How to Pray

Do you know how to pray, especially when something tragic hits you or your family? My mother started her journey with Alzheimer’s when she was only 59. The road she went down got worse and worse. I prayed for her every day, but often I would wonder how to pray. I have a neighbor who has cancer and is scheduled for surgery. How do I pray for her?

My mother-in-law has dementia – how do I pray for her? A colleague has been battling cancer for several years – how do I pray for him? My grandson has a rare liver disease. He’s doing well but takes a boatload of medicine. How do I pray for him?

Amid my wondering how to pray, God provided some insight. “Stop complicating every situation!” God perfectly hears our cries for help. In Psalm 6:4, David says, “Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.” David’s situation isn’t explained in this Psalm, but it surely was during a time of confusion and despair. Verse 6 says, “I am worn out from my groaning.” This Psalm is considered a psalm of confession. David is in “deep anguish” because of his sins and shortcomings, but God came to him and answered his prayers.

David didn’t let sins and failures stop him from going to God with his need. In verses 8-9 we read, “The Lord has heard my weeping. The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.”

God hears and accepts the honest prayers of His children, even when we are confused and uncertain. God is always ready to hear us, especially when we need Him the most. Seek God today and pray an uncomplicated prayer!

Prayer – Are you asking for God’s help? What help will you seek from God today? Amen.

Psalm 6:9 – “The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.”

By the Rev. Tommy Herndon  

Images: Ben White, Jacob Sedlacek & David Beale, courtesy of Unsplash