Prayer Is Important
We’re now in our second week of Lent following ‘Make Space For What Matters’ Bible Plan. Prayer is important but I used to think it was something that had to be done in a certain way; Lord’s Prayer, hands together, quietly. But I have since grown in my faith and know that actually prayer is just a conversation with God. Now, I chat to Him all the time. But I don’t just chat. A conversation goes both ways, right? I also listen…again, that’s something I have only recently learnt about and started practicing.
And that’s the thing, it takes practice. 5 years ago would I ever think I’d be happy praying out loud with others, for others whether they are friends or strangers? No, but the more I did it (mainly thanks to Urbain), the more comfortable I got, the more in tune I got to what He’s saying to me. It’s gotten to the point now that even on my way to work on a Tuesday, matcha in hand, I prayer walk; praying for the estate and borough.
So give it a try. Lent is the perfect time to draw closer to Him, He’s waiting with open arms and baited breath. Prayer is important because it connects us with God, strengthens our faith, and aligns our hearts with His will. Jesus Himself prayed constantly; seeking the Father’s guidance, drawing strength, and interceding for others. As His disciples, we are called to follow His example, making prayer an important part of our daily lives. Just as Jesus depended on prayer, we too should turn to God and be dependent on Him in every season, knowing He listens, speaks, and moves through our prayers.
As Lent is a season to reflect and repent, you could take some time to ask Him to reveal anything in you that isn’t from Him – anything you have to say sorry for. Use the four Rs if in doubt:
- Recognise what is wrong and be as specific as you can#
- Repent of what you’ve done wrong
- Receive forgiveness – often a step that is missed, but take time to thank the Lord for His mercy and accept it
- Replace that behaviour/action/thought – what is the opposite way to act
Give it a try and see if you can carve out more time with Him.
Take Action: If you’re not sure what to pray about, try praying through the Lord’s Prayer and then make it your own.
Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.
May your Kingdom come soon.
May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins,
as we have forgiven those who sin against us.
And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.
Matthew 6:9-13 NLT
This is very helpful. When thinking of the Replacement step, rather than our thinking what is the opposite we like to ask God what is the truth or blessing He wants us to walk in, in place of what we have repented.