This is Part 2 of Living a Lifestyle of Prayer. If you haven’t already, read Part 1: Posturing Our Hearts.
Before we can cultivate a life of prayer, we must choose to do our part.
God has given us a free will; in this, He has given us the freedom to choose. He has given us this choice because He does not want a people who are forced to be with Him, but who voluntarily choose to be.
What are some keys to doing our part?
1. Just start.
If we never start, we definitely can’t do our part. It sounds catchy, but it is true. I’ve noticed for many: Simply starting can be the most difficult. This is especially true when it is something requiring a change in our schedule and consistent commitment. We can talk all about needing to spend time with God in prayer, but we must also take action.
Even if you don’t feel motivated, even if you are struggling with something, start anyway. In time you will experience the fruit of this choice to pursue Him. It’s crucial to get started.
2. Set a daily appointment with God and keep it.
When we have an appointment, do we easily cancel? Most of us would never cancel a doctor’s appointment because we will be charged for the appointment even if we fail to show up.
Our appointments with God are even more important to our hearts. God wants to help us in this life and is the true Source of all we need for life and godliness. He is a King who has humbled Himself to be accessible to us through Christ. We can actually meet with this One who is royalty.
“…His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness…”
2 Peter 1:3 (NKJV)
Make it your aim to set that appointment with God and keep it. If the time isn’t working, try another. Seek to be as consistent as possible in your time with God.
3. Stay faithful despite circumstances.
Aim to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit of faithfulness. Do this by saying “yes” to your commitment to spend time with God regardless of what is happening in or around you.
Do not let life’s challenges or emotional turmoil easily sway you from time with Jesus. He is the One you need most in those times. If we allow circumstances to dictate whether we follow through day after day or week after week, the enemy will try to find ways to derail us from our commitment.
At times circumstances may truly change things so that we miss a day. Just get back on schedule as soon as possible, and seek to avoid making a habit of allowing interruptions to hinder your relationship with Christ.
In closing, remember to simply start! Set a time and start talking with Jesus. As much as possible, refuse to allow conflicts to hold you back from living a lifestyle of prayer. Continue in faithfulness day in and day out, trusting God to give His supernatural grace to follow through as you say “yes” to Him.
Next: Read Part 3 of this series.
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Inspiring Passion for Jesus Christ 