September 25, 2010











How to Pray





By Michael Youssef, Ph.D.





The key to knowing how to pray the prayer that God answers is to cultivate our relationship with God. The more we know Him, the more we will be attuned to His will and desires.



An important part of prayer is our attitude. First, we should have an attitude of gratefulness. How often do you tell God how thankful you are? Instead of complaining, sulking, or grumbling, try expressing your gratitude to the Lord. Begin by thanking Him for His saving grace, His forgiveness, and His unfailing love.



Second, we should have an attitude of giving. God does not need anything that we could possibly give Him. However, the Bible makes it clear that we are to give to the Lord out of the blessings that He gives to us. The discipline of giving reminds us that all we have is from God. When you give, think about His blessings--never doubt His provision for you.



Finally, we should have an attitude of obedience. When we accept Christ as our Savior, we are making a commitment to live in obedience to God and to His Word. This is never easy. However, we have the power of Christ to strengthen and to help us overcome. Obedience means we must submit our will to God's. We bring glory and honor to the Lord when we resist temptation and obey His commandments.



Maybe it is easier for you to express your gratitude than for you to give. Or perhaps it is easier for you to obey God's Word than to tell Him thanks. Whatever the case, to pray as Jesus directed, we need to give, to be obedient, and to express our thankfulness. After all, we are children of almighty God--whose name is above all other names. He is holy, just, and attentive to our prayers.





Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything , present your requests to God (Philippians 4:6).

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