It has taken me more than 50 years to discover and experience the wonder and transforming power of a conversational life of prayer with my Father in Heaven.
Having spoken of this previously, that prayer is not just me bringing a shopping list to God, but me enjoying guilt-free communion with the Almighty.
The encouragements and examples I have found in history and in the Bible have led me into this dynamic and life-giving way of praying.
People such as the humble monk, Brother Lawrence said: “There is not in the world the kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God.” And scriptures such as: “Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am … the Lord will guide you continually.” (See Isaiah 58:9, 11).
There are many other examples from Scripture, such as: Abraham and Moses who were called, by God, the “friends of God”. David sang about having “sweet communion” with the Lord. (See James 2:23; Exodus 31:18 and 33:17; and Psalm 17:15).
None of these examples could claim entitlement, or any way of being deserving of this amazing relationship.
Each of these human beings were as human and apt to fail as you or me. So if you, like me, feel unworthy, or even disqualified for this kind of awesomely unique friendship, we have many Biblical examples of frail, failing men, who were invited, by God into a conversational relationship with him.
Here are some essentials to bear in mind:
• Believe you can have conversations with God.
• Believe God is totally trustworthy.
• God is very keen to have this kind of relationship with you.
• Understand that you are qualified to have this kind of relationship with him, because of what he has done, not what you have done, or failed to do. His Son died a painful death to pave the way for you to be able to have this kind of intimate relationship with him.
• Expect him to talk to you. Understand what that means and how he will communicate with you. (See future editions for this discussion.)
• Take time to have this kind of quality relationship.
” … anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him.”
(Hebrews 11:6 – The Message)
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