By Renita Collins
One of the greatest tragedies that exists in our culture is prayerlessness. The most amazing invitation in the world is extended to us, and we turn down that invitation only to be consumed by other things that bring us anxiety and stress. Just think for a moment. Daily we have an UNLIMITED opportunity to sit with, talk with, rest with the almighty God, the Creator of the universe, the one who is more powerful than anything or anyone. But instead, we allow distractions like busyness or even sleepiness to creep in, and we squander this most valuable opportunity. Here are five insights to consider that can change how we view and approach our daily prayer experience.
- Our relationship with our earthly parents can have a positive or negative impact on our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
One who has been raised by a stern, strict father may be fearful in asking God anything, or one who grew up in a household where their needs were ignored may feel unworthy to seek answers from God. Feelings of fear and unworthiness prohibit a healthy dialogue with God. A proper understanding of God’s unconditional love and acceptance of us makes a world of difference in our approach to prayer.
- Sometimes we ask God for things in prayer, but we don’t receive because we are asking for the wrong things.
Instead of asking for millions of dollars, maybe the request to make is “Would you please help me to be a good steward over the hundreds or thousands that I currently have?” Or maybe instead of asking God to send a spouse, the request should be “Lord, make me presentable!” Whatever we ask must be in line with His plan for our growth and development in life.
- God is the supreme ruler of heaven and earth, but He is not controlling.
There are things that God will do, but then there are things that WE must do. Prayer often requires a corresponding action. Once God gives you a solution in prayer, it’s up to you to do what it takes to bring it to pass. God does not force your hand. You may be waiting on God to move, but He may be waiting on you to act!
- You are not an unwanted visitor, but a welcomed guest
Sometimes thieves will knock on a door in hopes that no one is home and they can gain unlawful entry. Even a door-to-door salesperson, though maybe legitimate, is often rejected as an unwanted visitor. But you are not an unwanted visitor when it comes to entering the presence of God through prayer. You are a welcomed guest!
- Prayer is a standing invitation to the most amazing event you could ever attend.
A standing invitation is extended to you to have a one-on-one experience with the Almighty God. Don’t discard your invitation. Don’t throw your invitation in your pile of “stuff.” It is your ticket to freedom and peace while you live here on earth.
Click HERE to listen to Renita’s Better Roads interview with President Randall A. Bach.
About the Author
Renita Collins currently serves as an executive pastor alongside her husband, Frank Collins Jr., who is the senior pastor of Breath of Life Christian Church in Harper Woods, Michigan. She is a mother of two and the author of two books, 31 Days of Focus and Persevere. The Collins family resides in St. Clair Shores, Michigan.
