“This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom( come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. “
Matthew 6:9-13 NIV
Brothers and sisters in Christ,
This week I have focused in my own walk with Christ on prayer. I read articles on prayer this week and also focused on listening more to Christian music and to sermons.
We all can do something to pray more effectively. The Christian life is a marathon and not a sprint. The Lord is maturing us over our entire lives even though sometimes we may not realize His work in our lives. The Holy Spirit is inside us helping with every aspect of our walk with Christ from Bible study to prayer. Furthermore, there is grace and forgiveness through the death, resurrection, ascension, and glorification of Jesus.
In my life I pray in two ways. First, the Lord helps me prayer throughout the day. If I see a wreck by the side of the road, I can pray. If I am struggling with a problem, I pray. If I am afraid or anxious, I pray. The pain and problems caused by my surgery and drug interactions brought me to my knees. After two trips to the emergency room and falls, I knew my only hope to endure this was in Christ. I share these examples because I want to encourage you to have an attitude of prayer all day long.
Second, I have specific times for Bible study, prayer, and praise. Lately, I am waking up between 3 am and 5 am, so this has become much easier for me. This period is often called a quiet time and can take place any time between getting up in the morning and going to sleep at night.
Notice in the Bible that prayer varies by person and situation. Sometimes someone like Daniel prays in private and other times we see Moses in public praying for Israel.
The positions are also different from lying down prostate to raising one’s hands adoring the Lord.
The most important message I can tell you is to pray daily in a manner and time that works for you. The Lord’s Prayer is a great model for prayer. There are wonderful books and articles on it. I emphasize speaking to our daddy in many sermons. If you ever have questions about any spiritual topic, I am a resource, and I will keep every conversation confidential. You are welcome to give me advice as well. I am a servant to you, the church, and I care about you deeply and pray for you.
God bless you and your family,
Nathan