How Do I Pray?

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. — James 5:16

Prayer is communication with God. How important is it? It is as important to your spiritual life as breathing is to your physical life. While breathing is an involuntary process, prayer is something you must put effort into. Satan will try to keep you from praying. He’ll make you tired, he’ll distract you, and he’ll tell you it isn’t that necessary. But it is necessary!

So how do you go about talking to God? Whenever possible, pray out loud. This helps you avoid distractions and reminds you that you are conversing with a real individual. Be respectful, but don’t be afraid to unburden your deepest feelings. Thank Him for what He has done in your life. Ask Him to lead you and help you listen to what He has to say. Let Him know that in making your requests, you want only His perfect will. Pray for those you know who need salvation or have other pressing needs. Again, praise God for answering prayer and fulfilling His Word.

As you grow in the Lord, you will see the benefit of staying in close contact with Him throughout your day. You will realize that even though you cannot see or hear Him with your physical senses, He is just as real as anyone you’ve ever known. And you will see that He answers your prayers in miraculous ways!

See also: Matthew 6:5-13; John 15:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:17,18; 1 John 5:14,15