Holiness is the Only Option for the Truly Free

I've had many times when I've wanted to pray, and ended up just sitting in front of the Lord in a hopeless shrug. For whatever reason, sometimes it feels near impossible to pray from the heart and come up with anything to say.
And that is ok. Prayer also means listening.
However, if after you’ve reflected and given the Lord a chance to speak you are looking for something to say, “thank you” is a good place to start. Whatever you have going on at the time, you also are going on at the time, which means that God is literally holding you in existence with every inhale and exhale.
So. If you thought no one cared, you're wrong about that.
Knowing that, when I feel I have nothing left, I often turn to this prayer. This prayer that always leaves me smiling or crying or both.
Lord, I know that you understand what is happening to me right now. I know everything that is happening has a purpose. But I also know that I don't understand. And that I'm tired. And that I'm hurting. And I can't always feel your presence in the middle of this. And I know that I need you.
You've always been there for me. You've been there for me when I was sad and couldn't see the good things you’ve had for me around the corner.
You've been there when I was in love and fearless. I felt you there and none of my fears mattered because you were close and I was safe with you.
You were there when my world fell apart and the only thing that could stop my tears was to meet you in prayer. I’d start crying again and you’d be there still.
You were with me through all of my travels wherever I went. And we went places I never thought I'd go.
You've opened my eyes to every beautiful thing I've seen and you've gotten me through every painful time I've felt. And most importantly, you have always led me back to you.
Please Lord, never let me leave. I know that you have chosen me. Help me to choose you.
Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. -1 Thess. 5:16-18