Some sayings slip into our cultural conversation and serve as shortcuts for bigger ideas. “Thoughts and prayers” is one such phrase. Where did this expression come from?

Often, phrases like this can be traced to an individual who gave voice to the idea. Just as often, there is no tracing of the source. 

These words have become an automatic filler for politicians and media personnel. The next time someone talks about the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, or a school shooting, or some other tragedy, you will hear this phrase. You will also hear someone attempting to score political points by shouting down those who encourage people to keep those affected in their “thoughts and prayers.”

Who are you keeping your “thoughts and prayers” right now? Is there someone you promised you would pray for but kinda sorta forgot? This is a good moment to re-engage your prayer promise. Since I awoke at my normal Texas Time on the West Coast this morning, which means it was two hours behind Texas Time, I had an opportunity to catch up on my “thoughts and prayers.”

King David teaches us about “thoughts and prayers.” Take a few minutes to read Psalm 40 in its entirety. Read it aloud thoughtfully. Notice how he talks to God. A few insightful verses are collected above. Pay special attention to verse 17. I’m guessing this is the origin of “thoughts and prayers.”

“As for me, since I am poor and needy, let the Lord keep me in his thoughts. You are my helper and my savior. O my God, do not delay.”

David asks God to keep him in his thoughts. He is asking God not to forget about him. David’s prayer is passionate and specific. It is focused and straightforward. This prayer is a thought worth thinking and a model worth repeating. 

“Thoughts and prayers” are a form of communion. God thinks his best thoughts which leads to his best actions on our behalf. We seek to align and attune our hearts, minds, and lifestyles with his for our greater good and our influence on others. The phrase “thoughts and prayers” takes on fresh meaning in this light, doesn’t it?

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I will pray with passionate focus like King David.

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Our Father, as King David prayed, don’t forget about me. As he also prayed, empower me to fully align and attune my heart, mind, and lifestyle with yours. Draw me ever closer into this sweet communion. Amen.