To some people, the idea of prayer sounds mysterious and other-worldly…sort of like a fairytale. I mean can we really talk to God? The God of the universe? The God who leveled cities, flooded the entire earth, and breathed life into humanity? Yes, yes we can. And it is an experience like no other.

There is no other place where I can bare my soul in brutal honesty–laying my  failures before Him in all their ugliness– or fall at the feet of Jesus for mercy and forgiveness. There’s nowhere else that I can openly share my doubts and fears about life—my life–and about the world at large, as it spirals into chaos and depravity.

Nowhere else can I lift up loved ones and friends who desperately need help, healing, and salvation–from the fount of blessing and hope Himself.

Prayer allows me the opportunity to praise God, as well–for his blessings, his healing, and his sustenance. And, above all, to praise and honor Him for who he is! After all, it is God who sustains my life day after day and therefore, he is worthy of praise!

And where else can I find wisdom for all of life’s decisions and challenges? The task of being a godly and effective wife, mom, daughter, friend and neighbor is completely impossible in my own strength. I need help and guidance from someone outside of myself–the original creator of all that is wise, and perfect, and true. God himself.

Prayer is not a mystical fairytale. It is simply, a conversation with God. At the same time, simple…yet profound. I couldn’t get through life without it. Not only do I talk to God throughout my day, but I set aside special times of quiet solitude to convene with Him. Yes, it can be a challenge for a busy mom in a fast-paced, unforgiving culture, but it will make an astounding difference in your life…I guarantee it! Focus on your prayer life this week or start praying for the very first time. God is waiting. He wants to hear from you– to give you wisdom, hope, strength and healing.

“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:12-13 (NIV)

“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” Psalm 145:18 (NIV)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)