Prayer...

As a follower of Christ for more than thirty years I have come to the conclusion that prayer is the easiest and, at the same time, the most difficult discipline a follower of Christ can engage in. It is among the BJP's which clearly state the importance and power of prayer. However,  prayer for me is often difficult. Other believers have said the same thing. Why do we find it so hard to do so often? Perhaps some of us or lazy or impatient. Others of us are too embarrassed or ashamed to speak to God thinking that what we have done disqualifies us from prayer or that our problems are too insignificant to bother The Lord of the universe. For many, and I'm just keeping it real, prayer seems like we are only talking into thin air or whispering in an empty room. I know that God hears my prayers. I have seen the evidence of it. But often, too often, I have this strange feeling of distance and isolation.

There is a saying among Christians that reveals much about of our view and practice of prayer: when all else fails try God".  We make a habit of praying as a last resort when chaos hits our lives. Other wise it remains a sporadic, occasion exercise for most of us. But why? We know that Through prayer, we have access to the source of power. We know that God intervenes. We know that God honors it when we turn from our daily routines, turn our hearts to Him, and say "Lord, you take over".  Why is it then, that we so often only pray when we are seized with panic or when we come to the end of our own resources?

I confess that the longer I live the more rebuked I am over my own prayerlessness. I would love to tell you that I am a model of faithful consistent prayer.... But I can't. I believe in prayer but I am no different than anyone else. Many times, prayer is what I try when when everything else has failed. So I understand. We all need help, myself included.

What does all this mean for you. It means that even though Prayer will likely be a struggle at times, it is well worth the battle. Prayer among other things strengthens our relationship with God and strengthens your faith. We can't have A good relationship with someone we don't talk to. Despite what your heart may tell you, God is always there and is always ready to listen and respond. He longs for us to spend time with Him, to share every aspect of our lives with Him and to reassure us the he cares. He  Cares deeply.

The intimate moments with God are all important. We stand tallest when on our knees before God. Always remember that our God hears and answers prayer. No matter what you may some times think or feel, no matter what you hear others say, hold firmly to this great truth of the Christian faith: God hears you when you cry out to Him and WILL respond.