As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of resolutions and self-improvement goals. The gyms are packed, financial plans are being reviewed, and dietary changes are underway. But what about our spiritual lives? Amidst the clamor for physical and material betterment, it’s crucial to remember that our relationship with God deserves just as much, if not more, attention.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be exploring spiritual disciplines – time-tested habits that have been drawing people closer to God for centuries. These practices aren’t meant to overwhelm us or demand immediate, drastic changes. Instead, they invite us to take small, consistent steps towards deepening our faith.
The concept of gradual improvement is beautifully illustrated in James Clear’s book “Atomic Habits.” Clear suggests that if we improve just 1% each day, we’ll end up 37% better by year’s end. This principle of compound growth applies not just to our physical or financial goals, but to our spiritual lives as well. As we embark on this journey of spiritual growth, let’s keep in mind that we’re not aiming for instant perfection, but rather steady progress.
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, spoke of “Christian perfection” not as a state of flawless existence, but as a life characterized by purity of intention, holiness in thought and deed, and wholehearted devotion to loving God and neighbor. This perfection isn’t something we achieve through sheer willpower, but through opening ourselves to God’s sanctifying grace.
Among the various spiritual disciplines, prayer stands out as foundational. If we desire to grow in faith and draw closer to God, consistent prayer is non-negotiable. But what exactly is prayer? Too often, we view it merely as talking to God, presenting our wishes and concerns. While this is part of it, true prayer is about communication – both speaking and listening.
In our fast-paced, opinion-saturated world, the art of listening has become increasingly rare. Sister Joan Chittister, a Benedictine nun, emphasizes the importance of listening in spirituality – not just to the Gospels or religious teachings, but also to one another and the world around us. Prayer, at its core, is about creating space to listen to God.
However, prayer isn’t always easy. As the Apostle Paul acknowledges in Romans 8:26-27, “We do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words.” There are times when we struggle to find the right words, when our prayers seem inadequate or misaligned with God’s will. It’s in these moments that we can find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, bridging the gap between our limited understanding and God’s perfect will.
So how do we begin to develop prayer as a spiritual discipline in our lives? While historical figures like Martin Luther and John Wesley were known for spending hours in prayer daily, such practices can seem overwhelming to most of us. Remember, we can’t compare our beginning to someone else’s end. Instead, let’s focus on small, achievable steps that can lead to lasting change.
Here are three practical ways to cultivate a life of prayer:
1. Start small and stay consistent: Choose a specific time and place for prayer each day. It could be first thing in the morning, right before bed, or any time in between. The key is consistency. Don’t wait until you feel like praying – feelings are fleeting, but habits endure.
2. Avoid distractions: Find a quiet space where you can focus. If your current routine is hectic, consider adjusting it to create room for prayer. Anticipate potential interruptions and have a plan to overcome them.
3. Understand the purpose of prayer: Remember that prayer is about communicating with God and drawing closer to Him. It’s not a cosmic wish list or a way to manipulate outcomes. Prayer teaches us to love, to have compassion, and to find ourselves in God.
As you embark on this journey of developing a prayer life, don’t be discouraged if it feels awkward or challenging at first. You don’t need to start perfectly; you just need to start. Take small, consistent steps towards a deeper relationship with God. Show up, even on days when you don’t feel like it, knowing that God always shows up for you.
It’s also helpful to remember that you’re not alone in this endeavor. Consider finding an accountability partner or using resources like daily devotionals or prayer books to guide your practice. These tools can provide structure and inspiration, especially when you’re unsure how to begin.
Ultimately, prayer is both a discipline and a gift. It’s a way for us to draw closer to a God who loves us unconditionally and whose grace has the power to heal our deepest wounds. As we practice prayer, we create space for the Holy Spirit to work within us, even in our moments of weakness or uncertainty.
In the words of Paul, “The Spirit helps us in our weakness… [and] intercedes for the saints according to the will of God” (Romans 8:26-27). This assurance can give us confidence as we pray, knowing that even when our words fall short, God understands the longings of our hearts.
As we move forward into this new year, let’s commit to cultivating a life of prayer. Not with grand gestures or unrealistic expectations, but with small, intentional steps taken day by day. Let’s create systems that support our spiritual growth, understanding that consistency trumps intensity every time.
Remember, the goal isn’t to become a prayer warrior overnight. It’s to gradually open our hearts and minds to God’s presence, allowing His transformative grace to work in our lives. As we do so, we may find that prayer becomes less of a duty and more of a delight – a cherished conversation with the One who knows us best and loves us most.
So, whether you’re a seasoned prayer warrior or just beginning to explore this spiritual discipline, take heart. Every journey begins with a single step. May your steps in prayer, however small they may seem, lead you into a deeper, richer relationship with God in the year ahead.
