“Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.” - C.S. Lewis
Prayer is essential to growing in your faith and deepening your relationship with Christ. Put simply, prayer is communicating with God as you would with a friend. God doesn't require us to come to Him with large words or fancy language. He longs to hear what our heart desires, our worries and what we’re thankful for.
Prayer satisfies our deepest spiritual desires and longings. A great example of this is in Psalm 63:1:
“You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you,my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.”
Can you relate to this? Often, God can teach and speak to us through prayer, allowing us to receive guidance and direction in difficult or confusing situations. Prayer allows for the Holy Spirit to intercede in ways that we could never accomplish ourselves.
While you can pray alone praying with others is also encouraged. As we mentioned earlier, Fellowship is also an important part of your Christian walk. Prayer can be a great way to grow together with your community. As Matthew 18:19-20 says:
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them”
However, though you’re never separated from God, there are a few things that can make prayer difficult. If you are living in sin, you may find it difficult to come to God in prayer. Often, people who pray can be discouraged by lack of faith or selfish motives. If you feel that there’s a hindrance in your prayer life, ask God to reveal it to you. He will and you will feel
Prayer can take place anywhere and any time of day. Though, some people find the most intimate moments of prayer are found during their quiet time.
Here are some ideas you can try to incorporate into your quiet time when it comes to prayer
1. Start A Prayer Journal
Some people find it easiest to express themselves by writing down their prayer list or simply their prayers. Not only can it help you stay focused but it's a great way to look back and see how the Lord works through prayer.
2. Pray For Your Spouse & Your Family
While the Holy Spirit will certainly lay certain people on our hearts to pray for, we may often forget to pray for those who are closest to us. Praying for your spouse and family is one of the most important things you can do.
For those who are married, praying for your spouse can help to strengthen each other. A great example can be found in Ecclesiastes 4:12,
“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
3. Pray Over Bible Verses
If you’re praying and don’t know where to start, it can be helpful to look at specific verses in the Bible. Here are a few examples:
- “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” - 2 Timothy 1:7
- “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” - Romans 12:2
- “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” -1 Peter 5:7
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