Prayer: Just Do It. ~ Day 2

Billy Graham said that, "Prayer is spiritual communication between man and God, a two-way relationship in which man should not only talk to God but also listen to Him." It makes sense, then, that the Lord wants our relationship to be right not only with Him, but also with others before we come into His presence and petition Him with our concerns. Consider, in that light, the Scriptures for today's focus.

According to Scripture, what should be the state of our heart and relationships, when praying?

• Mark 11:25 ~ And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
• Acts 12:5 ~ So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
• Psalm 17:1 ~ [A prayer of David.] Give ear to my prayer— it does not rise from deceitful lips.
• Matthew 5:44 ~ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
• 1 Timothy 2:8 ~ without anger or disputing.
• 2 Timothy 1:3 ~ I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.

Here are two ideas for practicing prayer:

Prayer Journal
A prayer journal can be used to write out personal prayers, even noting the dates of answered prayers. If you are easily distracted writing even a prayer list, is one way to keep focused during prayer time.

Scripture Prayers
Read Scripture and turn it into a personal prayer for yourself or others. The Psalms are already loaded with heartfelt thoughts that we can read aloud and make personal. Look at Psalm 23, Psalm 100, and Psalm 139. You can also take other Scripture and make them personal by using the first narrative. For example, consider Philippians 4:4-7, which has been turned into a prayer.

Lord God, help me to rejoice in you always. Your word says to Rejoice! I pray I would know the full meaning of rejoicing in you. Lord, you desire for my gentleness be evident to all, and I praise you Lord for making that possible. You, Lord, are near to me. You alone keep me from being anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, enable me to come to you with thanksgiving, presenting my requests to You. I continue to pray, Lord, that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus.

Tomorrow we will look at Scriptures that describe the Biblical reason for prayer. Until then, take time today to look over these Scriptures and respond in obedience to Him!