Just pour it out...

Pray without ceasing.

  I feel sure that the majority, if not all of my readers have heard this verse - more than once. But what does it mean?

It's three words.

Nothing complicated in understanding the English.

  Yet putting it into action is extremely challenging, requiring the Christian to completely surrender emotion, thoughts, words, and actions to the will of God.

  Last night I was reminded once again of what a sweet release prayer is. Things were not going how I thought they should be, and the Lord was also convicting me of a wrong attitude. To be perfectly blunt, I was miserable. I needed to pray, knew there was no way I could get around it, yet something was holding me back. Within the span of a few minutes, I broke down and began to just ramble. Pouring my heart out to my Lord and Savior, the burdens began to slide off and I felt free and at peace. Praising Him seemed the only thing to do!

  Now, there is nothing in between my God and I, and I feel completely assured of praying without ceasing! God cares about every aspect of my life, so I have nothing to worry about.  

Having therefore, brethren,boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say , his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised ;) (Hebrews 10:19-23) 

  Having BOLDNESS to enter into the holiest...this is the Christian's position in Christ! According to the notes in my Bible, the word boldness can also be translated freedom. Freedom to go straight to the throne of God and just pour out our hearts. What cause does the Christian have to worry with unlimited access to the throne of the King of Kings? I am filled with such amazement, joy, and praise towards Him, just simply sitting here typing these words. 

  However, prayer is not at all one-sided. Far from it, my friend. Yes, God talks to us. YES, we need to listen. Often, when I need an answer about something, I'll simply close my Bible, ask God for wisdom, let it fall open, and carefully read both pages. If God doesn't reveal an answer to my specific question, I will almost always find an answer to another prayer, or a verse that I'm going to need at some point during the day.

  But, although the Bible is one of the main ways, that is not the only way God communicates with us. He often uses other people, some who may not even be Christians. I am one of the worst at receiving criticism or rebuke, especially from my siblings. Humility is the answer. The key that unlocks many doors. Listen carefully to others' correction - it's very likely God is using them to accomplish His purpose.

  God speaks to me through horses. Their amazing power and beauty constantly brings to mind the Creator, their devotion reminds me of how I should love and adore my Lord, their trust (even when they really don't understand exactly what I'm asking and why) reminds me of how my Provider has the big picture when I only have the snapshot of the current situation...and the list keeps on going.

  Nature echos His praises.  

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. (Psalm 19:1-3)

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (Romans 1:20)

...And then, of course, music. It's a whole other absolutely beautiful language that says what words cannot.



  How does God speak to you? Are you listening for His voice? Have you completely surrendered? Oh, and remember, surrender is NOT a one-time thing!! Have you poured out your heart? Yes, God knows every single thing about you...but He wants to hear it. From you. Prayer is not a ritual - it's a wonderful gift from God! Are you treating it as such, and coming boldly to His throne?