Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:00 — 4.1MB)
It seems that most Christians struggle in some way or another with prayer in their lives. Either we don’t take time for it, or when we do, we don’t really know how to pray effectively. Remember that the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, and he did. So, prayer is something to be learned; to get better at; to improve in.
Do you pray about every part of your day before it begins? This is really important and I encourage you to do this. Early in the day, before you are bombarded with all that’s going to happen, turn every part of the day over to God. Think through your schedule and pray about everything you know will be in your day. For example:
“Lord, today I have to get this job finished. I feel overwhelmed with all there is to do. Please give me wisdom and show me how to approach this project.”
“Lord, today I have to deal with a certain person. She gets under my skin very easily. Please help me to see her the way you see her and give me patience in dealing with her today.”
“Lord, today I have to drive a long way. Please protect me and deliver me from any harm.”
Nothing is too big or small to pray about in your day, and if you will cover every part of your day in prayer ahead of time, you’ll be amazed at how much better your day goes. If you have a long commute, that might be a good time for you to pray about the day ahead.
I have found that when I pray specifically about the day ahead, I am much more aware of God’s presence in that day, and I am more productive, more joyful, less impatient, and nicer to be around! Everyone around you will appreciate the fact that you bath your day in prayer, even if they don’t know you do it. They’ll see the evidence of it in your life.