PRAYER

We talk to our partners, our kids, our friends and even acquaintances. It's second nature isn't it? So why do we sometimes feel awkward talking to God? God loves it when we talk to him and he has promised that he will hear our prayers. 1 John 5:15 reminds us, "And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for."  We can ask God anything, big or small or we can simply just express our thankfulness to him. Because of our sins, there was a barrier between us and God but through Jesus's death on the cross, this barrier has been removed. It says in Isaiah 59:2 "It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore." When we repent from our sins and accept Jesus as our Saviour, we have direct access to God and he hears our prayers and answers then according to his will for us. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Pretty amazing isn't it! For more information on prayer go to: 

Lectio 365 is a free daily devotional app created by 24-7 Prayer and CWR that helps you engage with the Bible and build a rhythm of daily prayer. Inspired by ancient Christian practices, it provides daily audio and text devotionals.

• Morning (Lectio Divina): Helps you pause and follow the P.R.A.Y. rhythm: Pause, Rejoice with a Psalm, Reflect on Scripture, Ask for help, and Yield to His will.
• Midday (The Lord's Prayer): Invites you to pause, pray the Lord's Prayer, and shift your focus from your own agenda to God's kingdom.
• Night (The Examen): Helps you prepare for rest by reflecting on the day, relinquishing stress, rejoicing in God's presence, repenting of shortcomings, and resting in peace.