Why Don’t We Pray More Often?

Preacher:
Date: August 14, 2023

Every now and then I remember a truth from the Bible that I’ve known for a very long time—but suddenly it pops into my mind almost as if I’d never heard it before. That happened to me recently when I remembered that I have the privilege of talking to the Creator of the universe any time I wish. In my lifetime, I’ll probably never have the chance to talk to a great earthly president or king. But, wonder of wonders, at His invitation, anytime I wish, I can talk to the One who brought everything into existence. And I can come 24 hours a day. No appointment needed.

 

When Jesus died on the cross, “At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51 KJV). The sanctuary was the area of the Temple in Jerusalem that only the high priest could enter once a year to offer blood representing Christ’s blood that paid for our sins. But Ephesians 2:18 NLT tells us: “Now all of us can come to the Father through the …Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.” Now Hebrews 4:16 KJV makes us this offer: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

 

One more thought. If talking to the Creator of the universe seems a bit scary to you, remember that when the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, His sample prayer began with “Our Father in heaven.” That too is a wonderful thought because it tells us we can have a relationship with this amazing God—our Father.

 

Then, why on earth don’t we do pray more often? Why does prayer often end up at the end of our day just before we drop off to sleep? Think about it!