PRAYER

 June 24, 2026

Prayer – our instant communication with God and Jesus. And when words fail us, the Holy Spirit knows what we want, or need, to say and He presents it before God.

Jesus, of course, gave us the perfect example, with the Lord’s Prayer, shown in Matthew Chapter 6.  I believe prayer should first acknowledge Who our amazing God is, and to thank Him for what He has done for us. Worship of Him first and foremost whenever possible.

Some people pray long and loud, invoking the power of the Creator. They know the value of praying scripture, of understanding God’s promises, and so they speak them. For some this can be intimidating to hear!

Some pray in minute detail, for they know God IS very much interested in the details of our lives, even though He already knows all about them!

Others pray in a more hesitant manner, softly, quietly, or using simple words. No scripture quotes, but with a heart and faith that know He hears them as much as He hears their more vocal brethren.

And then there are the “in the moment” prayers, often not spoken aloud, but a silent cry uttered in the face of panic or crisis.

Is one better than the other? Of course not. They all matter, and they all underscore our own unique characters and personalities that are already well known to the One Who created you.

There are prayers for intercession, (Genesis 18:23-32) for the aching desires of the heart (1 Samuel 1:10-11), or seeking a blessing (Genesis 32:26). And prayers for mercy and forgiveness. (Exodus 32:11-14)

Psalms, in the Old Testament, is full of examples of heartfelt prayer, brought by joy, thanksgiving, anguish, grief, or fear.

As a young child, I credit my mother with encouraging me to "just talk with God, about anything, anytime". A trait that has been my grounding for nearly 7 decades. My prayer life is a blend of structured (even pre-planned) prayer, which is devoted, or in warrior mode, for a specific person or situation, to just talking about whatever is placed on my heart. And often countless times to say "Thank you" for a beautiful sunset, an available parking spot, the kindness of a stranger. Genuine prayer life is that quiet, steady awareness of God that walks with you through your normal day.  Praying without ceasing, to me, is another way of saying being in prayer is second nature. It provides the ability to reach out to the Creator of the Universe, My Saviour, and Holy Spirit, instantly and is only a thought, or word away. And what an incredible blessing!

Prayer is talking with your Heavenly Father. When we are new in the faith our prayer life may revolve more around us and our fears, desires, and wishes. With maturity comes the knowledge that prayer is so much more than just about us.

But then, and this is so important, wait on His answer. You don’t go to the doctor with a list of questions or concerns, hand them over, and then leave before the doctor can address them. It’s the same with God. Allow Him the time to respond. You may not get all the answers, or the answer you were hoping for, but rest assured God only ever wants what is best for you.

If you want more examples of the kinds of prayers, and situations where prayer was needed, in the Bible, do a search for Biblical examples of prayer. The Bible provides us with a wealth of people who knew how to pray, who knew how to wait on answers, and who depended on God every moment of their lives.

Please, don’t think your prayers are ever ineffectual or worthless. God hears them and He sees your heart.

And if you haven’t already, pray for Jesus to come into your life, to forgive your sins, to be the Saviour of your life – to be born again.  Time is short.

Awaiting His Return

Liz