Growing in HopeSample

We are looking at the person and life of Jesus, so that we, as His children and as His followers, can better imitate Him! We know that Jesus came as a servant, loved the outcasts and sinners, and forgave those (us) who sinned against Him. So, what else do we see Jesus doing during His time on earth? We see Him pray.

Jesus Prays

Matthew 14:23a –  “After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray.” 

Luke 6:12 –   “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”

Mark 1:35 –   “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.”

These are just a few of many Bible verses that refer to Jesus praying. This shows us that spending time with His Heavenly Father in prayer was important to Jesus.

If Jesus, who is God in the form of man, desired to be connected to the Father through prayer and made praying a priority in His life, how much more should we pray?!?!? 

One reason Jesus values prayer so much is because He values His relationship with His Father. Can you imagine having a loving, healthy relationship with someone who you never talk with? 

If we want to grow in our relationship with the Father, we need to be talking with Him on a daily basis. If we are wanting to become more like Jesus, then we need to learn to value and prioritize prayer like Jesus did!!

Even though it is important for us to prioritize prayer in our lives, don’t look at it as an obligation. Prayer is a privilege. We have the opportunity to enter the holy presence of God and have a conversation with Him!! This is amazing! He actually hears our prayers, and desires for us to speak with Him! I don’t know about you, but that excites me!

Although praying for long periods of time (like Jesus did in Luke 6:12) is good, don’t feel bad if you are unable to do that! We can talk and connect with God anywhere and anytime. In fact, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.” Hold a continual conversation with God throughout your day!

Here are some tips:

·  Pray before you make a phone call.

·  Pray before you make a decision.

·  Pray when you are in the car.

·  Pray when you are alone.

·  Pray with others when you come in contact with them. 

·  Pray Bible verses.

·  Pray for people around you.

·  Pray anytime, anywhere. 

“I don't often spend more than half an hour in prayer at one time, but I never go more than half an hour without praying.” -Smith Wigglesworth

“Pray often, for prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan.”

-John Bunyan

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that if Jesus spent a lot of time praying, then prayer is something that I need to prioritize in my life. Will You teach me how to do this? Teach me how to hold a continual conversation with You! Praying is a privilege and I thank You for it! I desire to know You and trust You more. Thank You for hearing my prayers. Thank You for Your forgiveness and love. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.