Returning to Intimacyናሙና

Our example of intimacy: Jesus

In the New Testament, we learn about a habit that Jesus consistently repeated: he would seek solitude to pray. When Jesus walked the Earth, he walked in the form of man, but also as God. 100% man and 100% God. What should grab our attention is seeing how Jesus, being the Son of God, The Messiah, The Living Word, sought solitary places to seek and pray to His Father. The Bible mentions that at times Jesus would pray all night long. Wow. This may be a sign to re-evaluate our prayer lives, or it could be the motivation we need to start praying.

Prayer Builds the Relationship

The best way to maintain a healthy and passionate relationship is to communicate constantly. At the base of every relationship is communication. Our relationship with God is no different. Prayer is our way of communicating with God. The more you pray, the more your relationship with God grows. This doesn’t mean you have to confine yourself for 24 hours every time you pray. The importance lies in our attitude and intention as we pray and seek God. In the times of Jesus, the Pharisees prayed long-worded prayers, yet Jesus teaches that The Father is moved by quality not quantity. This isn’t to say long prayers are useless. In fact, long and wholehearted prayers can be extremely fulfilling, so long as they come naturally as a result of consistent conversation with God.

Solitary Places

It’s interesting knowing Jesus would isolate himself, away from the disciples and the crowds of people. In solitude, we are free of distraction and focused where we need to be. When we start our day by seeking intimacy with God, His voice prepares us for what the day will bring. We become alert and willing to obey and serve Him. Today, I encourage you to follow the example of Jesus. Learn from His closeness with God and experience that closeness in your life.