A Few Thoughts About Prayer

Random thoughts, and personal feelings about prayers, and others praying for me.

This Morning's Reflection: A Conversation with God

Many years ago, I asked my mother how to pray—how to get God to listen to me. Her answer surprised me. She said it was as simple as having a conversation with her. I didn't believe it could be that easy. But from that day until now, my prayers to God have been just that: simple conversations, straight from my heart.

The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing.

That's a hard one, especially if you have a one-track mind. I find it easy to pray while driving. There's quiet, space, and no distractions. But when life gets noisy. Running meetings, fielding questions, responding to criticism, caring for others, and meeting deadlines, it's harder to stay prayerful and calm.

Still, God invites us to pray.

"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him." —Matthew 6:7 8
Prayers don't have to be long or elaborate. It doesn't need to cover every wrong, every hurt, or every person.

Sometimes, short and sweet is enough. Open your heart. Talk to your Father. Trust that He already knows. He just wants to hear from you.

Remember, He's listening to the whole world. And most, if not all, need His attention.

Be Careful Who You Ask to Pray for You

It's common to ask "prayer warriors" to intercede on your behalf. But be mindful. Many people know the Word of God, even the devil does. In Matthew 4, Satan tried to tempt Jesus by quoting scripture.

Knowing scripture doesn't mean someone is living it. I've seen people use scripture to shame believers. So yes, ask for prayer, but know who you're asking.

Pray for Yourself

It's not a sin to pray for yourself. But start with thanks. God has already done so much—like a loving parent who provides shelter, food, clothing, light, and water. He's done all that and more.

Thank Him. Acknowledge Him. He knows your voice, your heart, and your needs, even before you ask.

He also tells us to pray for one another. If someone is sick, bring them to the elders for prayer, anointing, and faith. The Lord will raise them and forgive their sins. So yes, ask others to pray for you, but again, know who you're asking.

Your Conversation with God

Be honest. Be clear. Be obedient. Be purposeful. Be humble.
Put God first in your prayers, others second, and yourself last.
But do talk to Him. Tell Him what you want. Trust Him to answer, and know when going into your secret place or room or closet to pray that His answer may be yes, no, maybe, or not now. He knows your every need, want, and desire. Trust His answer.

There are many scriptures in the Bible that teach us about praying and when to pray. And for those of us who can no longer read the Bible, technology makes it accessible through spoken words, and in many languages, often for free.

Your talk with God is personal.

He is your Father. He's waiting to hear from you. No formality. No fancy words. No credentials required.

Just you. Just Him. Just a moment of your time.

He made you.

He knows you.

He is waiting.