Over the course of the last 21 years of walking in Christ, there have been many areas of my life that have needed, and still do need, conformity and discipline to the Word of God. One particular area where I have been striving to be much more disciplined and resolved, trained in submission, and in taking much joy, is that of being alone with God. Men of old used to say, being “shut-up” unto God.
Nothing has helped me more in this area than examining and thinking upon Jesus and His life of prayer with the Father. Although many good books have been written on the subject, and even though I love study, reading and studying cannot compare to the reality, and practice might I add, to the getting alone with God in prayerful praise, intercession and petition with the Almighty Creator. May we never despise the carving out of time and devotion, in private practice, time spent with Him.
When reading the verses below, read and re-read the passage, take note of the surrounding context, and most of all, take these to the Lord Himself in time devoted in separation from the world. Regardless of how much time you start with, carve it into your day with a heart of devotion and a singleness of eye.
Helpful note: You may notice that when you begin to take the time to pray and seek the Lord in a deeper or more true way, you may notice that everything you need to do comes flooding to your mind. If this happens, the wisdom that David Ravenhill gave me, as he also practices, is to have a small piece of paper or sticky note, with a pen, available. For when distracting thoughts come to mind, jot them down for later. I highly suggest using paper and not a computer or phone to help reduce the risk of distractions.
- Luke 11:1 – “Lord, teach us to pray…”
- Luke 4:42 – “When day came, Jesus left and went to a secluded place…”
- Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.”
- Luke 18:1-8 – “…that at all times they ought to pray and to not loose heart…”
- Matthew 6:7 – “…when praying you are not to be like the hypocrites…”
- Matthew 5:44 – “…pray for your enemies…”
- John 17 (especially 17:3) – “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” Consider Jeremiah 9:23-25 as well.
- Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46 – Jesus praying in the garden
- Hebrews 5:7-9 – “In the days of His flesh…”
Take heed: 2 Corinthians 11:3
Will you find faith in me? | Don’t lose heart | Teach us how to pray | Resource helps
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