Praying Like JesusSample

Give Us Today Our Daily Bread

God wants us to seek Him continually. One reason is because He knows we live in a state of continual need. Be assured of this: He hears you when you call out to Him. As we draw near to Him, not only does He listen, but He also speaks, affirms, guides, corrects, convicts, comforts, and strengthens us.

As we make our earnest and specific requests to God, we often experience some form of encouragement. We might see circumstances begin to change, or urgent needs being suddenly met. We also become more aligned, and grow to look more like Christ. His love, joy, and peace fill our hearts and minds.

One of the most compelling reasons to bring our requests before God in prayer is this: Jesus told us to.In fact, He encourages us to ask and keep on asking, to be persistent in prayer, and to continue talking with Him about everything we need.

You may wonder, “What if I ask but God doesn’t do what I had hoped?” But friend, what if you don’t ask, or stop asking? What then?

Instead of worrying over what God may or may not do, let’s apply what the apostle Paul taught us:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

It’s time to stop worrying—and pray. Reach out. Cry out. Bow down before Him. Take hold.

Thank God for His goodness. Ask Him again for what you need or desire. And allow God’s peace to cover and calm you.

Pause and Reflect

Take your concerns and needs to the Father and ask Him to take care of them. Ask in confident faith. Be specific and bold, and sincerely share all your feelings and requests. Then rest in Him, trusting in His goodness.

Pray

Holy Father, thank You for meeting my every need. You are my everything. I want to devote myself to knowing, loving, and seeking You in prayer. I praise You for always having Your ear turned to me. You listen to my requests because You love and care for me. Help me to keep my thoughts fixed on You so I won’t worry about the things of this world. I believe that You care about every detail of my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.