One of the leading causes of divorce (or any other disagreement or estrangement) is the lack of communication.
“You don’t talk to me anymore” is a chilling statement that should capture the attention of anyone to whom it is directed. The failure to talk with a spouse, children, parents or friends inevitably will lead to difficulty and pain.
That leads me to this question: What is prayer?
I am certain there is any number of deep, theological definitions. But today, I will share with you the simplest description of prayer I can offer. Prayer is talking to God.
Now, that is not the sum total of prayer. Prayer also must include listening to God. It involves repentance, confession, intercession and so many other aspects. But when it is reduced to its lowest common denominator, prayer is talking to God.
So, when is the last time you talked to God? I will share this with you. I talk to my dad every day. Have there been exceptions? Yes, but I have missed speaking to him daily fewer than 10 times in the past five years. We talk baseball, basketball and football. We talk about my sister (in a good way, just to catch up). We talk about my wife and sons.
And now, far more frequently, we talk (or more, I listen) as he tells me about his two great-grandbabies (my sister’s two grandchildren). There is a new story, at least, every week. With all of these topics and more, we just talk every day.
I do not plan to change that habit. My dad is in his late 70s and in great health, but I do not know how much longer he will be around. I am going to talk with him daily as long as the Lord allows me to do so.
Which begs the question: Why would I not seek to speak as frequently to my heavenly Father as I do my Earthly father? They both have been good to me. I love them both. In a sense, both have given me life and led me on the right path. I owe them both more than I can ever pay.
But ultimately, my life belongs to my heavenly Father. I need to speak to him frequently. The Bible says, “Pray without ceasing.” Paul was not telling us to pray out loud every moment we are awake. But he was reminding us of the need for constant and consistent prayer.
How often do you pray? When was the last time you prayed? May I encourage you to take the time to speak to God today? While you are at it, listen to him as well. He may have something special you need to hear. He is waiting to speak to you.
What a privilege it is to speak to the creator and sustainer of all that is. Take advantage of it today.