The Meaning of Prayer

"Morning after morning, He wakes me up to hear, to listen like a disciple." - Isaiah 50:4

What is prayer to you? To many people, it is talking to God. But when Jesus gives us the "Our Father," He clearly tells us not to use many words to pray because our Father in Heaven already knows what we want and need…and, this isn't the only time that Jesus tells us that God knows what we want/ need before we even ask, He tells us this throughout the gospels.

So, then, what is prayer? Why do we pray? Even when we're happy and we all have what we want, why do we still have a need for prayer? Simply, it is because we feel a deeper need to be better people, and we know that God helps get us to that point. Therefore, prayer is actually our listening to God and yearning for His influence in our lives. A couple of months ago, I was praying, and I usually have everything I ask for all mapped out, but on this night, I felt as if a voice told me, "Audrey, don't use words, I already know. Just be in my presence." My prayer was made more effective by just listening and being with God on my private time. And the prophet Isaiah had this same experience with God. God would wake him up early to listen, to see what His will was for Isaiah.

Today, as you go and find your time to talk to God, please reflect on this passage. God knows what you want, what you need, and even what you'll want and need 10 years from now, instead, let your prayer time be to listen and be surrounded by His presence.

Today's Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I only think about myself and what I want You to do for me. Other times I can't listen to You because I don't make time or I can't sit still, or I'll even let doubts and distractions get to me. But despite this, I know You want to talk to me and I want to listen. Please, take this time to open my ears and make sure I listen. In Your Name we pray, amen.