A Prayer About Escape

When I feel like running away

LOVING FATHER,

Every day brings a variety of challenges, some simple and easy and others complex and difficult. Many involve potential conflicts in relationships; others center on mistakes I’ve made and must admit. Sometimes I feel like running away from these problems, hiding, closing my eyes, as though by not seeing them I can make them disappear. I act like a small child playing hide-and-seek, assuming that because I can’t see anyone, they can’t see me. I guess avoiding personal conflicts and dilemmas is a natural reaction—flight rather than fight, and I want to escape. That doesn’t help, of course, because the problems remain, waiting for me. I need to confront the issues, so please give me courage and strength. But I know that I won’t be alone. You are my hiding place. Wherever I am and whatever I am facing, you are with me, my refuge and my strength. As my refuge, you protect and shelter, and as my strength you empower. I need you. Please help me face my problems and meet them head on . . . with you.

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1