Teach us to Pray The Object of Prayer

Teach us to Pray

The Object of Prayer

                The one we draw near to in prayer is so great, it’s only logical that we His creatures should approach Him in humility”. So states Sandra Glahn. 

Peter wrote to suffering Christians that we are to humble ourselves under God because he cares for us. Prayer makes a difference in our lives so we can tell him about our cares and our concerns. God loves us and is ‘near to all who call on him to all who call on him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18) God invites us to draw near and He promises that if we do, He will draw near to us.

                But what about the power of prayer?  As Christians we underestimate the power we invoke through prayer. God is so much power and yet He listens to what we ask. Even though he has created billions of stars in the many galaxies of the universe, he still hears the prayers of individuals. Prayer is “talking with the invisible, speak-worlds-into being, keeps tracks of all stars sent His Son for us God.” Because God is invisible we sometimes wonder if God really hears us when we pray and rain does not fall, when we ask for healing and it does not happen. But we should not give up but to pray continually. So often we are tempted to give up because we might feel that our prayers are not going anywhere. Yet Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you.” Petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving prayers are to be made for all people and God will hear and respond.

                To whom do you pray? What are you saying/asking/ sharing? Do you believe your prayers are answered your way or by God’s ways? Sometimes we may not like the answers we get—yes, no, maybe- not yet. But God does answer. The key thing about prayer is to do it and never quit. What we ask for might need to be modified and changed- but how we speak and share our thoughts with God goes beyond the words we say. For God knows our needs before we ask. God knows our joy and wonder, hurts and pains and is ready always to hear us. Just pray.

REFLECTION
Have you ever felt that your prayers were left unanswered or totally opposite to what you wanted? What does this mean for us as we pray? God does answer prayer but He also knows the full picture of what your life involves and the choices you made. God’s answers to your prayers are intended to help and guide you. If you have concerns or questions, God will help! Just talk with God!

PRAYER

Holy God we praise you for the gift of prayer-being able to talk with you and seeking your guidance and strength in all that we do. Hear our prayers and in your love, answer. Amen.

RESOURCE:  Sandra Glahn, “Teach Us to Pray,” Grand Rapids, MI: Our Daily Bread Ministries, p.1-14