and years ago that I hardly remember the reason for adding them in the first place. As I began finding myself with less and less time between school and work, I wasn't able to attend Mass or benediction that much. I tried doing my prayers while, driving, walking back from the jobsite, during other activities. Of course, I don't think I was right in doing this, and I wish to correct my ways. As of recent, I've dropped a lot of prayers that I didn't deem "appropriate" or might be excessive in a certain sense. I still pray the rosary every day, all normal evening/night prayers and daily prayers as well. And then on Sunday, I attend divine liturgy and confession. Does anyone have any advice on how to get a better prayer schedule in motion?

Thanks!

Christ is in our midst!!

Shadow,

Welcome to the forum. We hope your time with us will be spiritually enriching.

As for your question/dilemna . . .

Years ago, I read advice written by Father Thomas Hopko from St. Vladimir's Seminary. He advised us to maintain a prayer rule that we could do without hurrying. We are not monastics and often do not have time for long periods in prayer. The Lord blesses our intention and our effort as much as the prayers themselves.

I think that Lord walks with us wherever we go. So, I've also read advice on prayer that tells us to pray short prayers as we go, with the idea that the Lord walks with us wherever we go. St. Seraphim of Sarov advised his spiritual children to begin each task with "Lord, grant Your blessing" and to end it with "Thank You for Your aid."

I am retired and have time for longer prayer periods. But there are some days I end my day with a simple committal of my soul to the Lord. Why? Because on those occasions, I am so tired it's all I can get out.

Bob
Moderator

I humbly request you brothers and sisters to pray for me to get job to support myself and do will of God .

Christ is in our midst!!

Plains,

Welcome to the forum. We hope your time with us is spiritually enriching.

Prayers go up for you to find gainful employment.

Bob
Moderator