Some of you have noticed that I write a lot about praying. I’m a firm believer in prayer. I believe prayer is a great reminder that we’re not alone. It lets us know there is someone else who is in charge that we can turn to.
Philippians 4:6-7 states, Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. According to this verse, prayer gives us the peace of God. What a wonderful notion. Don’t know about you, but with my electrical going out and the hot water turning cold this past week, I could sure use a bit more tranquility in my life.
There are basically three reasons why I think every Christian should pray. One is that through prayer, you get a deeper connection with God, your Father. It gives you someone to turn to when times are rough. Someone to hold onto. When life is its bleakest, there’s nothing better than to have Jesus, who you can trust. Too often we turn to friends or social media before God. It’s not until we don’t find the peace we are searching for that we finally turn to prayer. Yet, prayer should be your first choice.
Another reason I believe we should pray is because by bowing down to a higher deity, it shows true faith. Prayer is not just about talking with a friend, it’s deeper than that. It’s about falling down on your face when times are tough. And it’s about praising Him when things are going well. Prayer also shows your willingness to give up control.
The final reason to pray is the miracles others have told. We’ve all heard the stories of doctors stating a child is terribly ill. Then when they went for tests, nothing could be detected. Times like those, you know you have a loving Father who listens to you. Unlike some other gods, our Father is a God of healing, whether it be physical or emotional.
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Each time, before you intercede, be quiet first, and worship God in His glory. Think of what He can do, and how He delights to hear the prayers of His redeemed people. Think of your place and privilege in Christ, and expect great things! – Andrew Murray, South African Pastor
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In order to have a deep relationship with God, you must pray. Even Jesus prayed to His Father in Luke 22:42, where He said, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Jesus showed us the importance of prayer by doing so Himself. Pray every day, often. Talk to God, not only on bended knee, but as you drive to work. Build a strong relationship with Him. There’s nothing more fulfilling than a great connection with your loving Father.
If you or someone you know are in need of prayer this week, please leave a comment. We’d be more than happy to pray for you. And if this post moved you in some way, please feel free to share it.
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