I often struggle with prayer. I find myself not knowing what to say or how to say it. To be honest, I overthink it. And because I struggle, I don't pray as often as I should. When I do pray, at times it feels rushed or like a canned, generic prayer.I often forget that prayer is just a conversation with my Father. It doesn't require bells and whistles or fancy words. It just requires my heart and my willingness to spend time with God.God knows prayer can be a struggle, so He gives us tips of what to do and what not to do. In Matthew 6:5, Jesus reminds us not to pray as hypocrites do, praying to be seen and noticed, and then in verse seven, He warns against throwing up empty, long winded prayers. Once He gets through the "don'ts," He gives us Matthew 6:9-13 as an example of how to pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." This model for prayer covers everything so simply: praise, repentance, supplication. If I can remember to pray with these three things as my primary focus, with time, I hope that prayer gets easier.Prayer is vital for our survival in this world. It keeps us connected to the Father. It builds intimacy with Him. Thessalonians 5:17 calls us to "Pray without ceasing." If that feels like a tall order, think of it this way: it is simply just including God in your everyday life—no matter how small. He wants to be involved. He just wants us. How beautiful it is that a God so great wants to hear from us, no matter what it is.{photo: @joyfullychristiana}
About the Author
Alexis Newlin
Alexis is a 34-year-old lover of Jesus, loose leaf tea, rollercoasters, and adventures. Originally from Marietta GA, Alexis now resides in Fresno, CA where she works as a recreation therapist at Valley Children's. Alexis enjoys teaching and encouraging kids that they can do and be anything they want, despite their disability.
When not at work, you can find Alexis outdoors enjoying a walk in her neighborhood, scoping out the newest food truck, hanging out with friends or planning her next trip. Her church, The Revival Center, and family mean the world to her. They have supported her through the loss of her mother and a cancer diagnosis.
Through her trials and triumphs, God has pushed her to share her faith and encourage others through her writing. Writing is something she is passionate about and it is a joy for her to share her walk with God and encourage others.
When not at work, you can find Alexis outdoors enjoying a walk in her neighborhood, scoping out the newest food truck, hanging out with friends or planning her next trip. Her church, The Revival Center, and family mean the world to her. They have supported her through the loss of her mother and a cancer diagnosis.