“If you talk to God, you are praying; If God talks to you, you have schizophrenia.” Thomas Szasz

Why would we expect our interactions with God to bring any benefit if all we do is talk, but never listen? I am sure that God speaks to people all of the time. Sadly, we do not always hear what He is saying. I have noticed that He is rather quiet mannered. We may be too busy and distracted. Our inner life may be so full of noise that we drown out His quiet words. Effective prayer is learning the value of quieting the soul. We may find that instead of talking “to” God we may start talking “with” Him.

“Be still and know that I am God.” Ps.46.10 Conversations Within” ts 9/29/2017

“Keep praying, but be thankful that God's answers are wiser than your prayers.” Meme

We usually think prayer is asking God to do stuff, but there is so much more to prayer than just asking. We nurture grateful attitudes. We talk to God about God and at the same time, about our own quirks. Some of my favorite times are just sharing the joys of the present moment with Him. Still, we should not stumble thinking that we are asking too much from Him. We are never in a better position than we are looking to Him for assistance.

“Ask and it will be given to you.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 9/29/2017

“God is everywhere so pray anywhere.” Meme

Father has made it rather convenient for us to talk with Him. His presence surrounds us. He invites us to meaningful and fruitful dialogue. If we are worried about our wrongdoings, He takes the initiative and offers forgiveness so that no offense on our part will come between us. We should not let anything rob us of a beautiful and intimate relationship with Someone so fascinating.  Wake to Him and speak the words in your heart.  

“In Him we live and move and have our being.” Acts 17.28 Conversations Within” ts 9/27/2016

“Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience.” Aiden Tozer

People often pray in order to get right with God, but once we are right with Him, God will surely use the prayers that follow to set things right in the world. Getting right with God is not something we earn, but something we experience. It begins when we agree with what His Spirit is speaking in us, both in our attitude and actions. Why would God not answer the prayers of someone who is in full agreement with Him?  

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.’ James 5.16 Conversations Within” ts 9/26/2016

“Never forget that if you are God's child through Jesus Christ, you are praying to a Father who couldn't love you more than he already does.” Bill Hybels

The secret of prayer is simply to pray. In truth there are no secrets, just the encouragements of God Himself to come and talk with Him as to a Father, one who loves and cares for His children. The better our understanding of this Father-child relationship, the more fruitful our conversations with Him will be.

“When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 9/25/2016