What is prayer? The simple answer is this: prayer is having a conversation with God. Conversation is a part of any vital and growing relationship. We sometimes measure the quality of a marriage relationship by how well the couples communicate. Or to state it another way, one of the first things people point to as evidence that a marriage is in trouble is a lack of communication. The same is true for our relationship with the Father. True, honest, heartfelt conversation is a sign of a healthy relationship. A lack of conversation or conversation only in public is a sign of a relationship in trouble.
Prayer is a privilege purchased by the blood of Jesus Christ. Christ died for this end, it cost him the shedding of his blood, so that we, through him, might have entrance to the throne of grace. And will you let such a privilege as this lie still? If you do, so far as is in you, you cause his blood to be shed in vain. For if you neglect the privileges gotten by that blood, you neglect the blood that procured them.In the Apostle Paul's first letter to Thessalonica we are told to pray without ceasing: "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, KJV). The Greek word "without ceasing" means continuous action. Therefore, "praying without ceasing" means to pray continuously. How does one pray continually? We cannot always be on our knees. With the daily demands on our busy lives, we are fortunate to kneel in prayer even a few minutes each day. However, we can pray while driving, changing the baby, washing dishes, or running a lawn mower -- we can be open to the leading of the Spirit when He urges us to pray for something or someone. At that time, we can agree with God and make a mental note to add that concern to our later prayer time. Through prayer our lives are linked to a Sovereign God, and His purposes are fulfilled in our world. A prayer less life is a self-sufficient and fruitless life. How much time have I spent in prayer in the past twenty four hours? ~My prayer~ Father, what an incredible gift it is that You would invite me to come before Your throne and lay before You my own needs, as well as the needs of others. Forgive me for so often trying to solve things on my own, rather than looking to You to meet the need. Help me to know what is on Your heart, and then to intercede according to Your will, that Your purposes may be fulfilled throughout the earth
2008 Patricia Bankhead
I am just a humble servant who loves writing for God. It brings me much joy to uplift and to inspire others. It is my desire to be all that God wants me to be and help others do the same.
Article Source: CHRISTIAN WRITERS
