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Let's Talk About Prayer

I once heard a very revealing story that illustrates a common attitude toward prayer. A hunter, lost in the woods, told God that if He would just get him out alive, he would never again allow doubt to enter his mind regarding God's ability to answer prayer. Later, when asked if God answered his prayer, the chap replied. "He didn't have to. A couple of forest rangers came along and rescued me."

This example of unbelief may make us smile, but true prayer, rooted in faith, surely is an important and serious thing. One could study prayer at great length, but we shall only touch upon a few points in this article. What should be our attitude in prayer? What kind of words should we use? When should we pray?

What should be our attitude in prayer?

The prayers recorded in the Bible range from the simple and childlike, to the eloquent and beautiful, but they all constitute direct communication with a great God. In Luke 18:13, a socially despised tax collector bared his heart to God, saying, with bowed head, "God, be merciful to me a sinner." That was it! God was pleased with His prayer. 1 Samuel 1:13 records the equally heart-revealing cry of Hannah. We read that when she prayed only her lips moved, as she inaudibly talked to God, asking Him for a son. If we read her prayer we find it does not express just a passing whim that had caught her attention--her whole life was wrapped up in this request. When it was granted, she recognized the blessing and responsibility that God had given her; she announces in verse 28, regarding Samuel, "as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord." (KJV) Her prayer of thanks in the next chapter is a model of understanding and exaltation to her God.

Clearly, humility and sincerity are essential to true prayer. It is impossible to be either humble or sincere and at the same time be holding onto something that we know is sin. In Psalm 66:18, we read, "If I regard wickedness in my heart, the Lord will not hear." This implies first of all that the person praying must be cleansed from his sins by trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation. The only prayer God will hear from someone who has never become a child of God is one of repentance and faith, as that person acknowledges his need of a Saviour and receives God's gift of salvation. Once a person is saved, he is to confess any sins to God as soon as he is aware of them, and then turn away from the sin. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9). When our conscience is clear and we are not nurturing any unconfessed sin, we have the privilege of bowing in humility before our heavenly Father and knowing that He hears us and will answer according to what is best!

What kind of words should we use?

The language we use need not be complicated. We owe God the utmost respect and should attempt to address Him accordingly. He understands perfectly the essence of our prayer, even before the words are framed within our mind or mouth. Sometimes, when danger presses, as when your car is sliding down a slippery hill, the cry, "Oh, Father!" is ample. He immediately hears and understands our cry for help. At other times, such as the passing of a loved one, we may lie awake for hours with a breaking heart. He understands our sobs and "Why, Lord?" often repeated. He alone can supply comfort to the soul of a believer. He delights to help us in our need.

When exactly should we pray?

The simple answer is: whenever possible! One of the shortest verses in the Bible consists of three words, "Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Does this surprise you? It need not, if you think of prayer as just sharing your thoughts with God.

Are you admiring some beautiful object in His creation? Tell him about it!

Does someone whom you love come to mind? Whisper a "thank you" to God for that relationship.

Do you feel a bit of fear over something you know you need to do? Mention that to God.

If the desire of our heart is pure, then no matter how simple or complicated the issue, we can with confidence speak to the Creator of heaven and earth. He is our Father and loves us. He will never put us on hold, or reply that He is too busy. He delights to have us enter His presence in prayer. He will instantly perceive our motive for speaking to Him, and if our desire is right, will answer the request in His perfect way. Let's take full advantage of the privilege of speaking directly to an all-powerful God.

Remember:

• Prayer is simply talking to God. Tell Him what is on your heart anytime, day or night
• No fancy words are necessary
• God wants you to come to Him in prayer
• He'll answer your prayer in the very best way
• Don't forget to thank Him!