Traditions I do every new year include setting personal and professional goals, choosing a reading plan to read through the Bible that year, and planning what my new prayer journey will look like.
A recently published book, Audacious, by Heidi Vanderpan, defines prayer: In its simplest form, prayer is talking with God. Its more than a request, its how we have a relationship. This definition clarifies why I want to plan my prayer journey: to build my relationship with God.
Prayer is an essential part of Christian living. It not only brings us closer to God, it also builds our faith in his love for us. It reminds us that God is listening and will answer us when we pray. Prayer helps us focus on the good things God gives to us instead of the bad we may face in life.
From Audacious, Too many of us carry around a belief that God can do impossible things, but doesnt want to do them in our life as if the requests we have are too much or not enough: that the boldest prayers are reserved for specific categories or people. The challenge we face is believing that bold prayers are determined by what we ask for or the answer we anticipate.
Communicating with God may take several directions including giving thanks to God for who he is or petitioning God for needs.
Some prayers are for ones own needs; many are geared toward others needs. I pray for my adult children and my grandchildren daily, along with a list of missionaries.
I have a list of people needing healing that I pray over daily. Other prayers are for a variety of peoples needs, including employment, direction, or help with lifes struggles.
Maybe you do not know how or what to pray. There have been times when I am overwhelmed or when the need seems bigger than my feeble words that my prayer is a simple, just help, please. Maybe you are looking for a new approach to prayer for this year. An approach I have found useful is to pray Scripture.
To show thanks I turn to Psalm 118:1 and pray, Lord, I know You are good. Thank you for your love. I speak Psalm 25:4 to ask for guidance, Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Psalm 61:2-3 is a reminder of Gods protection, You are the rock that is higher than I. For you are my refuge, a strong tower against my enemies. Sometimes I will pray the exact Scripture and sometimes I will put it into my own wording, using the verse as a guide. For example, Psalm 27:1, Lord, because you are my light, my salvation, and my stronghold, I will not be afraid today.
I am ready to take the challenge to pray bold, audacious prayers; to see God do the impossible; to know he does it for people like us. I am hoping and praying you will join me.
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