Convinced that one of the best and fastest ways to draw closer to God, to know Him heart to heart, is through prayer, I determined to change the course of my prayer life. I want to evaluate my current prayer life, find where I could make improvements, scriptural changes, and implement those changes.
Doing so via this blog will not only help me to stay motivated, but it will provide an accountability factor. Regardless of the state of your prayer life, I’m sure that there is room for improvement. So I issue this challenge: join me as I seek greater intimacy with God through prayer. I encourage you to comment on your experiences and interact with me and the others who read these posts.
My Starting Point
My meager prayer life is probably not too far off of the average. I do pray, but my prayer life is shallow and inconsistent. Sometimes I recognize God’s blessings and remember to thank Him; sometimes I’m too focused on myself to acknowledge His direct intervention in my life.
I don’t have a regular prayer time. I am consistent with my Bible reading, but I have failed to prioritize prayer in my faith journey.
When people ask me to pray for them I do, but I seldom take the time to figure out the best way; I’ll shoot off a quick prayer that God will work in their situation, that He will bless them. And I will do the same whenever God brings them to my remembrance. But it is usually the same weak prayer that I offered initially. If they mentioned specifically what they need from God, I will pray specifically for that need. But to be honest, I don’t feel as though my prayers are accomplishing anything.
What To Expect
On Monday of each week I will set a goal for the week. So we should have four or five primary goals throughout this challenge. Additionally, I will post devotional content related to each goal on the remaining four weekdays and/or sub-challenges. I may extend the challenge after the 30 days as the Lord leads.
Week 1
They say that the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. I wouldn’t dream of calling you or myself to the imperative of 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “pray without ceasing” (ESV), in the first week, or even the fifth one! That is a lifetime goal. But at this stage we need to set reasonable and reachable goals.
If you already have a daily prayer time, that’s fantastic! I’d like to challenge you to extend your prayer time by five minutes.
If you haven’t made a commitment to a daily time of prayer, I’d like you to commit to five minutes of prayer per day. Ideally, you should set aside this time like a daily appointment. Write it on your calendar; set a reminder on your phone. When you’re serious about getting to know someone you plan your time together. God deserves the same commitment.
Whichever category fits you, use this time to express to God your desire to know Him more. Ask Him to show you ways in which you can grow in faith and love. Ask Him to teach you to hear His voice. And listen!
Thanks for joining me on this journey; and blessings on your day!
Skipping Stones 
Leave a Reply