Prayer Beads

This is a devotional from my Women of Faith Daily Devotional book (click on the "Prayer Beads title to view the book at amazon.com). It is writen by Luci Swindoll. She talks about her "prayer beads". I thought it was absolutely beautiful. It is found on February 24th....

"We all have different ways of remembering for what or for whom we should pray. Some of us Make lists, others keep a journal. Some hang notes on the bathroom mirror or refrigerator door. I have beads. Sound unusual? Maybe it is, but it works for me.

Then years ago Marilyn's daughter, Beth, introduced me to the idea of stringing together beads of different sizes, shapes, colors, and textures -- each a reminder to pray for something or someone. During the time I was negotiationg to buy my house, I added a little square wodden bead. Beads of different colors and shapes symbolize different people for me. I even have a bead with holes and rough edges...for problems I'm praying about.

From time to time I change beads. I remember a beautiful white one, almost like a marble, representing my friend who had a terminal illness. I prayed tat the Lord would giver her a quiet spirit as she trusted him with the outcome. When she passed away I saved the bead in a small treasure box. It is a sweet and personal remembrance now.
Scripture tells us to pray without ceasing, and in my desire to do that, I take my string of beads with me everywhere -- trains, planes and automobiles! I'm so grateful the Lord has given me this beautiful, creative reminder to hold in my hands as I pray...and remember.

Heavenly Father, thank you for reminders to pray for the people and things that matter to you and to me. How grateful I am that you hear my prayers with a tender, attentive heart. Amen."