Prayer

I've been considering my prayer life recently. It's a good thing to think about. Even Jesus' disciples asked him to teach them how to pray. Here's a few sporadic thoughts. 


- Give God your full attention. If you were having dinner with the president, you would never text during a conversation with them. When you pray, find a quit place with no distractions. 


- Be needy. Don't think that when you pray you are doing God a huge favor. He's the God of the universe and He doesn't need you. You need Him. Don't forget that when you come to Him.


- Don't be afraid to be brief. Don't pray for a long time just so that God will listen to you (cf. Matt. 6:7). There are certainly times for long prayers (Jesus prayed all night), but do not ramble as if God won't hear you unless you say it 50 times. 


- Be open and honest. One of the dumbest things you can do is try to hide your true feelings when talking to the one who knows everything. He knows when you're angry or proud, so be honest (and humble).


- Have variety. Do you have a friend who only calls when they need something? Don't be that person. Yes, come to God with requests, but also with adoration, thanksgiving, confession, and praise. Don't succumb to the deadly one-track prayers. 


- Be intentional. Any relationship takes intentionality. If you don't plan on praying, you most likely won't pray (just ask me). This is the most difficult for me. 


- Pray with faith. If you pray within God's will as revealed in Scripture, then have confidence that He will do it. Believe in your heart that God will answer prayer.