The Privilege of Prayer

 “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”   Matthew 6:9

Have you considered what a privilege it is to pray to God?  Too often we see prayer as something that we “must” do, or as a task, we have on a to-do list.  Prayer is so much more!  It is a great privilege!

Consider that in many of the world’s religions, access to a deity something to be earned.  Some require a personal sacrifice of money, possession or hardship to get the “attention” of the deity. Some teach that they must go to a designated person or priest to get their prayers heard.  Still, others teach that you must go to a specific place such as a church or temple for the god to hear.  Some even require a sacrifice of blood for difficult requests!

Compare that to the privilege of Christian prayer.  We have unfettered access to God Almighty through Jesus Christ.  We can pray about anything, during any time, being anywhere and be heard by the Creator of the universe.  This is a radical doctrine when compared to false religions!  There are no hoops to jump through, no places to travel, no priest to consult.

When you were saved by faith in Jesus Christ, you were given a direct line to God.  No voicemail, call waiting or answering service.  Just God and you.  God wants to hear from you today.  He cares about the smallest details of your life. He wants to be the first person you speak to in the morning and the last person you speak to at night.  He desires that you be connected to Him throughout the day in a spirit of unceasing prayer.  Today, take your burdens to Him, and they will be lighter.  Ask Him for the needs of this day, and you will receive them.  Delight in the great privilege God has given you and pray!