Why I Pray

Prayer is more than a spiritual discipline for me—it’s a lifeline, a sanctuary, and a daily reminder of who God is and who I am in Him. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that prayer is not just something I do; it’s a reflection of my relationship with God.

I Pray Because I Need God
As I often say, "Life be lifing." That phrase, which I first heard preached by Dr. Freddie Haynes, Pastor of Friendship West Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, at the Hampton Ministers’ Conference, deeply resonated with me because it speaks to the reality we all face. Challenges arise, uncertainties shake our confidence, and there are moments when I feel utterly inadequate to handle what’s ahead. Yet, in those moments, prayer becomes my anchor. It reminds me that I don’t have to carry the weight of life on my own. Philippians 4:6-7 reassures us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Through prayer, I exchange my worries for His peace, trusting in His strength to sustain me.

I Pray Because It Connects Me to God
Prayer is how I stay connected to God. It’s my way of acknowledging His presence in my life, seeking His wisdom, and aligning my heart with His will. In John 15:5, Jesus said, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

Through prayer, I stay rooted in Him. It’s not just about asking for things—it’s about building a relationship. Whether I’m praising Him for His goodness, thanking Him for His blessings, or simply sitting in silence before Him, prayer deepens my connection with the One who knows me best.

I Pray Because God Hears Me
One of the most humbling truths about prayer is that the God of the universe listens. He doesn’t just hear my words; He hears my heart. Psalm 34:17 says, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

There’s comfort in knowing that my prayers don’t go unheard. Even when I don’t have the words to express what I’m feeling, the Holy Spirit intercedes for me (Romans 8:26). I pray because I know that God cares about me and is always ready to respond in His perfect way and timing.

I Pray Because It Changes Me
One of the most powerful aspects of prayer is how it transforms me. There have been times when I’ve prayed for God to change my circumstances, but instead, He changed me. Through prayer, I’ve learned patience, forgiveness, and trust. I’ve discovered peace in the midst of storms and joy in the middle of trials.

2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds me that as I spend time with God, I’m being transformed to reflect His glory: "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."

Why I Pray 
I pray because I need God, because I want to know Him more, and because I believe in the power of His presence in my life. I pray because I’ve seen what happens when I don’t—when I try to navigate life on my own strength. Prayer isn’t just a spiritual practice for me; it’s my way of staying grounded, growing in faith, and trusting in God’s goodness.

So, why do you pray? If you’ve never made prayer a regular part of your life, I encourage you to start today. It doesn’t have to be perfect or polished. Just talk to God. Share your heart, your struggles, and your gratitude. I promise, He’s listening.

Love you and there ain't nothing you can do about it.
FLC