Reflection and Awe: Lent's PurposeSample

Reflections

“To pray is to enter the treasure-house of God and to gather riches out of an inexhaustible storehouse.” –Charles Spurgeon

As we continue our Lent email series, let’s reflect on this week's focused topic: prayer. We discussed the vital role of prayer in our relationship with God and unpacked the notion that prayer is part of our foundation of faith.

As we reflect on these truths, let’s recommit to prayer as a practice and a way of life. Our previous week was on fasting, and this week, we focused on prayer. They are a dynamic duo, allowing us to strip away the temptations and desires of the flesh as we humbly commune with the Lord. We see Jesus fasting and praying in Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11), so let’s be encouraged to put them into practice.

Prayer is a gift—a divine invitation to commune with the Creator of heaven and earth. This week, we’ve explored how prayer draws us near to God, shapes our hearts, and empowers us to live in His will. Let’s take a moment to review and reflect on what we’ve learned about prayer and its transformative power.

Through Prayer, We Draw Near to God
Prayer is a way to express our gratitude and awe for His greatness, seek His forgiveness, and align our hearts with His perfect will. Whether praising Him for His provision or bringing our burdens before Him, prayer is a continual reminder of His presence in our lives. Jesus taught us to pray in Luke 11:1-4, showing us how to approach the Father with humility, dependence, and trust.

God is Growing and Changing Us
In prayer, God works within us, shaping our character and drawing us closer to His likeness. Confession is a key part of this process. When we share our struggles with God and trusted believers, we experience healing and restoration. By seeking God’s forgiveness and living in obedience, we cultivate righteousness and open our hearts to His transformative work.

Practicing Gratitude and Trusting in God’s Peace
Gratitude and trust are essential aspects of a faithful prayer life. When we thank God for His past provision, we strengthen our trust in Him for the future. Keeping a gratitude journal can help us remember His faithfulness and answered prayers.

Practical Steps for a Faithful Prayer Life
This week, we considered ways to grow in our prayer life:

1. Set aside time: Dedicate a specific time and place for daily prayer.
2. Communicate with God: Speak openly with God and listen for His guidance.
3. Pray with praise and thanksgiving: Cultivate a heart of gratitude and worship, even in challenging times.
4. Persevere in prayer: Trust God’s timing and continue to pray, even when answers seem delayed.

Partnering with God
Finally, we are reminded that God chooses to partner with us in His work. Jesus modeled perfect humility and obedience, ultimately surrendering to the Father’s will at the cross. This Easter, let’s embrace humility and invite God to use us for His purposes.

As we reflect on these truths, let’s recommit to prayer as a practice and a way of life. Our previous week was on fasting, and this week, we focused on prayer. They are a dynamic duo, allowing us to strip away the temptations and desires of the flesh as we earnestly seek God’s will. We see Jesus fasting and praying in Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11), so let’s be encouraged to put them into practice.

Through prayer, we encounter God’s compassion, strength, and power. May we be challenged and inspired by the Holy Spirit to deepen our connection with Him and live in His peace.