Prayer is Life Changing

I don't know about you, but at times in my own life, I forget to pray first before doing anything else, when things go awry. When negative, difficult or challenging things start to happen in my life, I may pace, begin to worry, knit, sew, call a friend, or run an errand, anything to distract myself rather than sit quietly and prayerfully ask for God's help in the name of Jesus Christ.

align="center" style="text-align: left;">LOS ANGELES, CA - Perhaps I have in the past been easily distracted from prayer, but in recent years, I have learned a new perspective and way to deal with the rigors of daily life. I have learned that there are some simple things that I can do, that can make any circumstance more manageable, through prayer. In fact, through reading and studying the Bible, I have discovered a Systematic Scriptural Approach to dealing prayerfully with the ups and downs of daily life. This 5 point system has changed my life in all the best ways, and I am confident it could do the same for you!

1)  Pray Without Ceasing

The Holy Bible tells us to, 'Pray without ceasing' for whatever you need. [I Thessalonians 5:17] In that way, we are able to stay closely connected to God in every circumstance. Some people are so busy, they must relegate prayer to the morning or the evening. Others pray when outside in the beauty of nature, yet others solely pray in times of desperation or when in Church. This Scriptural prescription suggests we need to make God an ever present part of our day, rather than an afterthought. When we pray and get into His Word unceasingly, we are focused on the Lord throughout the day, and it is helpful in growing in gratitude to God for our abundant blessings.

'Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.' I Thessalonians 5:16-1

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2) Read the Bible Daily

When you read the Bible daily, you soon find that what was written some 2000 years ago is truly relevant and important today in daily life. One of the mysteries of the Bible is the understanding that it is a tremendous vehicle to hear the Word of God in the here and now. In actuality, I often experience God speaking to me in a sort of dialogue through Scripture. I like to pray to God through Jesus Christ, then read my Bible and the answers to my prayers often leap off the page. Many report that reading the Bible makes them feel like God is talking directly to them... And He is as Scripture has the potential to be life-changing... 

3)  Where Two or More are Gathered

In the Bible in the New Testament, Jesus tells us, 'Where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.' [Matthew 18:20] This Bible promise actually lets us know that uniting in prayer with others is a powerful way to approach prayer. Whether in person, or even via the phone, it is possible to pray together with others fervently, with the understanding that Jesus is with you, He is truly present in your time of need.

4)  In The Name of Jesus

Though prayer need not be comprised of eloquent speech, I have found that praying to God, in the name of Jesus, is vitally essential. For the Bible tells us in Colossians 3:17, 'Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.' That is, we are to pray fervently to God, in the name of Jesus Christ, with petitions, praise and thanksgiving

5)  Believe: I can do all this through 'Jesus' who gives me strength.

When you pray through Jesus Christ, you begin to grow in a life-changing, personal relationship with Him. You come to the realization that you are never alone, despite how you may feel, and that He is there for you to help you at every turn simply for the asking. You are able to grow in contentment in your daily life, and with the quiet knowing that Jesus Christ is at the helm, in control of your life, as you place it squarely in His loving hands.

'For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.                                                       I can do all this through [Jesus] who gives me strength.'                                                                        Philippians 4:11-13

6)  Time to Celebrate: The Joy of the Lord IS my Strength!

This Scripture is tantamount to Nehemiah 8:10: "The Joy of the Lord IS my Strength!" It is pure joy knowing that your strength is from the Lord. Even and especially in times of weakness, this truth stands. Alone, we can do nothing. We are nothing. We have nothing. The Lord is everything to me. Omnipotent Friend, Almighty, Healer, Provider, Comforter, Protector, Savior and Lord. With Him at our side, we are able to pray with great confidence, as Scripture tells us we can move mountains with faith the size of a mustard seed!

'Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'  [Matthew 17:20]

7) Pray the Rosary
 
As Christian Catholics, we have a treasure trove of time tested prayers to choose from at our disposal. Specifically, praying the holy Rosary is a deeply powerful way to pray to God through Jesus, and ask for Mary's intercession. This form of prayer may be done alone or with others, and has been credited with many miracles.

Yes, there is unlimited power in prayer as it has the capacity to change things for the better. Whether you are a new pray-er or a lifelong prayer, following these 7 easy steps will bring you closer to The Lord, and prepare you to serve Him as a fervent prayer warrior, an evangelist, if you will, as it enhances your faith life and promotes a strong and lasting personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

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