The Piano Lesson - Practice, Practice, Practice

The Piano Lesson - Practice, Practice, Practice

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT? I’m not sure about that, but daily practice was essential to learning to play the piano. As I matured, I sometimes approached my practice sessions with very different objectives. But one thing was for sure; the more I practiced, the better I got at practicing!

Daily prayer is as essential to growing spiritually as daily practice is to learning to play an instrument. And just as you might have different objectives and approaches when practicing, so might you have them in prayer. Let me explain—but first, let’s remember to whom we’re praying.

I played the same piano almost every day of my life for twenty years. The name etched over middle C never changed; it was perfectly clear that I was playing a Bradbury baby grand. But when it comes to prayer, some folks seem confused as to whom they’re praying to. God is God. Not the Good Fairy, Santa Claus, or a Falling Star. When you’re communing, realize that you’re speaking directly to the almighty Creator. If that doesn’t humble you, I don’t know what will.

Once you get it clear who the Lord is, the next thing you’ll want to clarify is the objective of your prayer each day.

At times I approached my piano with one goal and one goal only: to relish the music and allow the melody to wash over me. Pure joy—that was my only objective for my practice time.

So also should you set aside a time just to worship God for who he is. That’s right—no requests—pure praise. Think of it like one of the times one of your kids runs in to say, “Mom, you’re the best mom in the world” without adding, “Can I have twenty dollars?” Just take time to acknowledge the Designer of heaven and earth—and your Creator—not for what he can do for you but for who he is to you.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. (2 Corinthians 1:3)

Praise God from whom all blessings flow.