REASONS TO PRAY

First of all, what is prayer? Prayer is the act of communicating with God, with a higher power. It doesn’t have to consist of the standard prayers we learned as a child. A prayer can consist of a simple phrase or two. “Lord, I’m thinking of you today. Please brighten my day and assist me in all that I do.

”An essential aspect of daily prayer is the belief that you are communicating with God. It is also vitally important that you have faith that your prayers will be answered. Like:

“…prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well...” James 5:15

“Pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

“Prayer produces prosperity.” Jeremiah 29:7

“Prayer provides wisdom.” James 1:4

“Prayer yields peace.” Phil 4:6-7

Personally, I like to engage in meditative prayer. My prayer of choice is the Rosary, which I say on a regular basis. A string of beads, called Rosary beads, are used to keep track of the prayers as they are recited. The Rosary allows me to focus on a particular subject as the prayers are repeated. Sometimes I’ll focus on my relationship with the Lord. Other times I’ll focus on a special request that I might have. In either case, I find it very relaxing, almost soothing. Although I have no proof, I believe that my blood pressure is lower when I engage in prayer. I also feel renewed and refreshed after a session of prayer. It’s similar to a form of meditation where a mantra is repeated over and over.

There are many reasons for praying, like:

Numerous scientific studies indicate that prayer can have significant beneficial effects. These studies have shown that
those who pray regularly tend to be happier, more peaceful, and healthier than those who don't.

Pray on a regular basis. That way, when the inevitable day comes and you finally arrive at the pearly gates, the Lord will recognize you.

Prayers are answered if you truly believe. This is the basis for the popular program called The Law of Attraction. In fact, the main thesis for this and the entire positive thinking industry is a quote taken directly from the bible:

“but most of all…all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive”.