Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 & 1 John 4:7-12
Often, when we pray, we focus our thoughts on getting answers to our prayers. We become so concerned with getting what we ask for that we overlook the gifts God gives just because we took the time to talk to Him.
When we take time to pray – to talk with God – four amazing things happen.
First, we begin to think about God. In order to talk to God, God and His ways have to be in our minds. God begins to fill our minds.
Second, we begin to love God. The thought that God is there and that He cares about us takes root in our minds. The idea that the All-Powerful God who created the universe is willing to listen to our needs and help resolve our concerns draws to Him. We begin to recognize the truth of 1 John 4:9, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” God loved us first, therefore, when we talk with Him, we begin to return His love.
Third, we begin to have hope and expect God to answer us. When we first approach God with our needs and desires, it may be out of desperation. It may feel as if praying is a last resort. As we begin talking to God, hope is kindled. We begin to believe that God can and will answer. In fact, we expect God to answer.
Finally, we begin to be thankful to God. Our eyes are opened to the good things God has done for us in the past. A desire to show our gratitude to God for those blessings and for all future blessings begins to grow in our hearts.
I hope you will take time each day to talk with God. When you do, you will grow amazingly close to Him!
“Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Prayer: Heavenly Father, In Jesus’ name. Amen.