The importance of prayer

Prayer is one of the most important aspects to our growth in God, yet it is often the most difficult. Setting aside some time to speak to the creator of all things seems to get lost by the distractions of this world. It is not by accident that this happens, we have a clever adversary always trying to take us down. Even during our prayers we can be distracted and break our connection. With practice and persistence you can win this battle and grow in your faith. Here are 4 suggestions:

1. Time commitment. Think of the best time you have available on a daily basis. It may be when the children are napping or during a lunch break at work. Perhaps before bed or early in the morning. Whatever time you pick make sure you're prioritizing the prayer over everything else.

2. Private location. This may seem obvious but you would be surprised how often this is overlooked. Try to keep background sounds to a minimum. Turn off the television, phone and radio and try to be alone with you and God.

3. Directive prayer. Have a prayer list available and specific items attached to each. Commit to others offering of prayer for them. A commitment to a person will help drive you to follow through. Also keep track of what prayers have been answered in a way that you have prayed.

4. Simply stated. God is not interested in big elaborate words and flowery statements. One of my favorite prayers "...Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom." Luke 23:42 (was answered by Jesus) And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise. Luke 23:43. Speak from the heart because that is what God sees anyways.

Go and be well...God Bless.