“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
“And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” This verse emphasizes the importance of being in constant prayer, meaning that we should not give up.
“Pray without ceasing.” This verse encourages a constant awareness of God and a continual attitude of prayer throughout the day.
Almost all believers know what prayer IS. But when we stop and think, WHERE or WHEN does a prayer actually start?
- Is that even a good question, if the Scripture says pray without ceasing?
- Does a prayer have a starting point AND a stopping point? Does it have to?
- Is a prayer a conversation, or a sudden activity coming from a sudden situation?
Be advised:
A) There is a relentless march of intrusions on our time.
B) Prayer takes time.
C) Prayer is a profound expression of our innermost thought.
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- Attitude of praise.
- Expressing needs in our lives.
- Petitions of wants that we may have.
- Requesting for others in our lives who we feel may need God’s intervention.
D) God is WAITING for us to talk to Him.
E) Prayer is literally a sacred act, since we are entering the very presence of God.
F) Prayer makes us vulnerable, but in a protected way.
G) Prayer requires a type of fear, not the “afraid” kind; but a deep reverence.
H) Sincere prayer does not come from a calloused heart.
A movie called “Roots” was about a man who traced his ancestry back several generations. When we study the “roots” of prayer, we find that prayer literally begins DURING our conversations with God! Because we are to be communicating with God all the time in one way or another, it’s like changing lanes on an expressway. We are still heading in the same direction; so our conversation with God goes from a simple fellowship to an expression of need. After our suggestion or request, we go back into regular fellowship. Like walking along a road, conversing with sincerity, authenticity, and appreciation.
“Lord, thank You for allowing us to walk with You and talk with You in a way that is truly natural. And help us break through interruptions and wrong priorities to allow an attitude of prayer! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”