I am trying to stay somewhat on topic, so I am jumping a little ahead:
07 November
URL:http://www.intouch.org/intouch/site.show_page?p_id=76096&p_devotional_date=11%2F07%2F2002
“The very breath of prayer sustains the Christian life.” —Carl F. H. Henry
Making the Most of Your Prayer Life
Ephesians 6:18-19
How would you assess your prayer life in its current state? Do you pray regularly? Are your prayers answered by God?
If you find that you are less than satisfied with your times of fellowship with God, do not become discouraged. Many believers struggle to maximize their prayer lives, but the Bible has many wonderful tips for improvement.
First, we must devote ourselves to prayer. (Col. 4:2-4) We are to pray without ceasing, and with the expectation of seeing results. Devoting ourselves to prayer means making time for listening to the Father as well as for talking to Him.
Second, we must “keep alert” in prayer (Eph. 6:18-19) , as today’s Scripture reading instructs us. This means we must be aware as we pray. What should we be aware of? The schemes of Satan. The Enemy wants to distract you from prayer. He wants your mind to drift and your heart to be troubled. If we expect these things, we can counteract them by focusing more intently on the task before us—communicating with God.
Finally, we should pray with a spirit of thanksgiving. (Col. 3:16-17) We should never forget to thank God for the goodness He has shown us, or for the goodness He will show us in the future. Thank Him for listening, for His faithfulness, and for the answer He will bring.
Begin incorporating these three elements into your prayer life as soon as possible, and wait in faith for God to honor your efforts.
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