In your spiritual life, what are the top three things that need the most improvement? It is certain our answers would vary as we all have special needs and are at varying levels of spiritual maturity. Perhaps a common answer would be more bible study. Another common improvement could be to govern my anger levels and control my temper better. Some might say: my example and influence as a Christian needs to improve. Others might indicate a need to quit worrying so much and develop a better sense of trust in God.

Whatever our spiritual needs may be—how much thought is given to our prayer life? Would it be presumptuous to say that most Christians need an improvement in the frequency of prayer? What about the need to really open up to God and steer away from the common phrases and repetitions we have heard throughout the years? With little or no thought, we often offer God the “blanket” phrases: bless the sick & afflicted; guide, guard and direct us; if it be Thy will; watch over those on the road traveling and bring them safely back to us; bless this food to the nourishment of our bodies; etc., etc., etc. While there is nothing wrong with the above phrases—we must make sure we are not just repeating them with no thought whatsoever.

Prayer is an imperative with the Christian. Ps 105:3-4 says, Glory in His holy name; Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad. Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually. We also note Psa. 145:18-21: The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. 19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them. 20 The LORD keeps all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy. 21 My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, And all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever.