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From the Saddle to the Psalms: Excerpts from Hattie McGraw’s Prayer Journal”

 


📖 “From the Saddle to the Psalms: Excerpts from Hattie McGraw’s Prayer Journal”

Entry: June 3, 1872

Dear Lord, Today Clementine sat down in the middle of the trail like she was auditioning for a pew. I quoted Proverbs at her. She blinked. I quoted Job. She sneezed. I quoted Revelation and she finally stood up—either convicted or allergic. I thank You for patience. I ask for more. And if You’re handing out miracles, I’d like one with reins.

Entry: June 10, 1872

Heavenly Father, The preacher said stubbornness is a sin. I say it’s a survival skill. Clementine refused to cross the creek again. I tried coaxing, bribing, and singing “Rock of Ages.” She responded with a tail flick and a look that said, “You first.” I’m learning that grace sometimes looks like waiting on a mule. And sometimes, I’m the mule.

Entry: June 17, 1872

Lord of beasts and burden, I saw Clementine staring at the horizon today. I think she was praying. Or plotting. Either way, I felt a kinship. Thank You for giving me a creature who teaches me more about You than any sermon. She’s stubborn, strong, and slow to move—but when she does, it’s with purpose. Help me be more like her. Except the sitting part.

🪶 Frontier Faith Reflections:

  • God speaks through donkeys (Numbers 22:28), so mules aren’t off the table.

  • Prayer journals don’t need polish—they need honesty, humor, and a little dust.

  • Sometimes the holiest moments happen between hoofbeats and hiccups.

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