3:278 – Intentional Prayer

#faithbites #faithjourney intentional #RedLetterChallenge #BeingChallenge

Setting

Back in college, I dated a Catholic girl for about a year. I had the pleasure of going to Mass and learning about her faith. One thing I noticed that struck me as odd was many people were crossing themselves unintentionally. Meaning it was more of a circle than a cross. It seemed to be a habit rather than an intentional action. In our church, we often say the Lord’s prayer. Similarly, many say the words from rote memory as a way to pray without being intentional. Of course, I don’t know what is in their heart, but I can assume.

Today was different. Our pastor did a “skit” based on the Lord’s prayer. He started saying it and was interrupted at each line by the voice of “God”. “God” made him question the meaning of each line. In effect, making him pray intentionally and know what he is saying. Prayer has power!

When you are praying, are you doing it to by rote or intentionally?

Scripture

• Mark 11:24 – Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
• James 5:15 – Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
• John 14:13-14 – Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.

Reflection

Prayer is extremely powerful. “What ever you asking in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” As Pastor Zach Zehnder said prayer must not work as we aren’t righteous. In fact, we are all made righteous through Christ!

Think about it this way. Have you ever wanted something but not had the money to buy it? Now, imagine that you had a blank check, unlimited money. How would that change your life?

We have an unlimited calling plan with God. Through him, we have an unlimited check to everything on earth. We just have to call and ask.

If we intentionally and consistently pray, we will have what we want and need. God will answer. This is where action comes in. God wasn’t passive, neither was Jesus nor should we be. Let’s take action and pray intentionally.

Not good at it? It’s ok. Like anything, it takes practice. Have something on your heart? Stop and pray. It’s that easier. It will become more natural over time.

Be intentional.

Challenge

Do you regularly pray? If so, next time, try a break from your standard prayer. Think of each word you use. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Remember, prayer has power. Each word brings with it emotion.

Do you not pray or is it irregularly? It’s ok. Just start. No need to have special words. Just tell God what’s on your heart. Then build a practice of prayer. It will become as natural as calling a friend.

Prayer

Hi God, we are working on praying intentionally. I, and all of us, need your help. We get into routines and sometimes our words lose importance or meaning. I don’t know what to say, but want you to know what is on my heart. Lord be with my friends and family who are struggling. Some have physical, mental, financial, spiritual, and emotional pain. I pray that you give them peace, healing, and comfort.

God, thank you for Pastor Zehnder. Watch over him and his family. Be with the folks at TheCross. Bless his ministry and his words. We thank you for him.

God, help us to seek you out first and pray openly and honestly. I don’t have the right words or the best words, but I know you know what’s in my heart. Jesus, help us to speak clearly and intentionally to you. I love you God and thank you for everything you have done. Help me to be better each day. Amen.