Well, why not? God is listening!

Many people pray, even if they wouldn't characterize themselves as 'Christians'. When problems arise or illness strikes, for many it is a last resort. But prayer is so much more than our last hope, and its not as complicated as you might think.

Prayer isn't complicated at all, its just having a conversation with God; talking about the ups and downs of life with the One who knows us the best. God wants to listen to our fears, doubts, worries, frustrations, hurts, and pains. He is eager to forgive us when we make a mistake. He patiently waits for us to ask Him to provide for us.

There are no rules when it comes to prayer, you don't need to use special words or pray at a particular time of the day. He is available 24 hours seven days a week. We don't even have to use our data or find a free wifi hotspot. We can pray anywhere, anytime, seated, standing, kneeling, lying; however you are comfortable. You can close your eyes or leave them open.

So if you have never said a prayer, where should you start?

Jesus helps us with this:

“The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God... This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. (Matt 6:7-13 MSG)

Jesus tells us to pray simply, like this:

“‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts (mistakes), as we also have forgiven our debtors (those who do wrong against us). And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’” (Matt 6: 9-13 NIV)

Sometimes we struggle to pray, our guilt and shame makes us want to hide from God. When this happens remember the grace of our loving Father allows us to come and enter his presence:

• To come boldly and freely with gladness of heart.

• To come before the throne of Christ, knowing you are clothed in the righteousness of God.

• To come before the throne, knowing you are invited to His saving ministry.

• To come before His throne knowing you are purchased by the saving blood of Jesus.

• To come before the throne of God, knowing you are anticipated by His sympathetic intercession.

Sometimes we can't pray, the words won't come, our mind will not settle. On occasions we just don't want to pray. This is when others can pray for us. If you would like someone to pray for you or with you, please use the Prayer Request form.