Last month, I received one of the most personal birthday gifts a daughter of the King could receive.

You see, about 12 years ago, I met a sister in Christ, Elaine. She became a friend and a dear Christian mentor to me.

Elaine is sweet and kind, full of grace and forgiveness. And she's one of the most faithful people I know. Through her example, Elaine taught me how to be a prayer partner and prayer warrior. I am so grateful for the time we've spent together over the years. (TBH, It's been too long since we've seen each other.😞) But I digress . . .

During our second meeting, Elaine told me that she prays before her birthday and asks God for a verse to guide her throughout the year.

I have to admit, I was skeptical. First, I considered whether the practice was Biblical. (Since I have unknowingly listened to false teachers before, now I question everything and everyone, even pastors and mentors. #BeABerean Acts 17:10-11)

Then I wondered whether God would take the time to point little ole me to a specific sentence or two of His Word.

Still, I wanted to see what God would do with my own birthday present prayer, so I boldly and expectantly asked Him.

The first year, He answered it. The second year, He answered it. And every year since, He answered it. Even on years when I prayed for one day instead of a month or two, God sent me a verse.

The truth is, I should not be surprised that God answered my birthday present prayer.

• Asking for God's guidance is in line with God's will, isn't it?
• Praying Scripture is God's will, isn't it?
• Reading Scripture in anticipation of God answering my prayer is God's will, isn't it?
• Nurturing my personal relationship with God through prayer and Scripture is God's will, isn't it?

When we pray for something that God wants, He will answer. He might not answer in the manner or the time frame that we want, but we know God's way is better, and He is always on time. He is faithful, and He will answer.

Once I receive my birthday verse, I abide in it. I let it wash over me. I let it fill my heart. How?

Throughout the year, I continuously refer back to the verse and

• Pray through the passage frequently (maybe not every day, but close to it.)
• Handwrite it
• Memorize it
• Study it with commentaries
• Analyze the Hebrew words and meanings
• Search for and sing worship songs that include the verse
• Journal about it and
• Even write blog posts about it

I was in a funk yesterday. And this morning, I realized that my birthday verse was exactly what I needed.

God knows. I know. It's a little, intimate "secret" just between the two of us.

So what do you say, Reader? Want to pray for your own birthday verse this year? Hit reply and tell me you just put a reminder in your calendar.

Blessings,

Michelle | To God Be The Glory
Be On The Lookout For God #BOLO4G

Helping women nurture a deeper relationship with our one and only living God through prayer and the Bible

P.S. If you missed my PRAY THE BIBLE verse calendar, please click here for the download.