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Are you happy with your prayer life? Do you pray as much as you know you should or wish you could? I believe when you learn to incorporate prayer into your daily lifestyle, your prayer time and effectiveness will increase greatly.
Here’s how it works to pray continually. You must become intentional about practicing the presence of Jesus. That means, you must determine to be aware—at all times and in all places—that because you are a Christ-follower and have been born again, you are surrounded with the presence of Jesus all day, every day, 24/7. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, you have him with you at all times; the problem for us is we all too often don’t recognize or acknowledge his presence.
For example, let’s say you have a really close friend or family member—that person on this earth closest to you. You are with them as often as possible, and when you are with them, you communicate. You share the problems and issues of your life, but you also share the joys. You laugh together; you cry together; sometimes you’re just silent together, but that person’s presence is there with you.
This is not a perfect analogy, but just consider that Jesus is your best friend, your closest companion, your confidant. And, unlike earthly companions, he is with you 24/7. You’re never away from him. So, if you are aware that he is there, what are you likely to do? You’re going to talk with him, right? Whatever is happening to you in your day, you’re going to share it with Jesus. When you need help or guidance, he’s right there to show you the way. When you see something beautiful, he loves you to share that experience with him. When something makes you laugh, he laughs with you. When sorrow fills your heart, he cries with you.
This is the meaning of praying continually—praying at all times. As you develop awareness of his presence, then boldly and confidently talk to him throughout your days—all days, everywhere. Just simply take advantage of your privilege of praying in the flow of life, and as you learn to do this, you are learning what it means to pray without ceasing. You never cut off the communication with Jesus. You don’t have to say “Amen,” meaning this is the end of my prayer time, and I’ll come back later. You just keep the conversation going all the time.
And the good news is, you can pray with eyes open or closed, by yourself or in a crowd, out loud or silently. Prayer is not limited by any of our usual prayer routines; we can truly pray continually, and what an incredible blessing and privilege that is.
