Seven Steps to Strengthen Our Prayer Life

My aunt, who lives in an assisted living facility, recently turned 92. Despite not having her cell phone, we managed to connect her with my mom on her birthday by calling the nurse’s station. It took a few attempts to get through the automated phone system, but eventually, we succeeded in getting them on the line for a brief chat.

Reflecting on the experience, I couldn’t help but think about how different it would be if prayer worked the same way. Fortunately, with prayer, the only obstacles are typically on our end, not on God’s. He is always ready to listen and respond when we call out to Him, as stated in Jeremiah 33:3.

To enhance our prayer lives, we need to prioritize prayer as a fundamental spiritual practice that brings us closer to God. Following Jesus’ example of starting the day with prayer (Mark 1:35) can guide us in making prayer a daily habit.

Eliminating distractions and removing barriers that hinder effective praying are crucial steps to strengthen our prayer life. These barriers may include prayerlessness, unconfessed sin, selfish motives, praying amiss, lack of faith, lack of persistence, not abiding in Christ, and uncertainty about what to pray for. Overcoming these barriers requires dedication and a conscious effort to deepen our relationship with God through prayer.

Incorporating scripture into our prayers, using prayer lists or journals, and committing to continual growth in prayer are additional strategies to enrich our prayer life. By praying specifically, expectantly, and with gratitude, we can experience the power of prayer and witness God’s faithfulness in answering our prayers.