Godly men know the significance of prayer in their daily lives. Throughout history, they showed it and lived it. They viewed prayer as the main course of their lives. Prayer changed their lives in order to stand for the ministry of the Word of God. Then, prayer became the key substance for transforming the world and lives of other people. People like Martin Luther, John Wesley, David Brainerd, and others had pure mind-set to set aside several hours for prayer. They knew that they would not be able to serve God if they did not spend time in prayer. Only prayer can boost up one’s passion to serve God.
Richard Foster commented on those godly people who lived their lives by prayer and faith. Their prayer life did not develop on its own but cultivated it as other habits of life. They spent time in prayer daily. Later, prayer became their everyday activity. They made prayer their lives. There is no shortcut to be a man of prayer in short period of time. It is an extensive process that takes a lengthy course to form a solid habit of praying.
Through the lives of these praying people like William Carey, George Fox, Adoniram Judson, John Hyde and few others, I learned the significance of prayer. They were not born with prayer; instead they gave birth to prayer in their lives. Indeed, their prayer lives might have started with a short but consistent prayer. Subsequently, prayer became the part of their daily lives later on.
I do not agree with using the phrase “if it be thy will” during prayer. It is an uncertain prayer. It reveals a man’s doubt on his prayer whether God would answer his prayer or not. God never answers doubtful prayer. When people are not certain that God is going to answer their prayers, they use this kind of phrases. If we have sought God’s guidance for his certainty and will, we would not say that “if God wills.” Once we are confirmed of his will, we would say that God’s will be done rather than ours. Our prayer should advance the Kingdom of God.
Specific Suggestion
When I reflect on the passage of Luke 6:27-29, it seems impossible for my human heart to love my enemies who have done harm to me. I cannot forgive them instead of cursing them. I am told to bless and pray for them who mistreated me. The Bible even teaches to turn another cheek for those who slap me once. Moreover, the Bible says that I should give my tunic too if someone takes my cloak. It sounds very ridiculous, but it is possible too if we submit ourselves to God in prayer. Generally, a human heart cannot love and forgive his enemies, but when we pray to God to change our hearts, it becomes possible to love and forgive our enemies.
Reflection Points for Journal Entries
The practice of prayer has been leading me to establish firm relationship with God. Prayer helps me to come to God as I am and confess my sins. It convicts of my wickedness and weakness. At the same time, it shows me how much I am blessed and loved by God. It reveals the panoramic scenes of God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness for my transgressions and grave sins. Prayer breaks down my stone-cold and proud heart. This is how I come to know that how much I need God’s guidance and help.
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