Faith in Practice

Praying essentially means: Talking with God.

It is quite something powerful that we, as humans, get to speak with the Most High, with the God who created the heavens and the earth, and that He listens to us. Have you ever spoken to a Head of State? No, of course not. Because it's not that simple. One would have to make a written request for a conversation, and even then, it's not certain whether that conversation will take place.

God is above all kings, chancellors, ministers, presidents, mayors, etc.

No one can compare themselves to Him, no matter how great or powerful they may be. And yet, God listens to us when we want to speak with Him. Isn't that wonderful?

In 1 Samuel 1:15, we read about Hannah pouring out her heart before the Lord. Just as one would pour out a jug full of water, we are allowed to pour out our hearts before the Lord. What does this mean?

Thus we can tell the Lord everything. But we must always remain reverent, because He is the great, almighty God.

However, there is something we must talk to God about first. When a stranger comes to our door, he will also first tell who he is and what he intends to do. The same applies to a person who wants to speak to God for the first time. Of course, God knows who we are. But He wants to hear it from our own mouth.

"Who are you?" He will ask. And then we can only give one answer: "I am a sinner". What do we then do? We confess everything we have done wrong and ask God to forgive us. Here is an example from the Bible, from Luke 18:9-14. Take enough time to read this passage and take it deeply into your heart.

Who are the people who pray there?

We should take the tax collector as our example. His entire demeanor shows that he feels guilty and repents of his sins.

For ...