Prayer Closet

I feel like prayer is a real area of weakness for me. Finding a regular, quiet and concentrated time to talk to God is hard - because I get so easily distracted by things I think need to be done right at that moment. So, last summer (2005) when I was in Colorado, I was sitting in church and felt like God was inspiring me with the idea of a prayer closet. I have a big walk-in closet, and the thought was that I should clean out one part and make it a retreat where I can go and talk to God about the things nearest to my heart.

So, finally - over a year later, I am getting this set up. I share this with you for two reasons. One, because some of the crafty things I think you might enjoy also. And, two - to ask how you keep track of prayer requests and praises. Do you have a journal, an index card box, a photo album with photos of those you want to pray for? I'd really appreciate hearing what works for you as I can get so overwhelmed with all the things there are to pray for and sometimes just give up.

I am just beginning the process of figuring out what works for me - but the first thing I needed was a quiet and undistracted place. This is what I came up with:

This memo board can hold favorite quotes, verses or prayer requests. I think of it as a place that will inspire me to pray and worship God. You can find the directions to make this board here.

I needed some sort of light as there is only a big overhead light and I wanted something more peaceful and calm. I found this little battery operated lamp in the camping section of Wal-Mart. Perfect!
Then, I needed some sort of little table to keep my prayer box or journal and the lamp on. (See finished box above with lamp and box on it!) I created this out of an empty diaper box and covered it with toile fabric. You could either staple (using a heavy duty staple gun) or hot glue the fabric over the box. It fits perfectly - and I especially like reusing something that would otherwise be trash.

This sign will be kept on the memo board, but when it is on the door knob that means I am praying and do not want to be disturbed unless it is an emergency, of couse.

Then, I needed some place to sit/kneel - I thought just sitting on the floor would eventually get uncomfortable and therefore distracting. So, I made these two pillows and set one against the wall (under my shorter hanging clothes) and the other on the floor.

All of these things will make a more comfortable environment...now, I need to work on the discipline of prayer and make it a daily reality in my life.

Matthew 6:6, "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father who is unseen."