As covered in the previous post, there are different ways to spend time with GOD. One of them is spending time in prayer before GOD.
While there are certain physical gestures/positions associated with prayer (clasped hands, bowed head, etc.), these are just outward expressions of what should be in our hearts when we come before the throne of GOD:
Bowing the head is a sign of humility before our Sovereign King (as is getting on our knees, bowing down to the ground, etc.).
Clasping/raising of the hands is a symbol of supplication (making a request) of the sovereign Lord of all creation.
Closing the eyes is a way to (literally and figuratively) shut out all distractions around us, so that our attention may be entirely focused on GOD.
In one sense, prayer is a call to GOD for help; the only way that we can successfully battle sin and experience victory in our lives is by the strength and power of GOD moving in/through us.
“I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth – praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the LORD.” Psalm 40:1-2
“‘When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the LORD; and my prayer went up to You, into Your holy temple.’” Jonah 2:7
Prayer is more than just sending a message to GOD, however; it is an essential part of daily coming to Him for strength and guidance. Whether giving thanks for a meal, seeking guidance for a decision, or lifting up someone else, every prayer is a chance to speak to (and, just as important, hear from) GOD.
In the Gospels, Jesus gave us a model for prayer when His disciples asked Him to teach them:
“And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly….In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen” Matthew 6:5-6, 9-13
In spiritual warfare, an essential quality is perseverance; thus, continual prayer is mentioned as a discipline that goes hand-in-hand with the whole Armor of GOD:
“And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of GOD; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints –“ Ephesians 6:17-18
Let us be wise, then, when and how we pray – it is something that we should never take lightly. After all, the primary purpose for which Jesus died and rose again was not only that we may be cleansed of sin, but also that we might (once again) have complete fellowship with GOD:
“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” Romans 8:15
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16