Prayer: Refreshing or Depressing?

"Whoever only speaks of God, but never or seldom to God, easily leases body and soul to idols.  The Christian thus places his whole future in jeopardy by a stunted prayer life."  -  Carl F.H. Henry

We've all experienced the power of prayer. Especially during those times in our lives when we called on the Lord in our secret place of prayer; when He not only listened, but answered us.

I don't have to tell you that there is something very special about entering into His presence alone, and meeting with Him there. There's nothing else like it, I guarantee you!

But, there are some people who complain that they don't enjoy prayer. It's not that they don't pray, even though they are tempted to give it up altogether. It's because they're not finding it pleasurable to do so.

As a matter of fact, to them, prayer has sadly become a drudgery. Instead of feeling refreshed after praying, they feel even more frustrated and exhausted than before. They are not getting anything out of prayer; no fellowship with God whatsoever.

I know it's difficult to believe, but there are Christians who complain that they must pray (or go through the motions) because it is their duty, or responsibility to do so. And, they feel that if they didn't, they would lose their credibility as a Christian through the scrutinizing eyes of others. Is that sad, or what?

My dear readers, prayer is a wonderful privilege! It is one of the most incredibly beautiful exercises of our lives. We should look at it as more necessary than food, and value it as one of Heaven's best luxuries. Through prayer, God has opened the door to His throne room, and invited us to enter into his presence with our appeals and requests (Hebrews 4:16).

God has promised to listen to us when we call upon Him (Jeremiah 33:3). He has also promised to answer our prayers when we pray according to His will (1 John 5:14-15). Needless to say, there are many privileges, and promises, associated with prayer.

Clearly, there's a special dynamic that comes into play when we seek the face of the Lord in prayer. It's no secret that something very special occurs when we pray. Have you had a one-on-one chat with God lately? How about today? He's waiting to hear from you.

Scripture: Psalm 34:17; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Proverbs 15:29; Matthew 7:7; Psalm 145:18-19  

Prayer: Dear Holy Father, I look forward to our time spent together; those quiet, peaceful moments that I selfishly set aside during my hectic days; when I can close my eyes and open my heart up to you. Then You smile at me; and I know that everything will be just fine. Amen

May God bless you,

Lynette