Life as a Christian Woman

Matthew 18:19-20 gives us the word of Jesus Christ: Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. We are also told to pray without ceasing (1Th 5:17).

So how does one pray? Is there a right way and wrong way? Are there guidelines for prayer? We find the answers in the Bible. Jesus gave us an example in the very simple verse we learn as children, The Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9-13). If you look at each line of his words, you find a pattern for offering a sincere exhortation to God.

Our Father, which art in Heaven - Begin by acknowledging God as your Father, provider of all needs and above every earthly thing.

Hallowed be thy name - How old were you when you realized God’s name isn’t Howard? The word “hallowed” means holy or sacred. Tell God He is sacred in your life.

Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven - It is okay to express the desires of your heart to God, but your foremost desire should be His will.

Give us this day our daily bread - God provides everything you need if you just trust in him.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. - Forgiveness is open to all people. Ask forgiveness not only for yourself, but also for those who may have wronged you.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. - Whatever temptations you may be facing in your life, God can lead you out of them. His supremecy, power, and glory are enough for all time.

Amen. - The word “amen” means “truly.” Saying amen at the end of a prayer expresses your sincerity and belief in the prayer.

Sometimes developing a prayer life can be daunting for a new Christian. If you are new to prayer, the goal is really just to commune with God. Tell him what is on your heart. Don’t worry about saying the wrong thing or wonder if something is too trivial to pray about. God already knows your every thought. Prayer simply expresses your desire to God for him to be a part of those thoughts, and to lead your life according to his will. The guidelines offered in the Lord’s Prayer serve as a reminder of those things we should pray for, no matter the circumstance. The more you pray, the more natural it will be. Soon, you will be praying without ceasing and find a whole new closeness to God.

If you would like help with your prayer life, or have a prayer request, please let me know by leaving a comment or using the contact link.

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