"How important is prayer?" by Chad O

Most Christians have to condition themselves to have a faithful prayer life. I have struggled with it all my life but I have found what works for me. I schedule it into my daily routine. Now before you question my sincerity, let me explain. Prayer at dinner, prayer with my staff, prayer before bedtime and prayer before meetings is not what I'm talking about. Those are great ways to invite God in and set the tone for the work we are about to do. Bedtime and before meal prayers are great as well, I'm talking about "Everyday Prayers".

I used to direct my prayers toward the large and important things until I was totally convicted by the verse, "you have not because you ask not." I felt like God gave us intelligence to handle the small matters. Boy was I wrong all these years. Even today I am reminded of God's promise: "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."

Of course, I'm not talking about turning God into some kind of cosmic Santa Clause. But if we pray God-centered prayers, there is always a place for our personal needs. He who taught us to pray, "...your kingdom come..." also taught us to pray, "...give us today our daily bread..."

"In prayer, as in all of life, there must be a balance between daily bread and coming kingdoms. If we discipline ourselves to spend time in prayer getting to know God, thinking God's thoughts after Him, we will never be guilty of praying petty selfish prayers." - Richard Exley

So how do I do it?
- I set my alarm to wake up at the same time everyday [4:30am]
- In order to do that I have to discipline myself to go to bed at a decent time.
- (M-F) I pray from an ongoing list to keep me focused. (yes I open my eyes)
- On Fridays I pray for the specific needs of my staff, their kids, my church and church leadership in depth. (this is from a list as well)

When I'm in God's will the easy decisions of life come naturally and don't require me stopping to pray about every little detail. It's evident because I make great decisions and God blesses my efforts. However, if I try to do it on my own, He let's me know.