Conversational Prayer

Conversational Prayer

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

Colossians 4:2

THE BIBLE MAKES CLEAR that prayer is important. In Colossians 4, the apostle Paul encourages believers to “devote” themselves to prayer; in another epistle, he tells believers to pray continually (see 1 Thessalonians 5:17). We often take prayer for granted, but it’s really an amazing concept. We can talk directly to the Creator of the universe!

Yesterday I talked about praying silently together with your spouse. It’s the easiest way to get started. Today I want to encourage you to try conversational prayer. In this approach, the two of you take turns talking to God. You may each pray one or more times about the same subject. Then one of you changes the subject, and you repeat the process. It’s talking to God like you would talk to a friend.

The husband might pray, “Father, thank you for protecting me on the way home from work today.” The wife might then pray, “Yes, Father, I know there are many accidents each day, and I sometimes take your protection for granted. I also want to thank you for protecting the children.” The husband prays, “I agree, and I pray especially that you will protect our kids from those who would pull them away from their faith.” The wife prays, “Father, give us wisdom in how to teach our children about you.” And the conversation with God continues. It is an exciting way to pray with your spouse. Not only will it draw you closer to your heavenly Father, but it will draw you and your spouse closer together as you hear and pray about each other’s concerns.

Father God, I am amazed that I can talk to you at any time, and you hear me! What an incredible gift. Please help us to use this gift as a couple. I know that praying together will help us grow in our love for you and our love for each other. Give us the courage to get started and the discipline to continue.

Prayer