Prayer is the lifeline of our faith, connecting us directly with God and allowing us to build an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father. But why is prayer so critical for us?
To Connect with Our All-Powerful and All-Loving God
Through prayer, we are able to come into the presence of, and spend valuable time with, the mighty Lord of the universe! Although God might seem far above us, prayer gives us direct access to speak with Him – an incredible gift! As we talk openly with God, pouring out our heart to Him, we align ourselves with His perfect will and open ourselves to His supernatural peace, comfort, wisdom and joy. Our connection with God in prayer is the source of our strength, hope and power.
To Align Our Will with God’s Plan
As we pray, we surrender our own desires to God’s greater plan for our lives. Rather than trying to force our will, prayer helps us submit in humility to the Lord who sees the full picture. When Jesus prayed in anguish in Gethsemane, He declared –“Yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). As we follow Christ’s example, prayer enables us to trust God’s will. Through prayer, we gain the faith and courage to align ourselves with God’s purpose.
To Make Our Requests Known to Our Heavenly Father
God wants us to bring all our needs, wants, and burdens to Him through prayer! He is waiting patiently for us to rely fully on Him rather than trying to handle things in our own limited strength. From major life decisions to even the smallest daily concerns – God tells us to cast all our cares upon Him, and pray about everything! (Philippians 4:6; 1 Peter 5:7). He delights to answer our specific requests according to His divine wisdom and timing
To Discern God’s Guidance and Gain His Wisdom
God also uses prayer to guide and direct our paths by revealing His specific plan for our lives. We are encouraged to pray for wisdom whenever we lack discernment and understanding. As James says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all” (James 1:5). Through prayer God opens our eyes, both to the next steps we should take and to those things that are not His will for us. Seeking God’s guidance in prayer is crucial!
Jesus taught that prayer should bring believers into continual communion and dependence on our Heavenly Father. He urges all, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). As we pray, God promises to be found and to open doors. Truly, prayer is the key to living out our faith!