More From Annie Gipson

My meditation was about making it a habit to talk to God while doing everyday things. Since I wrote that meditation, I have tried to make it a habit to say short prayers while I go about my day. I have been amazed at how easy it is to let everyday habits trigger me to pray. For instance, I work at a restaurant, and I decided to make it a habit to say a quick prayer whenever I get a scoop of ice. So every time I get a scoop of ice, I will either say a prayer for the person whose drink I am making, or just thank the Lord for the beautiful day. Sometimes I will start singing a praise song—not out loudly, of course.

Then I was out of work for 3 months. When I went back to work at a different restaurant, the first time I got a scoop of ice I was so surprised! I started singing a praise song without even thinking about it. The habit was automatic, even though I hadn’t scooped ice in 3 months. It made me smile.

First Thessalonians 5:16–18 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” (NRSV). Turning daily activities into triggers for me to pray has really helped me to talk to God more. And that has made me more joyful.