I was cleaning out some files this week and came across this little article which I have had for 16 years.  After 16 years, I think it is about time I shared it with others. It is an excellent way to remind us of who to pray for when our minds wander during times of prayer and help us focus on what is the most important.  The author is unknown.

1. The thumb is nearest to you. You begin your prayers by praying for those who are closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a “sweet duty”.

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing us in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the leader of your country and the government, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God’s guidance.

4. The fourth finger is the ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in any kind of need, in trouble or in pain. This would include everyone else you come across in your daily life, people who ask you to pray for them, your enemies and a stranger. You can never pray too much.

5. And lastly comes the little finger, the smallest finger in all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. “The least shall be the greatest among us.” Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective, and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.

We certainly don’t need a map to pray, but this is a great prompt to not forget anything in the midst of our daily devotions and prayer meditations. Remember that God loves us unconditionally. He listens to our prayers and He will never take you where the grace He gives will not protect you. Maybe making the five-finger pray a part of your life with offer you an aid in your prayer life. Thanks be to God!

Patty