Importance of Prayer

16 Apr 98

Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.

Many people said the classic "Bless mommy and daddy" prayers as children while they knelt beside their beds. There are several short classic meal prayers that people have so memorized that they can say them in their sleep. This is a frightening fact. Most Christians just don’t pray enough.

Prayer is personal conversation with God. It is the foundation of a Christian walk with God. It is so important that Daniel would rather face death than even reduce the amount he prayed. There are many times listed in the bible where Jesus himself prayed. Prayer is vital for a Christian walk, yet many Christians try to make it on memorized "bless them" type prayers.

Most relationships fall apart because of one very basic problem: lack of communication. Marriage counselors usually simply open up communication lines, and the whole relationship gets fixed. Even friendships can fall apart if you stop communicating regularly. You grow apart. The same is true of you and God. If you don’t talk with him often, you will grow away from him. You will lose your Godly mindset, and gradually drift toward a sinful lifestyle.

Marriage counselors can cost hundreds of dollars an hour. Isn’t it great that we can repair our relationship with God for free. All we have to do is take a few minutes, a day to pray. Your mindset will improve, and things will happen. God will answer every prayer you pray, I promise you that.

Prayer at meals is a great way to encourage prayer time. I know that when I go to eat, I will usually end up talking to a few friends even before I sit down. Why not talk with God as well.

Prayer just before bed is great, because talking with God calms you down, and helps you sleep more peacefully. You can wake more rested and ready to serve him the next day.

My favorite time for prayer is in the morning. Starting the day out for God is awesome. You will be able to see him help you throughout your day if you look, plus it is easier to serve him if you start you day out with him.

Prayer is about the most important part of the Christian walk. God wants to talk with you.

Have a prayer-filled day, my friends,

Jered SLEDGEHAMMER