Prayer has always been an important part of many people’s lives, but for some, it may seem mysterious or complicated. It is often associated with religious practices that can feel difficult or oppressive.
However, prayer is actually a wonderful thing that offers numerous benefits, and these benefits extend beyond just the individual who practices prayer. In this article, we will explore what prayer is and delve into some of the powerful benefits it provides as described in Scripture.
What is Prayer?
Prayer is a means of communication with God, and there are various ways to define it. At its core, prayer is simply talking to God. It is not about reciting specific words or phrases, but rather, it is about heartfelt communication.
5 Benefits of Prayer
Prayer offers several significant benefits that can greatly enhance our lives and our relationship with God. Let’s explore some of these benefits:
1. Prayer Changes Our Focus
In our daily lives, it is easy to become consumed by the circumstances and events happening around us, be they positive or negative. Prayer helps to redirect our attention away from earthly concerns and towards heavenly matters. By focusing on God in our prayers, we can gain a fresh perspective.
“Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth” – Colossians 3:2 (NLT)
2. Prayer Brings Us Closer to God
As prayer is a form of communication with God, it naturally strengthens our relationship with Him. It allows us to draw near to God and invites His presence into our lives. Through prayer, we can deepen our understanding of who God is and grow closer to Him.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” – James 4:8
3. Prayer Ushers Us into God’s Presence
In the past, people had to rely on priests or prophets to communicate with God on their behalf. However, when Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn, symbolizing the direct access we now have to God through prayer. We can approach God’s throne with confidence and receive His grace and mercy.
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” – Hebrews 4:16
4. Prayer is a Way to Help Others
Prayer is not just about our own needs and desires, but it is also an opportunity to intercede for others. We can pray with others or pray for them privately. Either way, our prayers can have a powerful impact on their lives, bringing healing and spiritual growth.
“Pray for one another, that you may be healed” – James 5:16
5. Prayer Helps Calm Us
The world we live in is filled with sources of anxiety and worry. However, prayer provides a way to find peace amidst the chaos. By giving our worries and cares to God in prayer, we can experience His peace that surpasses all understanding.
“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” – 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)
6. Prayer Brings About Change
The saying “prayer changes things” holds true. Sometimes, prayer brings about tangible changes in our circumstances, while other times, it transforms us from within. The power of prayer is evident in the examples of righteous individuals throughout Scripture, and it has the ability to bring transformation and renewal.
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” – James 4:16-18
As we can see, the benefits of prayer are vast and diverse. Prayer guides our path, prevents us from making wrong decisions, and helps us submit to God’s will. It allows us to receive forgiveness, love, and understanding, and helps us in loving our enemies. It brings peace and calm in the midst of life’s challenges. The list goes on and on.
A Prayer to Strengthen Your Prayer Life
Lord, I humbly come before You to honor and praise Your name. I ask for the strengthening of my prayer life. Lord, prompt me to pray more frequently, even in the midst of mundane tasks. Help me understand my identity in Christ, knowing that You always hear me. Help me to know Your Word so that I may pray it back to You. Guide me to write down my own prayer needs and the needs of others. Help me realize that You truly know me. In Jesus’ powerful name, Amen.
Remember, prayer is not about finding the perfect words to say or the precise way to pray. God knows your heart, even when you struggle to express yourself. Allow the Holy Spirit to intercede for you and be open to the guidance and comfort that prayer brings.