Forgotten Prayers
My memory seems to be fading with age. It is to the point where my kids say the word “dementia” every time I accidentally repeat a story to them. Earlier this year I even took an online test to see if I actually had early signs of it. Fortunately, it said no, I believe I’m good. Seriously though, it is getting harder and harder to remember things.
There is nothing like answered prayers to elevate one’s faith. When God shows up and brings an answer, a healing, a promise, a solution to a problem, it ignites your faith and reminds you God truly does hear your prayers. Unfortunately, we often rejoice in the moment only to completely forget His handiwork a few days later. Sure, we remember the “big” answered prayers or the ones that are life-changing in our mind. But what about all the moments in between? How many answered prayers have we forgotten?
One of the most impactful changes I ever made to my daily spiritual disciplines was keeping a prayer journal. It literally transformed and rekindled my prayer life. Let me explain and be very practical. Each day I write and circle the people, situations, and moments I’m praying for. It’s not always long but it is specific. I want to be able to look back and remember exactly how and what I prayed. There is something about writing it down that makes you constantly aware and on the lookout for God’s working. But here’s the key… WHEN God answers, write that down too! All of this should be dated. What you will be creating is a faith-igniting journal full of personal God moments. On the days when you doubt. On the days when you are discouraged. On the days when it seems your prayers are only falling on deaf ears. Go back and read through all of the answered prayers God has done. You will remember and see His faithfulness firsthand! Side note… I like writing those answered prayers in a different color, so they are easy to find and stand out.
Habakkuk found this to be true when God told him to “write my answer plainly on tablets” (Habakkuk 2:2). I believe the Psalmist also understood this when he wrote “But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago” (Psalm 77:11).
As you look to make changes for 2025, consider starting a prayer journal. Carry it with you so can write people and circumstances that you need to circle in prayer later. Take time to recognize and write down all the answered prayers and God moments that happen. Then go back and allow your faith to be energized as you see and remember that God really does hear, and He really does answer when we call on His name.
Keep looking up,
Pastor Alan Hannah
Pastor Alan is the lead pastor of Allegheny Center Alliance Church. To find out more about ACAC, go here.
