Giving God My Best in College: A 7-Day Devotional by Cantice GreeneSampel

Could Your Prayer Life Use a Boost?

In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Paul writes these words to the new Christian believers, “Pray without ceasing.” That memorable little phrase often reminds me of the importance of prayer.

As an undergrad, I was introduced to morning prayer. A campus ministry at my school hosted prayer at 6 a.m. in a chapel Monday through Friday. Yes, I said 6 a.m.! Didn’t they know classes started at 8 a.m.? It turns out they were not crazy. They were just really in love with Jesus and had a burden to pray for the needs of the students and administrators at our school.

I would oversleep and miss prayer sometimes, but over time, I started looking forward to morning prayer more than any other campus activity. I felt a part of this prayer group more than I had felt a part of any prayer meeting in the past. I could say my prayers aloud just like any other student, and everyone would agree by saying, “Yes, Lord, and Amen.” Between prayers, we sang songs acapella. Then, we continued pouring out our hearts to God for our friends, our families, and our schools.

Prayer came alive to me in college through morning prayer, and it remains a daily practice that no longer intimidates me. There is more than one way to pray, and all it takes is a willing heart. Here are some of the ways I have enjoyed keeping prayer a staple in my life:

1. Meditating daily
2. Prayer journaling
3. Attending corporate prayer at church or school
4. Participating in a prayer vigil (after a national disaster or a local tragedy)
5. Visiting and praying for the sick, disabled, or immobile (in a hospital, nursing home, or NICU)
6. Joining or starting a prayer club at school or church (in person or online)
7. Joining a missionary’s prayer team

When I’m praying for others, I am also blessed. Praying reminds me that God is in control and causes me to count my blessings. Praying for others also makes me more likely to ask for prayer for myself when I’m experiencing difficulties. God wants to work on my behalf, and His work is not always tangible. Sometimes, its purpose is to help me see that He is my sustainer. The daily practice of prayer can change your life in college and help you form a powerful habit that will sustain you in the future.

Day 5 Question: In what new way could you practice prayer?