When You Pray
All believers know the importance of prayer for the Christian life. However, we so often neglect the biblical practice. Remember, the Lord Jesus did not teach in the Sermon on the Mount that prayer was an option. He did not say, "If you pray." Three times in Matt 6:5-7 He said, "When you pray" before stating in verse 9, "In this manner, therefore, pray. . . ." The apostles repeat this theme throughout the New Testament with instructions such as, "Continue earnestly in prayer" and "Pray without ceasing." Prayer is to be a part of the life of the church and the individual Christian. It is one of our chief spiritual disciplines. We are to pray that God's will be done. We are to pray for rulers. We are to pray for one another as well as evangelistic work throughout the world. We are to cast all our cares upon the Lord because He cares for us!
Maybe you have neglected this important aspect of your life and relationship with our God. Let me encourage you to stop right this moment and pray to the Father. Before finishing this email, STOP and pray.
Now that you have renewed your prayer life, keep it up! Stop at points in your day, head over to another room if necessary, even get on your knees, and speak with the Lord. Share your burdens with Him, but also pray for His kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth!