Good times

I am a new woman. Seriously. A living testimony of the truth that the better our prayer life the deeper and more intimate our connection with God (and therefore the easier and more satisfying it is to walk as Jesus walked). Don't get me wrong - I have always prayed. I just haven't always prayed like this.

What is this?

Well, I'm so glad you asked. Let me tell you.

Part 1 - I use the bible. I read my bible before and during my prayer. I use Paul's prayers as examples. I let God's word open my heart to His heart and I simply go from there. This is not rocket science. Thousands (and millions) of Christians before me have done this (and continue to do this!). . . Why? Because it works!!

Part 2 - I move. I make it physical. If I'm confessing yuckiness that has come from my mouth I actually put my hands on my lips and confess my sin. Then, with my hands still on my lips, I beg God to transform me; to use these lips to glorify and honor Jesus. And on it goes. . .

The physical part helps me focus - and it makes it real. I really do sin, I really do need a Savior, and my body really can be either a vessel for God or. . . well, something not so great.

Those two things alone have totally transformed the way I pray over these last days. Both ideas came from this book I started, and honestly I am so grateful for the insights. When I first started reading I kinda thought it all seemed contrived and legalistic. You know, like, do these things and then you'll be a good Christian.

And maybe if you were to read it you'd feel that way too. . . But like I said at the start - contrived and legalistic or not - I am closer to God than I was 3 days ago. My prayers have more meaning and passion and purpose than ever before.

I feel alive through prayer. I feel ready to face the world once I've prayed. I know what God desires for me on a more tangible level after we've talked. Oh, may you find prayer to be such a lifeline as well!! Don't let your prayers be stale and meaningless - find a way to make them real and powerful!

And in a few weeks, remind me not to let mine grow stale and old too. . . because for some reason I am a 21st century Israelite; experiencing the presence and power of God and then all too quickly forgetting.

Maybe we should start the day by passionately praying that we would never forget. . . Pray for me - and know that I am praying for you!