“When Solomon had finished all these prayers and supplications to the Lord, he rose from before the altar of the Lord, where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward heaven.”                                                                     1 Kings 8:54

Here is a bit of history and a safety lesson: 

In the 1950s, a number of fire incidents occurred due to flammable clothing. The trendy clothing styles during that time were fashionable but highly flammable. These accidents led to the Flammable Fabrics Act in 1953 which set a standard on the flammability of fabrics. 

Later in the 1970s, the National Fire Protection Association determined a need to educate people on what to do if their clothes become inflamed and developed a series of Public Service Announcements to offer instruction and educate the public. Out of this initiative came the Stop, Drop, and Roll technique. Through the PSA campaign this technique and message became so memorable and popular it was soon incorporated into all fire safety educational programming. In short, the message states that if your body or clothes catch fire you should immediately stop, drop to the ground covering your face with your hands, and roll over and over back and forth until the fire is out.

The classic Stop, Drop, and Roll phrase and the visual of the action required is vividly etched in my mind as many songs with movements were used to teach this when I was a child (yes, in the 70s). As a part of fire safety, it continues to be drilled with children at a young age so that the action becomes an automatic response should this ever happen. 

When you read today’s title you may have immediately envisioned this process.

Stop, Drop, and Roll.

You may be thinking, “OK, but what does that have to do with this scripture or this devotional?” Since this concept is so engrained in us, I found an additional, useful application for Stop, Drop, and Roll that can easily be applied and remembered as a Christian. 

Applying these same principles, you can improve your prayer life (with slight modifications). Try this:

When life heats up causing you distress, remember to STOP immediately, DROP to your knees (or drop your head covering your face), and let your concerns, needs, and praises ROLL off your tongue until you get it all out.

To make sure you’re prepared during times of crisis start practicing now so that it becomes an automatic response.

In the morning, STOP what you’re doing, DROP to your knees, and ROLL out your prayer for the day to the Lord. 

Preparing to eat lunch, STOP before eating, DROP your head, and ROLL off your blessing for the meal. 

Coming in from a long day, STOP. DROP. ROLL.

You get the picture. 

Look at Solomon, born in 1010 BC, as an example – this has been going on for years. Intentionally prepare for your prayer life the way we prepare for a lifetime of fire safety and security. 

As stated by the U.S. Fire Administration: Be prepared. Be informed. Be safe. 

Dear Lord,

At this moment, I stop and pause in your presence bowing my head before you to bring to you my requests and concerns as well as my praises. I want prayer to be my first response in all situations. 

Amen.