The Whole ChurchSample

PRAYING IN FAITH

In the modern age, we crave constant connection. For the vast majority of us, true loneliness seems a fate worse than death, which is why we risk the latter to avoid the former. In this age of instant communication, we’ve convinced ourselves it’s possible to satisfy the deep hunger through texting and all manner of apps designed to keep us staring at a screen, waiting for a response.

But what if we took a moment to examine this bottomless need instead of rushing to fill it? Where would that lead us? In short, back to our Creator. God’s the one who designed us to be in constant communion with Him—in fact, that’s what eternal life is. You may be wondering how we can experience it this side of heaven, and the answer is simple: prayer.

As the body of Christ, we can’t afford not to be in communication with the body’s Head—Jesus Christ. Nor can our spirits survive the onslaught of this fallen world without that sustaining, divine connection. Perhaps in the past it’s felt like a chore for you, but now’s the time for a renewed vision of prayer.

Before we clasp our hands and bow our heads, we first have to wrestle with an uncomfortable question: Why pray? It’s no secret God already knows what we need before we even ask Him (Matt. 6:8). So why should we bother petitioning or telling Him anything? If we’re honest, it can feel a little superfluous.

But that’s true only if you think of prayer as a transaction—our words for His blessing, provision, and protection. Though God showers us with all that and more, prayer’s actually much more about tuning in to God and His kingdom. When we pray, we’re not a child on Santa’s lap, listing wishes—we’re more like Mary seated at the feet of Jesus, simply enjoying His presence.

When Jesus taught on prayer, He specifically told the disciples to pray in private, which He Himself did on a regular basis. When you’re alone, start by concentrating on aspects of God that you adore, and relive your favorite encounters with Him—times He’s revealed Himself to you or met your need. There’s no rush to move on from adoration, but if you have requests, begin presenting them one by one, and imagine placing each in the outstretched hands of God. Again, take your time. Get comfortable in His presence, knowing you have an attentive and compassionate audience of One.

Prayer is the practice of un-fracturing our attention and simply being with God—the only omnipresent one. As we shift our focus from prayer to Bible study in tomorrow’s devotion, remember: The pressure is off. This divine relationship requires some discipline, but it’s a burden made easy by our delight in the Lord.

Digging Deeper

• Use your imagination to shift from a to-do list mindset to a delight mindset. What would it be like to sit beside Jesus? Try to envision the scene with as much sensory detail as possible.
• Experiment with praying out loud by yourself and finding physical postures that bring your body in line with your spirit—kneeling, lying prostrate, hands uplifted, head bowed.
• Look for people in your local church, family, or community who are heartsick from unanswered prayer. Spend some time to come alongside them in their pain without requiring that they suddenly cheer up or feel better.

Prayer

Father, thank You for always being present. In You I have constant support and connection, and I know You’re always listening. I confess I need Your help to discover delight in prayer once more. Guide me in finding the words, posture, and attitude that most reflect Your heart. My desire is to commune with You, building our relationship as I align myself with the words “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Amen.