IN PRAYER

Rather than show a picture of hands in supplication or one bowing in prayer, I chose the eyes closed. Shutting out the world.

So what to pray about? My goodness, I can't imagine not praying. About practically everything. A recent survey revealed Americans who pray daily numbers only 55%. The poor Czechs numbered something like 17%. So sad.

One of the highlights of our Tuesday morning Bible study on Men of Faith is the Prayer of Application at the end of each week long study. I'll share two of my prayers:

After the study of Peter: "Dear Lord, While I look at Peter and sometimes think, 'how could he?' I know I'm cut from the same cloth. That is, I need forgiveness for my self-confidence, and while I might not deny You directly, I'm afraid I do indirectly. Help me to follow Peter's love for You and like him, overcome my weakness. Amen"

After the study of James: "Dear God, Thank you for this study and showing James, the Just. What a great moniker. James tells us in no uncertain terms to walk the walk. I, too, Lord want my ear pierced with an awl to declare I am Yours. I know I'll fall short as I try for freedom to follow You. So maybe I'll need more than an ear-piercing; maybe a dog collar that keeps me 'in the yard' in Your kingdom. Forgive me as I know You will for my disobedience. Amen"

I'd feel so out of sorts. I'd feel such a loss if I couldn't pray. I mean, He's given us total accessibility to Him. Why wouldn't I pray?

If you're not one to pray, then why not? I'm certainly not what I'd call a prayer warrior. I certainly have heard many express better prayers than I. But praying, I think, is like singing. Just do it. It all sounds good to the Father.