Mornings With Jesus 2016: 14-Day Reading PlanSample

Years ago I read this list of commands—rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in everything—and wondered how in the world anyone could fulfill them, especially the one about praying nonstop. Seriously? I grew up believing that God would hear me only if I assumed the prerequisite body posture—closed eyes and folded hands. Easier said than done when driving on the freeway or supervising kids at the playground.

Thankfully, Scripture’s commands are always doable, and this one is no exception. So how can we pray continually when we’re at work, watching our kids, engaged in a critical conversation, or suffering to the degree that we can scarcely string a sentence together? Here are six simple suggestions that work for me:

When I’m in a difficult situation, I pray, “Jesus—wisdom.”

When circumstances cause anxiety, I pray, “Jesus—peace.”

When finances fall short of monthly bills, I pray, “Jesus—provision.”

When noise and activity surround me, I pray, “Jesus—rest.”

When a difficult person offends me, I pray, “Jesus—love.”

When I don’t know what to pray, I pray, “Jesus—help!”

I find this prayer method helps me maintain a constant awareness of Jesus’s presence and power. It prompts me to talk with Him as with a good friend not only when I need something, but at all times. It even helps me obey the other command in today’s verse by saying many times each day, “Jesus—thank You.”

Maybe you’ll find these phrases helpful, or perhaps you already have a favorite method. The bottom line is pray continually. —Grace Fox

FAITH STEP: Read Luke 11:1-13. Ask Jesus to teach you to pray as He did. Thank Him for promising to hear and answer your prayers, and choose to trust Him when He doesn’t answer your requests when and how you wish.