Prayer is a simple concept, but we tend toward making it complicated when we walk it out. We may even wonder if we are doing it right! In this post, I want to bring us back to the simplicity of prayer, and introduce prayer as a primary way to grow in our connection with God.
Prayer, simply put, is communion with God. Prayer is often expressed as having conversation with Jesus and loving on Him. It is a time of focused attention on Him, talking to Him and pausing to listen as He speaks to us.
It is most beneficial to set aside daily appointments of uninterrupted time with God to grow in connection with Him. This forms a foundation for connecting with God throughout our day and in all we do. As we introduce conversation with God into our devotional time with Him, we will more easily begin to talk with Him throughout our day as well.
The practical ideas below can be used to grow your prayer life during both daily appointments with God and by talking with Him throughout your day.
Short, Simple Phrases
Just saying “thank You, Father” or “Lord, I need Your help” are valid prayers.
Try This
Whether in your quiet time, during a worship service, or even throughout your daily activities, pause to speak to God in short phrases of 5-10 second prayers; then pause to allow Him to respond back to you. You want a two-way conversation, not a speech from you to Jesus.
Conversation with God builds our connection with Him, helping us learn to connect with Him no matter where we are or what we’re doing.
Example: As you spend alone time with Jesus, tell Him, “I love You, Lord. Thank You for Your love for me. I am so grateful for You in giving Your life for me.” Leave room for Him to respond. For example, His Holy Spirit may bring a Scripture to mind or something you need to ask forgiveness for. Ask Him to remind you of all He has done through Jesus to display His love to you.
Some simple phrases you could also start with:
“Show me Your thoughts about me/a friend/this situation”
“Give me Your eyes to see”
“Make me more aware of Your presence”
“I choose to trust You”
“Teach me Your ways”
“Remove all that hinders me from knowing Your love and showing it to others”
Devotional prayer is one way we abide in Christ (see John 15). I pray this instruction helps you grow even closer in your relationship with God. Feel free to share comments or ask questions.
Inspiring Passion for Jesus Christ 