There is a unique stillness in the apothecary at dawn. Before the day’s work begins and the labels are printed, I find that my most important "remedy" isn't found in a tincture bottle, but in the presence of God.
As a Christian herbalist, I’ve realized that my spiritual health and my craft are inextricably linked. Lately, I’ve felt a nudge to move beyond "quick petitions" and truly cultivate a prayer life for my work that is as deep and resilient as the one in my personal life.
If you’ve been feeling a bit "withered" in your spirit, here is exactly what I am doing right now to nourish my soul and strengthen my walk with the Lord. I pray that you will find bits and pieces that help you drawer near to God.
1. Reclaiming My "Morning Watch"
I used to review orders and check my email before my Bible. Now, I’ve committed to a morning prayer routine that starts before I even touch a computer or a pipette. I’ve set up a dedicated prayer corner—my own "Apothecary Altar"—right where I work.
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What I'm doing: I light a candle and use my Chrism Essential Oil as a sensory cue. The scent immediately signals to my brain: This time is set apart. It’s a physical reminder of the anointing oil mentioned in Exodus, grounding my heart in scripture before the chaos of the day begins.
2. Praying Through the "Herbs of the Bible"
To keep my focus from wandering, I’ve started a Scripture-based prayer practice centered on the plants I work with every day.
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What I'm doing: I take a squeeze of Adored Herbs of the Bible Tincture, I don’t just think about the physical benefits of the hyssop or cedar within it. I pray through Psalm 51:7: "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean."Linking my herbal remedies to the Word of God has turned my apothecary into a sanctuary. It reminds me of the healing power of God and how it is tangible and near.
3. Turning "Preparation Time" into "Intercession Time"
I spend a lot of time shaking tincture jars and straining herbs. This time is precious to me, and is a renewed oppertunity to remind myself of my "why".
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What I'm doing: I’ve adopted a rhythm of intercessory prayer. As I prepare herbs for my customers and clients, I pray specifically for their healing. I ask the Great Physician to work through the natural medicine He has provided. I ask Him to reveal himself and His blessings to the people who will recieve them. This shift from "manufacturing" to "ministry" renews my joy each day.
4. Practicing "Be Still" Meditation
In our fast-paced world, even "prayer" can feel like a to-do list. I’m learning to stop talking and start listening.
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What I'm doing: I spend 10 minutes in contemplative prayer, focusing on a single attribute of God—His faithfulness, His sovereignty, or His role as the Creator of the botanicals in my jars. I find that when I am still, like a seed waiting in the dark, God does His best work in my heart.
5. Keeping a "Harvest Journal"
Just as I keep notes on my herbal formulas, I’ve been more faithful in writing in my prayer journal.
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What I'm doing: I record the "seeds" I’m planting (my requests) and the "harvests" (the answers) for me and the people I speak with. Looking back at how God has provided—whether through a providential door opening or a sense of peace during a trial—builds my faith for the next season.
Final Thoughts from the Apothecary
Strengthening your spiritual discipline isn't about perfection; it’s about presence. By integrating my faith into my herbalism practice, I’ve found that prayer is the most potent "solvent" for a weary heart. It extracts the bitterness of stress and leaves behind the sweetness of His peace.
