There have been times when I’ve been in prayer or taking a prayer walk, and I ask God to help me solve a problem or resolve an issue. Then, right there in prayer, an idea comes to mind that I didn’t think of before or an inspiration is sparked that makes my problem so much easier. I have a good friend named Kim Cash Tate who calls these moments “downloads.” Divine ideas and inspiration that God gives to us when we are close to Him in prayer. It’s no accident that these thoughts or ideas come right when we need them, and we know they are not thoughts we would think of on our own. They are divine downloads and a common way God speaks to us when we pray.
James 5:16 tells us, “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (ESV)
We most experience that power when we realize that God speaks back to us when we pray.
The truth is, God is constantly speaking to us; we just don’t often recognize it’s Him. We expect God to speak to us in this loud thunderous voice when it’s more like His character to speak to us by moving on our behalf and answering our requests, by gently placing a thought or idea on our hearts, or giving us His peace that surpasses understanding. These are some ways He speaks to us when we pray, and we’ll hear Him if we take the time to open our spiritual ears and listen.
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for speaking to us in gentle and profound ways. Help us to recognize Your voice and be open to the divine downloads You place in our hearts. Teach us to listen and respond with faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflect: Can you recall a time when you received a “divine download” during prayer?
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