Thursday, 01 August 2024
“Now at this time Jesus went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to GOD. When day came, He called His disciples and selected twelve of them, whom He also named apostles (special messengers, personally chosen representatives): [Matt 10:2-4; Mark 3:16-19]” – Luke 6:12-13 AMP
I often think of what an amusing challenge it is to be both an adult and a Christian. As kids, we can’t wait to grow up so we can make our own decisions and do what we want. Then we come into the Kingdom of GOD and we must be like children and do as we are told and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. The problem is that we want to choose what we take to GOD in prayer. What we believe is logic and common sense, we resolve on our own with the backing of experience, and often, other people’s advice. And yet Jesus Christ our LORD and Saviour would spend sleepless nights in the presence of GOD just so He can make any and all decisions.
I also believe Jesus loved spending time in prayer because He was in the company of His Father, and sometimes just talking to family and loved ones, can be better than therapy. Personally, my father is by far my favourite person and we can spend hours talking about any and everything under the sun. And time flies when we are in each other’s company. So if we can spend time getting to know GOD, His mind and His heart, prayer would be our factory setting and most immediate response in any situation.
“But this is how you should pray. Go to a place in your house where you can be alone. You can shut the door and you can pray to GOD your Father. He is in that secret place. He sees what you do there. He will give you good things in return.” Matthew 6:6 EASY.
Prayer is a love language between us and the Father. It’s a moment of intimacy and depth and should be something we look forward to. Many times, we see prayer as a chore because we are not in a relationship with GOD, and as a result, we go around murmuring and complaining instead of coming to GOD in sincerity and with open hearts to lay our burdens before Him clearly and openly.
“If you remain in Me and My words remain in you [that is, if we are vitally united and My message lives in your heart], ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you.” John 15:7 AMP.
We cannot complain about GOD not answering prayers when we ourselves are so far removed from Him. He is not a remote-controlled entity which we send requests to and just expect an immediate return in request. He is a Father, and as such, everything should flow from a loving relationship with HIM. As a parent, I know how easy it is to do things for my kids because I love them and have a deep relationship with them, and I believe that is exactly what our Heavenly Father is looking for. For us to experience the beauty and fullness of His love while providing for all these other things we cry about, big and small.
We cannot complain about GOD not answering prayers when we ourselves are so far removed from Him.
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