
“Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” Psalm 34:8
I found that as I began to pray, at first for short ...
A good way to start developing the habit of prayer is to:
- Establish a time of daily prayer that is compatible with your lifestyle;
- Choose a place of prayer, free of interruptions;
- Follow a prayer plan or pattern as a guideline when necessary.
Although some people don’t like using Prayer Guides, I find them to be very helpful, not only as we’re learning but also at times when we’re burdened, weary, or even wondering how to begin.
In “The Hour That ChangesThe World”, Dick Eastman gives his plan for an hour of guided prayer which you may find helpful. Notice that it begins and ends with Praise.
1. PRAISE Recognize God’s nature (Psalm 63:3)
2. WAITING Silent Soul Surrender (Psalm 46:10)
3. CONFESSION Temple Cleansing (Psalm 139:23)
4. SCRIPTURE Word Enriched Prayer (Jeremiah 23:29)
5. WATCHING Develop Holy Alertness (Colossians 4:2)
6. INTERCESSION Remember The World (1 Timothy 2:1&2)
7. PETITION Share Personal Needs (Matthew 7:7)
8. THANKSGIVING Confess My Blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
9. SINGING Worship In Song (Psalm 100:2)
10. MEDITATION Ponder Spiritual Themes (Joshua 1:8)
11. LISTENING Receive Spiritual Instruction (Ecclesiastes 5:2)
12. PRAISE Recognize God’s Nature (Psalm 52:9)
Remember, this is only a guide because our prayer time will vary as we are led by the Holy Spirit, but it is a wonderful foundation.
It is through the discipline of setting aside time and giving it priority in our lives that we develop the habit of prayer. This ultimately leads to more prayer as our hunger grows and we begin to see results and changes as God moves more mightily in our lives because of our desire and devotion to spend time with Him! He is faithful!
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2