A Heart Committed to Prayer - Part 2

Let's continue our look at the blessings of prayer in Chapter 3 of A Woman After God's Own Heart:

Blessing #4: Improved Relationships

You cannot think about yourself and others at the same time. As we settle our personal needs with God in prayer, we can then rise up and focus all our attention outward -- away from self and on to others.

You cannot hate the person you are praying for. God changes our hearts as we pray for our enemies. Matthew 5:44, "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you."

You cannot neglect the person you are praying for. As we invest ourselves in prayer for other people, we find ourselves wonderfully involved in their lives.

Blessing #5: Contentment

Day after day, we must place our needs in God's hands, letting Him meet those needs. Psalm 84:11, "For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly."

Blessing #6: God-Confidence

As the Holy Spirit works in us, God-confidence comes upon us. As we pray and when we make choices that honor God, the Holy Spirit fills us with His power for ministry. The result of His filling is that we are confidently and effectively able to share His love and joy.

Blessing #7: The Ministry of Prayer

Edith Schaeffer stated, "Interceding for other people makes a difference in the history of other people's lives." This means that each of us can actually have a role in the mysterious ways of God.

It is important for each of us to realize that prayer is a ministry, and understanding this fact can end our feelings of uselessness and ineffectiveness.

Yes, But How?

How can we cultivate a heart of prayer and enjoy the blessings that accompany a life of committed and devoted prayer? Here are some quick thoughts.

Start a prayer log to record prayer and answers to prayer.

Set aside some time each day to linger with the Lord in prayer. Remember that something is better than nothing.

Pray always and in all places, enjoying God's presence with you wherever you go.

Pray faithfully for others -- including your enemies.

Take seriously the powerful privilege of the ministry of prayer.