Praying to our Heavenly Father (Part I)

Why do we pray

Have you ever stopped to contemplate the question "why do we pray"? Simply put, prayer has been an intergral part of the Gospel since the beginning of time. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, where commanded by an angel of the Lord to "repent and call upon God in the name of His son, Jesus Christ. (See: Moses 5:8) This Commandment has never been revoked and still applies today.

Pray for strength. If we go to the father in prayer with a broken heart and a contrite spirit (See: Ensign - A Broken Heart and a Contrite Spirit) and pray for protection from "the snares of the Evil One", God will hear your prayer and answer it (See: 3 Nephi 18:15, Doctrine & Covenants 10:5).

Prayer for the Lord's guidance and help in our daily lives. It is important for us to pray for our family and friends, our neighbors, our work, and other daily activities. We should be mindful to seek protection from our enemies -- including Satan. (See: Alma 34:17-27).

 

We should express love to our Heavenly Father. This helps us, as His children, to grow closer to Him. We should give thanks to Him for our welfare and comfort and His many blessings each day. (See: 1 Thessalonians 5:18)
 

When should we pray?

 

That is the nice thing about prayer, we don't have to wait for a certain time . . . we can do it anytime we want to commune with Heavenly Father. Sometimes you might be alone when your pray where you can pour your heart out to Him (See: Matthew 6:6); other times to pray include: during a church meeting, while we're walking, or preparing a meal. We can keep Heavenly Father in our thoughts at all times (See: Alma 34:27) 

 

There are times when we might not feel like praying. If we are angry, discouraged, or upset, these are the times we should make a special effort to pray. (See: 2 Nephi 32:8-9)

 

We should pray in private at least twice a day. The Scriptures tell us to pray morning, mid-day, and evening. (See:  Alma 34:2)

 

We should pray with our family.  In doing this, our families also receive Heavenly Father's blessing. (See: 3 Nephi 18:2)

 

To be continued . . .

 

I say these things in Jesus Christ' name, Amen!