Connecting with God

Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.  –1 Chronicles 16:11 (NIV)
 
This week in foxhole my brother Carey brought a recent journal entry where he had logged some thoughts about prayer that were especially meaningful to him. His notes became the launch point of our discussion. I’ve adapted them to share here, along with some of our conversation.

Take your time. Savor each one. See which ones stir your imagination today.
 
Prayer is…

  • A demonstration of faith

  • Centering on Jesus

  • Synching with His perspective and teaching

  • First response to need and provision

  • An exercise in listening as much as it is speaking

We are blessed to have a God who cares about and provides for our needs, but He is not a cosmic vending machine. Communicating with Him is a two-way street, and the relationship deepens as we come into His presence and open ourselves to what He may say.
 
And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”  –1 Samuel 3:10 (ESV)
 
Prayer is…

  • Most effective when guided by His word

  • An escape to the Refuge (our Rock, our Horn of Strength, our Fortress, etc.)

  • An opportunity for honesty

  • A practice of humility and dependence

  • A time of soul-filling through fellowship, rather than being filled with knowledge or power

The conversation is not transactional. While there is value in building holy habits and we certainly reap a benefit from focusing on God, the most important aspect of prayer may be getting comfortable enough in the relationship that we just enjoy our time with Him.
 
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.  –Revelation 3:20 (ESV)
 
Prayer is…

  • A response to conviction through confession

  • An opportunity for daily surrender and fealty

  • An expression of love for God

  • Reflecting and responding in gratitude

  • The discipline of waiting on our Master

Picture a trusted attendant in the service of his king. He is close by, alert, anticipating what his master may need and ready to carry out whatever assignment his master may have. How would it be to have that posture before the King of kings?
 
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.  –Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

Scott Thompson