Living Lessons on PrayerSample

I would like to share some examples from my own life. While learning how to talk to God and listen for His voice in prayer, I’ve found it very helpful to interact with Him through journaling my thoughts and feelings, and then asking Him to give me His take on it. Writing down my prayers and struggles is like a diary to God. Journaling keeps my mind on what I’m praying about, with an added plus that I feel like I’ve left the problems there in my journal, as if they are in God’s lap. 

After I’ve written out my prayers and current struggles, through the Immanuel Process, I’ve learned to ask Jesus, “What do you want me to know about that?”1 Then I write down what I sense that He is saying back to me in my mind and heart. I trust that what I am sensing is Him, because I’ve asked Him, “What do You want me to know?” Sometimes I just ask Him, “What do You want to say to me tonight?” He might want to heal something painful and/or say some loving words to me. Either way, I’m enjoying some lovely conversations with Jesus. 

Perhaps you’re wondering what it means to have a “conversation” with Jesus. Keep in mind the two devotions we’ve just done, look at my examples here and consider the possibility that you can have a “conversation” with Jesus. Knowing Jesus is a relationship like any other. That’s what intimacy is all about.  He longs for us to know and interact with Him on a deep level. He is patient to teach us and guide us in that direction. As we get to know His voice, it becomes easier to recognize that He wants to interact intimately, back and forth with us. 

Application: 

If having a back and forth conversation with Jesus is new to you, I encourage you to give it a try. Keep in mind that you are “one with Him.” (I Corinthians 6:17) After you have told Him about a situation and/or how you are feeling, ask “What do you want me to know about this?” Sit quietly and trust that what you hear is from Him unless it is not like His character. The words you will hear will be validating, comforting, loving, encouraging—and even fun. He has a sense of humor—He invented laughter. His words are designed for you to know He is with you no matter what is going on. It’s best to stay away from “why” questions, because He doesn’t often answer those kinds of questions. He sees the big picture—He wants us to walk by faith and trust Him no matter what.

1 Share Immanuel booklet by Dr. Wilder and Chris Coursey, available at www.lifemodel.org and www.thrivetoday.org