Alright. I need you to stop what you’re doing and pray! Right now. Yes! Right now. Put down the bulletin and come back to me when you’re done.
Sometimes we need a good reminder to pray. Unfortunately, it is far too easy for us to forget. There are so many things of far less value that we never forget to do. So, why does prayer seem to go by the wayside so often? Do we realize how much we are missing in our lives when we neglect to pray? Here is a quick reminder of why we should be praying.
Prayer is how we communicate our needs and wants to God. Philippians 4:6 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” There are a lot of things we stress about—things we need to take care of in our families. God says, tell Me about them and stop worrying. Do you believe God will take care of your needs?
Prayer helps us think clearly. James 1:5 tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” In this life, we will be faced with situations that require careful consideration. We can ask God for help! Do you believe God will give you wisdom?
Prayer brings us closer together. James commands us in James 5:13 and 16, “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms…Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” When we pray, we have an opportunity to share in each other’s burdens. We share joys, and we share failures. Do you believe God will strengthen your relationships with your brethren?
Prayer keeps me from sin. In Matthew 26:41, Jesus warned His disciples, “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” The Bible tells us that Satan is roaming about, looking for ways to tempt us (cf. 1 Pet. 5:8). We cannot expect to avoid his traps on our own. We need the Lord. Do you believe God will lead you from temptations?
As Christians, we have the most amazing tool at our disposal. We have direct access to the Creator of the universe through prayer. Do not neglect this privilege. Jesus tells us in Mark 11:24, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.” Do you truly believe God is going to answer your prayers? Then make sure you talk to Him. Praise Him, thank Him, and spend time with Him. Do it right now!