Prayer

Prayer is the privilege we have to communicate with God, the Father, the Almighty Creator of the Universe. WOW!  And what's more, He wants us to come to Him in prayer.  It's mind-blowing when you think about it. Philippians 4:6 tells us to "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God."

As great as this privilege is, sometimes I struggle with my prayer life. The scripture above shows us that we can bring anything to the Father, and Matthew 6:9 instructs us to "pray without ceasing". I struggle at times, not only with what to pray for, but also, with being consistent.  Anyone else have this problem?

I didn't figure I was alone in this so, below are a few ideas that will help you jump-start your prayer life.

Things you can pray for:

• Thank God for his blessings and answered prayers.
• Pray praises to God for all that He is.
• Pray for your family.
• Pray for the sick.
• Pray for the healing of your country.
  
• Pray for your friends.
• Pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ.
• Pray for the church the world over.
• Pray for your local, state, and national leaders.
• Pray for your neighbors.
• Pray for your children's school teachers and friends.
• Pray for your boss and coworkers.
• Pray for missionaries.
• Pray for doctors, nurses, and EMTs.
• Pray for your local fire and police departments.
• While standing in line at the grocery store, bank, etc., pray for the people around you.
• Pray for other drivers on the road.
• Pray for those who don't know Jesus as the Savior of their lives.
• Pray for wisdom.
• Pray for patience.
• Pray for understanding of the Word.
• Confess your sins.
• Pray for forgiveness.

Tips for making pray a habit:

• Use a prayer journal to document requests and note answered prayers.
• Make a prayer schedule. Use an alarm on your phone or a prayer reminder app to help you.
• Write out your prayers from time-to-time.
• Use post-it notes as a reminder at work or in your car.
• Read scripture about prayer daily.
  
• Listen to God. When He puts something or someone on your heart, act on it immediately with prayer.

These are just a few suggestions that have helped me. 

Praying is not about trying to impress God. Our prayers should not be long, drawn-out ramblings with no meaning ("And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think with their many words they will be heard."). They should be a humble, sincere, and honest communication with God. When we understand our complete reliance on our Father in heaven, prayer becomes as essential to our lives as food and water. 

Have any tips you want to share?  I would love to hear them!