To pray effectively, it’s essential to approach God with sincerity, humility, and faith. Jesus provides a clear template in the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 (NASB), where He begins with, "Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name." Highlighting the importance of recognising God’s holiness and sovereignty and approaching Him with reverence and adoration as the first step in prayer.
Secondly, a critical aspect of prayer is confession and forgiveness. We acknowledge our sins and extend forgiveness to others, just as we have been forgiven. This helps us pray.
Lastly, effective prayer includes thanksgiving, acknowledging God's goodness and faithfulness. By incorporating these principles, adoration, submission, confession, and thanksgiving, we align our prayers with God's heart and purposes, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and growing in spiritual maturity. Let us, therefore, commit to praying rightly, with hearts and minds attuned to the voice of our loving Father.
Quote
Always make prayer central to your life.
Prayer
Lord, keep me close to Your heart through prayer. Amen.
Action Point
What would happen if you prayed for one hour per day for a week?
Copyright notices
(NASB) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.
Use in other publications. You can use all of this devotional when including this credit. Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.faithlift.org