Basic Guidance in Prayer

1.      Make time to give Jesus our undivided attention.

a.      I know we can and should pray and be prayerful as we go throughout our day. However, the reason it is so important to dedicate time to Jesus is that our time is all we really have and how we spend that time expresses our values and intentions. Therefore, giving Jesus our time without external distractions is a way of prioritizing Jesus and our relationship with him. In doing this we need to realize that he knows we have daily chores and responsibilities which is why we need an achievable and sustainable approach. It is best to start with too little time allocated than too much and fail. I recommend 5-10 minutes 4-7 days a week. Make sure to have several weeks of meeting this allotment of time before adding more time. It is generally helpful to find a regular place and time for our time with Jesus.

2.      Be honest with Jesus.

a.      Sometimes we are afraid Jesus doesn’t want to spend time with us just as we as we are. We figure it is like going on a job interview where we present “our best selves”. Other times we think he will be no longer love us if we are angry with him or have a ton of doubts. He wants us to be honest with him and ourselves because that is the only way an authentic relationship can grow and flourish. He knows all our sinful ways which is why he was crucified for us. We have nothing to fear. When we are most vulnerable is when we experience his deepest compassion, forgiveness and love.

3.      Keep most of your prayer life private.

a.      There are times when it is helpful for your growth in prayer to share with a spiritual director, mentor or coach. Also, sometimes it is helpful for a brother or sister to share your prayer life.

4.       Ask Jesus to help.     

 

a.      Prayer is something we learn so it is normal and necessary to ask Jesus for help. He wants to offer us guidance and help because he desires an ever-deepening relationship with you and he is the shepherd of your soul. Do not use adjectives to describe your prayer life. Too often we hear people say they are bad at prayer because someone is more eloquent in a prayer group. I have yet to find in scripture where eloquence was critical for someone to have a deep prayer life. I find it can be a stumbling block because sometimes it can lead a person to think they are “good” at prayer. When Jesus’ disciples asked for help, he told them to prayer what is now known as the Lord’s Prayer. (Luke 11:1-4) Simply go to your prayer place and say “hi” to Jesus and ask him to help you to pray. Share with him anything you want to and then be quiet for a bit then close saying the Lord’s prayer slowly. If he instructs you in a different way to pray then follow that pattern.