EVER INTERCEDING Overcoming Prayer Struggles BY DIANA BROWN Do you ever struggle to pray?
PRAY IN YOUR OWN WORDS.
Sometimes, finding the time or even the desire to pray can feel like a chore. Other obstacles to a vibrant prayer life might include wondering: How do I talk with God? Or What do I say?
It’s tempting to think that prayer should be a well-written script, put together with biblical terms to sound holy enough for God. But the truth is, we often overcomplicate prayer. Prayer is simply talking to God, not a speech or a formal monologue that we must first write out and then practice.
Regardless of the current stage of your Christian walk, here are some thoughts to make it easier for you to pray more boldly and regularly as you become ever interceding. GOD WANTS YOU TO COME TO HIM. When it comes to talking to God, there are two key things that the Bible points out: God hears us when we pray/talk to Him. God wants us to pray/talk to Him. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. (Jeremiah 29:12 ESV) For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. (I Peter 3:12 ESV) Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:24 ESV) There should be no doubt that we have access or permission to talk to God. God is our Heavenly Father, and the Bible is clear that He wants to hear from us!
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Prayer is a personal conversation with God. God chose us, and therefore, He knows us. He knows your personality – and He loves you. You don’t need to change your voice, tone, accent, or vocabulary to suit Him. For example, there is no reason for a simple prayer like “Lord, thank you so much for loving me” to be translated into: “Most excellent Heavenly Father above, thank you kindly for your amazing love that is bestowed upon me this day.” I know that sounds a bit extreme, but trust me when I say that so many people try to formalize their prayers because they want to sound “holy.” But check out what Jesus himself told his disciples regarding this: And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. (Matthew 6:7-8 ESV)
