Creatures of Habit: Prayer Sample

Prayer: The Holiness of The Habit 

While faith in Christ makes us ultimately holy before God, Scripture urges all believers to live a godly, holy, set-apart life here and now. So, what does a godly life look like? Our best example is expressed in the life of Jesus. In Jesus’ life we see that he habitually spent time in prayer with God. How can the habit of prayer help produce a godly life in us?

Have you ever spent time with a married couple that behaves like each other? Maybe they share common phrases, laugh alike, gesture the same, or have similar expressions. It’s pretty common. Even though we’re unique individuals, there’s a tendency for us to behave similarly to those with whom we share a close bond. 

Behavioral scientists study this phenomenon of how people in close relationships, often without even thinking, imitate each other. In intimate relationships we move past the surface and engage candidly. We have heart-to-heart conversations build trust, respect, and connections that we simply don’t experience with casual acquaintances. We get to know each other’s hearts, and we become more like each other. 

This isn’t a superficial mimicking. This experience is a mysterious movement within people that draws us to subconsciously align our behaviors to those we trust. We sometimes call this influence. 

In the same way, genuine conversations with God cultivate a strong and sincere bond that influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So, the connection of prayer is practical and powerfully transformational. As we devote ourselves, the Spirit works within us to conform us.

When early Christians were instructed to “set their minds on the things above” (Colossians 3:1-2 NIV) it was for the purpose of "being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:10 NIV). 

Devoting time with God, focusing our minds to know Him, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and shape us, renovates and conforms us to His ways, behaviors, and character. 

The fruit of prayer is a deeper connection with God. 

and

The fruit of a deeper connection with God is a godly life. 

• Am I observing God from a distance or am I spending enough time with him in the Word and in prayer to become more like him? 

Today, read from Colossians 3:1-4 and Romans 12:9-21 and thank God for the transformational power of prayer!