(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Daniel 9:4b O Lord, you are a great and awesome God!
A common question many followers of Jesus ask is, Can you teach me how to pray? It’s such a common question that Jesus’ own disciples approached him and asked if he could teach them how to pray! We may be accustomed to hearing prayer while in church, simple prayers before a meal, or other basic prayers with our children at bedtime. But something deep within many of us yearns for more. It’s as if we recognize that prayer has the potential to be a deeply intimate, personal, vulnerable conversation between God and His people.
Here are two things to consider: First, just because a prayer may seem simple doesn’t mean it isn’t powerful. A simple or basic prayer before a meal or at bedtime is still offered to our extremely powerful God. Just because it seems simple doesn’t mean it’s lacking.
Second, if you feel like your prayers can be more deeply intimate, personal, and vulnerable, then begin being more intimate, personal, and vulnerable with God. He is fully aware of everything going on within you and won’t ever be surprised by what you share with Him in prayer.
READING & PRAYERS:
DANIEL 9:1-19 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
PRAYER: Today, take the opportunity to write out – with pen and paper – your own prayer to God. Begin with the practices outlined below (silence, listening to God). But take the time to be real. To be personal. To be vulnerable. Let Him know all your feelings and struggles. Let Him know everything you may need to confess. Let Him know all the reasons you love Him.
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you pray today, spend an equal amount of time listening to God as you spend talking to God. Perhaps listen even longer. Consider making this a part of your daily practices so you can discern God’s voice more clearly.
Take a Step: This week, consider utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily to begin practicing being with God and resting in His presence. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices. See pauseapp.com for details.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
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