Every relationship requires time and commitment to develop. The same is true when it comes to spending time with God. Reading His word daily is like reading a letter directly from Him. Another essential part to having a relationship with God is through prayer. However, some of us are worried about how to pray.
Reverence Not Fear
Many Christians know prayer is important, but have a rough time figuring out how to pray “properly or comfortably.” The thoughts of “This is God or Jesus Christ I’m talking to” might hinder their ability to relax and just talk with Him for fear of making a mistake and embarrassing oneself.
After all, there are so many references in the Bible about “fear” that it can conjure up thoughts of anxiety regarding praying to God. It’s understandable if this is how you feel, but please lighten up. If you look up the original meaning of the word fear in each verse that you find it; you will notice that sometimes the word fear represents reverence not fright and anxiety.
Yes, there is an amount of respect to be shown to our Lord and Savior but He knows you better than you know yourself. Jesus looks at your heart. He may be royalty but “British” style protocol need not be followed when talking with our Savior. God is happy to have your time and attention regardless of “proper etiquette.” Remember, He loves you so much, He sent His own Son Jesus to save us from hell, not put us there.
What is the Best Way to Pray?
The best way to learn how to pray to God was explained by Jesus himself in Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:1-4.
Take the time to really look at the first section of the prayer.
It says “Our Father.” He didn’t say your royal highness, or other words to make us feel unworthy, He said “Father” a word that represents someone who cares and loves his children. Please, as you read this prayer that Jesus taught us to pray, keep that part of the prayer in mind.
You may be surprised at how the prayer takes on a new meaning. If you’re a parent who loves their children you will begin to see how it is full of love and concern for the souls of His children.
Our Father in Heaven,
Hallowed be thy name,
Your kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On Earth as it is in Heaven,
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors,
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one,
For yours is the kingdom and the power
And the glory forever, AMEN
A Closer Look
Well, kinda cool huh? Let’s look at the basic format:
1: Praise GOD first, he created everything including you.
2: His will is paramount. His word stands.
3: After we recognize the power and love of God we humbly ask for what we need or want.
4: Ask for forgiveness and realize we must forgive others who have wronged us.
5: Ask for protection from Satan’s evil.
6: Close your prayer praising God again for all He is and all He has given you. Remember, He is God.
You’ll noticed most of the attention is given to praising God. Always remember HE is GOD, He is bigger than any problem that needs to be solved. I am not minimizing your needs but if we take our eye off the actual glory of God we, in our heart let problems replace God. He is bigger than any problem.
Once you realize God is actually for you. Jesus won’t act like an untouchable leviathon that breathes doom if a mistake is made. Forgiveness is there, relax He understands. Jesus becomes your friend. He is a big God and He wants you with Him.