How’s Your Prayer Life?
Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Many years ago, when faced with a diagnosis of spreading cancer, my doctor asked me this question above after I had asked him what I should do. God placed the right doctor in my lap, but at the time I wasn’t as sure.
Prayer is both a privilege of relationship and a source of spiritual power. When the disciples asked Jesus how they should pray, Jesus started with “Our Father” (Mt 6:9). Jesus established prayer as a relationship rather than a ritual. We are not approaching an irreproachable deity, but a loving father who encourages us to speak intimately to Him. The apostle Paul tells us to bring everything and give it to God in prayer (Phil 4:6). Notice that Paul doesn’t say “don’t worry” but he does indicate prayer is a path to peace. We are not guaranteed the outcome we think should happen, but instead find peace and reassurance God will provide a right solution. God is in control of outcomes, only He has the spiritual power to handle changes.
Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages us to pray without ceasing. Paul doesn’t mean spend all day at it, but to try and develop ongoing conversations with God. Prayer is more like an open line of communication, not a formal meeting. Prayer develops into an awareness that God is always with us, in every moment and circumstance we encounter. James 5:16 tells us prayer doesn’t need perfect words or proper order of delivery. Instead, it should be what connects us to the source of all power and wisdom, God Himself. Persistent prayer is not a forced pattern of delivery and it is not done because it’s the right or safe and easy way of doing things. Instead, its design is to align our hearts to reveal areas that need His loving touch to guide us and to trust Him.
I can tell you for certain that when I opened my heart and told God I needed guidance to get through Cancer, promising to listen and do accordingly, He answered! That prayer was not practiced, it was far from perfect, but it deepened the relationship I have with the Father. I view prayer not as a duty but a privilege, and I thank Him, He answers.
Prayer
God, may I enjoy the privilege of constant conversations with you. May I feel your presence at those moments or even at the busy times of my day. I thank you for being ever present and faithful in hearing my prayers. May Your Will be done. Amen.
Karen Horton
