Rediscover Prayer: A 30-Day Reading Plan From Addison BevereSample

REFLECT

This world is inundated with noise. It seems like every person and product is fighting for our attention. God doesn’t need us to add empty, religious words to the noise. Don’t get me wrong—words are important, but words that emerge from surrendered silence are the most powerful prayers of all.

Prayer is less about speaking and more about listening.

The first chapter of James tackles many dimensions of the praying life, including how to ask for wisdom, move through trials, receive from God, remain steadfast, overcome temptations, know God, and ultimately believe in God’s goodness, which is the substance of all prayer. In verse 18, James essentially writes that God’s “word of truth” should be the prevailing sound over our lives.

To better hear God’s voice, we should be quick to hear and slow to speak.

RECENTER

Take a minute to bring yourself back to the true center of your life: God. Here is a simple prayer that will help you surrender this place, this time, and your awareness to God. “I am here.”

REST

Pause. Breathe. Be still.

In the silence and stillness, listen to your life. Let the necessary words and images form in your consciousness. What thoughts are seeing you from entering rest today?

RECEIVE

What is God saying to you? Write down the whispers, the intimations, the promptings that rise from the pages of Scripture or within your spirit.

RESPOND

How is God inviting you to partner with him today? God’s words become real to us as we move in faith.