Why you should develop the ability to pray.

Why you should develop the ability to pray. It is a known fact that as a Christian one is expected to pray. Simply put that is how we communicate with God our creator. Now our ability and willingness to pray is largely dependant on our confidence level in prayer. I should say though that this is our ‘perceived’ confidence level in prayer. I find I am more eager to touch base with God when I believe He answered my previous prayer or prayers. I’m most reluctant to contact Him when I believe that my last few attempts at prayer were unsuccessful. This year I want to work on my mindset that believes because I ask the Lord has not choice but to give me what I have asked for.

Prayer is about relationship

This year I want to be conscious of the fact that prayer is about relationship. Jesus our role model prayed, it is recorded in the gospels. The amount of time Jesus spent praying was significant enough that his disciples asked Him to teach them how to pray. And Jesus famously said ‘when you pray’ which implies that it is a given. We should and we will pray. He also taught us how to personalise prayer by addressing God as father. And not just ‘my father’ but ‘our father’ clearly highlighting the fact that God has many children and we are all eligible to approach Him on a level playing field. When was the last time you called on your Father?

Prayer gives access

Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to make our requests known to God by prayer and petitions with thanksgiving. Prayer gives access to all that pertains for life on earth. The means by which we receive from God who is our sustainer and provider is simply by asking. When we have a need, challenge, obstacle, battle we should approach God in prayer. We should state our case confidently trusting that He who hears us will surely answer our request. And remember because many of us forget let us be like the leper who goes back to say thankyou. Because you listened to my prayer, you heard my prayer and you answered my prayer.

Prayer is a discipline

Prayer is a discipline that we should not give up on. This is a survival skill that is essential for believers as we strive to live successful kingdom lives on earth. I believe there is more than one way to pray because there is more than one way to have a conversation with someone you love. Sometimes your conversations with your loved one could be long or they could be short. They could be emotional, joyful, sad or dramatic. Even when you are angry of upset with your loved one you try to keep the lines of communication open. This year I promise to communicate to my heavenly father through the medium of prayer no matter what is going on in my life. I challenge you to the same!