We have touched on the whether and why of prayer. Now we need to pay attention to the how. Four questions arise: How often should we pray? Where should we pray? Should we use patterned prayers? And what should we pray for? First, how often should we pray? Jesus does not say. In Matthew 6:5, he begins, “And when you pray…,” then talks about where to pray. Jesus assumes we will pray; he does not tell us how often. Jesus’ own life suggests an answer, however. According to Luke 5:16, “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke does … Continue reading Day 3: How Often Should We Pray?

If you are going to experience God through prayer, you will need a better guide than me. Because I am a pastor, I am embarrassed to admit that I am not the greatest pray-er. I experience moments when my prayers lurch along in fits and starts. I often find my prayers directing God’s attention to me rather than my attention to him. I am not the best guide for your journey. Fortunately, I am not your only choice—nor do you have to turn to other pastors or spiritual writers. God himself provides ample guidance on how to pray. Remember Hebrews … Continue reading Day 2: Two Questions about Spiritual Disciplines

Dear Friends: Today, I’m beginning a 42-day series, Experiencing God through Prayer. This Daily Word series will run seven days a week through the end of August. In September, I’ll resume my verse-by-verse study of 1 Corinthians. As you read this series, I encourage you to dedicate yourself anew to prayer. May God bless you richly! George Paul Wood —– Day 1: Our Conversation with God Over the next forty-two days, I want to help you experience God through prayer. God is not an idea to be contemplated but a Person to be loved. According to Matthew 22:37, “the first … Continue reading Day 1: Our Conversation with God