PRAYERFUL ATTITUDE

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV

For years I struggled with cultivating an attitude of prayer.

We may not know how to pray, what to say, or when to pray. Additionally, something else always vies for our attention––cell phones, tv, family, and responsibilities––and gets in the way of time with the Lord.

LEARNING FROM GRANDMA

My grandmother once told me one of her friends said, “Rose, I pray every minute, every hour, every day.” And with laughter in her eyes, my grandmother said, “You know she was lying.” But in 1 Thessalonians, Paul instructs us to “pray without ceasing.” If it is an impossible task, why would God implore us to do it?

Because it’s not impossible; it is a choice. I am learning that this instruction is less about the task of prayer and more about having an attitude of prayer. So how do we cultivate an attitude of prayer?

HOW TO’S

First, we must decide to depend on God totally, steadfastly, and wholeheartedly for all of our needs. When we realize that all our needs––physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial––are needs that God can and will provide, our worries, anxieties, and fears will melt away.

And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.

~ Luke 18:1 ESV

MAINTAINING FOCUS

Perhaps having a continual attitude of prayer looks like a sea captain piloting his ship through rocky waves. His eyes are ever fixed on the lighthouse shining in the distance. As we keep the eyes of our hearts focused on the Lord in the middle of our journey––whether the waves are calm or tumultuous––we will find God is the light to guide our way. 

Regardless of the task at hand, our strength, hope, joy, and peace are found by relying on our Father’s care. Prayer is simply taking hold of this promise. And when we have an attitude of continual prayer, praise and thanksgiving will follow, no matter the circumstance.

What are ways you can cultivate prayer in your daily life?

Heavenly Father, help me to continually keep my mind and heart on You.  With my whole heart, I will seek to depend on You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2023: Cultivating an Attitude of Prayer: Rosann Coulon: All Rights Reserved