Keys to the Kingdom

What comes to mind when you think about prayer? Does the thought of praying give you peace or excitement? Or does it make you feel intimidated or inadequate?

I've experienced both sets of emotions. I've also underestimated the power of prayer and questioned if God was even listening to me. The truth is, prayer is our direct line of communication to God, and it's a powerful tool. 

1 Peter 3:12 reads, "...For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their prayer."

Jeremiah 29:12-13 reads, "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

What Prayer Really Is

Prayer is simply a conversation with God, and even in its simplicity, it is how we exercise our authority for heavenly intervention here on earth and in our daily lives. It was never meant to be intimidating or discouraging. God wants to hear from you, AND He wants to speak to you. Prayer is one of the ways that happens. You don't have to pray long or talk eloquently. The only requirement is that you are genuine.

When we pray, we increase our dependence on God and invite Him into our daily lives. Prayer was meant to be more than an emergency hotline; it's the guide that helps direct us, the gas that keeps us going, and access to the living water that restores us. God does not want to be on the sideline watching us try to figure things out; He wants to do life with us. Prayer is how we invite Him in. 

So when you pray, throw out any rules you may have adopted and talk to God like you would speak to a close friend. Confide in Him and have faith that He hears you and will respond to you. 

Prayer is like having a key to the Kingdom of God. Why not use it?

Journal prompt: Write out a prayer to God about your day or week and speak it aloud. Believe in faith and wait in expectation for God to respond.

What’s Next

Listen to Upgrade Your Life with Prayer on my podcast and don’t forget to join me live for prayer every Monday at 7 PM CST. All the details can be found here.