Am I Enough: Embracing The Truth About Who You AreSample

Lie #9: Prayer Is Only for When You Need Help

I’ve never claimed to be a person whose every action honors God. But I desire to live that kind of life. Hearing God is how we learn how to honor Him, and prayer is how we communicate with God. There is a lie that prayer is only for when we’re in trouble and we need God to help us. That removes God from being part of our day-to-day walk. That’s not much of a relationship. God desires regular communication between us and Him.

Except, sometimes communication with God hasn’t always felt consistent. At times when God seemed distant, I wondered if I wasn’t good enough for God to listen to me, or for me to hear God. Times like these happen, and chances are you’ve had some too. We revel when we feel connected to God, spiritually right, and immersed in God. Then there are the other times. I’ve gotten mad at God when He didn’t seem to be speaking to me, or when He was not being crystal clear in His directions for me. 

What I’ve learned is that the problem is on my end, not God’s. The truth is, He wants us to run to Him eagerly and kneel at His feet. He cries out for us, as His children, to notice Him, embrace Him, and praise Him. When you’re struggling, He still cares for you. He’s waiting for you to come to Him.

Being busy and distracted by the world’s offerings can cause a dry season with God and take our focus off of Christ. So, schedule time each day to be alone with God. It helps me to keep communication with God a priority when I remember it’s a priority for Him. He is always right there beside each and every one of us. We might not notice Him, but that doesn’t mean He’s avoiding us or just chilling or on break. 

God speaks through prayer, whispering into my heart. God speaks into our minds as we study the Bible and read devotionals. Sometimes God speaks through other believers—you will know this when what they say lines up with the principles of Scripture. God speaks through music, art, circumstances, and through His creation. I often think we complicate God’s voice. Maybe all you need is fresh air, silence, and five minutes staring at the ocean to remind you He is present. He knows how you’re wired, and He knows the most effective and faith-building way to communicate with you. Have faith that God is working even when you can’t sense Him; keep praying and keep seeking Him.

Be authentic and humble when you pray. God already knows everything in your heart and life, so express it to Him. You can’t possibly impress Him with your words—just be yourself and tell the truth. Include Jesus in every part of your life. I think most people get that they can pray in times of trouble. But Jesus wants more—He wants us to spend time sitting at His feet.

Respond

How would you describe the time you spend in prayer? What kind of communication would you like to have with God?

What does it mean to you to praise God—even when you don’t feel like it? 

What does it mean to you that God knows what you need, wants you to know Him, and is working in your life even when you can’t sense Him?