Intimacy through Pray without Ceasing! (Lunchtime for 12/30/09)

1 Thessalonians 5:17 & Ephesians 6:18 encourages us to pray without ceasing. But, what does it mean to pray without ceasing?  Does it mean that we should constantly babble to God and never shut-up?  Or, does it mean that we should become monks and take vows of silence?  Neither!  Prayer cannot be confined to mere words or silence, but rather a reflection of our heart seeking out God in a relationship.  Certainly, listening and sharing our hearts with God are the primary tools of prayer, but prayer itself is more an act of the heart.  Constant prayer, or prayer without ceasing is both an act of humility that recognizes God’s sovereignty and one of intimacy where we give our most intimate selves over to God.  In this aspect, it is fair to say that our prayer life will reflect our intimacy level with God.  If our prayer life is shallow and superficial so will our relationship with God.  For example, young children will primarily go to their parents to meet their own needs and comfort, yet as they mature the children begin to see their parents as individuals with beauty, wisdom and flaws. With God, however, there are no flaws but only infinite beauty, wisdom, and holiness.  As we draw closer to God in a more intimate relationship when begin to approach God more as God and not as our genie god. We then begin to let allow God not only access, but freedom to lead us and guide us according to His will.  It is in these moments that we shall receive anything that we ask for.  For it is according to His will.  So, whether you are on your knees in silence, or in a group prayer, or walking on the beach, be in constant prayer with God, which is an act of constant communion with God through a surrendered life.  God bless,
Pastor Joe