The Practice of Prayer

“Pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Jesus tells his disciples three times “When you pray…” (Matthew 6:5, 6, 7).

Notice Jesus did not say “If you pray…” Jesus simply states “When you pray…” Jesus assumes that his disciples pray because there is no way for his disciples to follow God without praying.

There are many ways people can organize their prayer life. In this entry I share with you how I organize my prayer life. The main thing is that you are intentional about prayer and that you have a plan. Set aside time everyday to lift up prayers and to listen to God’s guidance.

During this season of Advent as we prepare and remember the purpose of Christ’s coming, I encourage you to make a plan for how you will engage in the practice of prayer. Simply put, there is no such thing as a follower of Jesus who does not pray. Prayer is one of the most important practices of a follower of Jesus Christ.

Here is my weekly prayer schedule:

• Mondays – I pray for missionaries, ministries, pastors, and friends who are abroad
• Tuesdays – I pray for my family
• Wednesdays – I pray for my friends
• Thursdays – I pray for people in the Little Church and Lakewoodgrace
• Fridays – I pray for our session and deacons
• Saturdays – I pray for our church staff
• Sundays – I pray for our weekend worship services

This way, when I promise to be praying for you, I can make sure that I keep my promise to pray for you.

The key to the practice of prayer is to have a plan. Find a plan that works for you and stick to it. God loves to answer prayer and prayer is one of the most powerful tools we have as Christians for God to guide and lead his church.

I pray for you. You are in my prayers because you are loved.