Practising Prayer

Not many of us would be comfortable enough to hold our prayer habits up for public inspection unless we plan to give a lesson on how to be haphazard, neglectful and disappointed when we pray. Clearly, Jesus’ own disciples also felt this way, and their first ‘prayer’ was the humble request, ‘Lord, teach us to pray…’.

Jesus reassures us that we can learn to pray well. He outlines the beautiful balance and order of a thoughtful conversation with God. His example directs us to acknowledge who we are speaking to, voice our desire for transformation and identify our dependence on God for all we cannot achieve ourselves. We are to first look up, then look around and finally consider ourselves.

When we are discouraged because our prayers appear unanswered, Jesus, in this passage, gives us a very clear instruction: keep praying. It would be wise to humbly re-evaluate what we are asking for, or when and how we expect the answer to be given, but under no circumstances are we to abandon faithful petition.

The promised outcome of obedience is that we will see his goodness when we are diligent in prayer. Just like training in a sport, dedication to the goal involves a wholehearted involvement of mind, spirit and body. It is as if Christ pleads, Please keep asking. Please seek me, and throw yourself upon the door of my mercy, and I will meet you there.

Like any relationship, as we experience the many facets of our Father, our communication with him matures. With more profound conversation, we learn more of his heart. There is intrinsic reward in honouring him by how we conduct ourselves in prayer.

Respond in Prayer

Father in heaven, reverently I come before you. Grant me only gifts that advance your great plan. Teach me excellence in prayer so that I can participate in the work of your Spirit. When I fail, thank you that Christ intercedes for me. Amen.

Miriam Wickett

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).