I don't know why I get caught up in thinking that I have to have things all figured out to take them to God in prayer. You know, having all the words or knowing how to pray? I fall so short in my prayer life when I am confused or faced with an obstacle that I can't figure out. Or even more so, if I am hurt. I know that when I am hurt about something I close up and shut down, usually my words are "I am done". So, after all of the head knowledge that I have and believe wholly and the written truth why is my heart so slow or unwilling to prayerfully respond in times like these?
Like last week, I went through a time of deep depression. I was not sure exactly why I was sinking but it was clear to me, that something was not right and I couldn't help it. Did I pray through it? Nope, I tried to no avail to wade through it myself knowing that prayer was the answer but not going that route. I spent about 5 days wallowing in whatever it was until I looked around and saw what I was doing... God is always faithful to send me reminders and I finally grasped at one and started out of the pit. All I had to do was talk it out with God, I KNEW He was the answer but I just can't figure out why I did not go to Him first. Maybe I wanted to wallow? Maybe it was more comfortable than working it out... I don't know the exact answer yet but by God's grace and faithfulness... I am out off the pit (again) :)

My answer lies in Psalm 71:14 - 14 But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.

So, I praise in all things, when I know and when I don't. It's not a new word... it's not profound but it is the way out of hopelessness.