Rise Up & Pray by Maria Guzman
Hello Brave Hearted Steppers,
I hope the blog posts in the Rise Up & Pray series have been as much of a blessing to your lives as they have been to mine. Today, let's continue to dive into the Rise Up and Pray series!
Maintaining a constant connection with God can be challenging in our fast-paced world, as it's easy to get distracted. However, through intentional practices and a heart devoted to prayer, we can rise up and stay in constant connection with God.
Here are some steps and life applications to help you deepen your relationship with God:
1. Start Your Day with Prayer
Begin each day by dedicating it to God. Before you check your phone or dive into your to-do list, take a moment to pray. This sets a positive tone for the day and aligns your heart with God’s will.
“The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.” - Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT)
2. Practice the Pause, Pray, Take 30! Method
Throughout your day, take intentional pauses to reconnect with God. This method involves stopping whatever you’re doing, praying for 30 seconds, and then resuming your activities. It’s a simple yet powerful way to keep God at the forefront of your mind.
Prompt Example: “Pause and thank God for one blessing in your life right now.”
“Never stop praying.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT)
3. Use Scripture in Your Prayers
Incorporate Bible verses into your prayers. This not only strengthens your prayers but also helps you meditate on God’s Word. Choose verses that resonate with your current situation or feelings.
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” - Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
4. Create a Prayer Journal
Writing down your prayers can help you stay focused and see how God answers them over time. Record your requests, praises, and reflections. This practice can deepen your faith and provide a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” - Psalm 77:11 (NLT)
5. Join your local church prayer time
Community is essential in our spiritual journey. Join your local church prayer time where you can share your prayer requests, support each other, and pray together. This fosters accountability and encouragement.
“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” - Matthew 18:20 (NLT)
6. Set Reminders to Pray
Use technology to your advantage by setting reminders on your phone to pray at specific times during the day. This can help you develop a habit of constant prayer.
7. Pray in All Circumstances
Make prayer your first response, not your last resort. Whether you’re facing a challenge or celebrating a victory, bring it to God in prayer.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
8. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness
Take time to reflect on how God has been faithful in your life. This can strengthen your faith and encourage you to trust Him more.
Psalm 77:11 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Psalm 77:11 (NIV)
9. Incorporate Worship into Your Routine
Worship isn’t just for Sundays. Incorporate worship music into your daily routine to keep your heart and mind focused on God.
“Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.” - Psalm 95:6 (NLT)
10. End Your Day with Gratitude
Conclude your day by reflecting on God’s blessings and expressing gratitude. This practice can bring peace and remind you of God’s presence throughout your day.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” - Psalm 136:1 (NLT)
Maintaining a constant connection with God requires intentionality and practice. By incorporating these steps and life applications into your daily routine, you can Rise Up and Pray, staying connected with God throughout your day.
Let’s commit to these practices and encourage one another on this journey. Remember, God is always with us, ready to listen and guide us. Rise up, Brave Hearted Steppers, and pray!
Maria Guzman
Founder of Brave Hearted Ministry
Thank you for reminding us the importance of prayer. Definitely love the pause and take 30 method.
ReplyDeleteYou’re very welcome Lizzy! I’m glad the reminder about the importance of prayer resonated with you. The “Pause, Pray, Take 30!” method has truly been a blessing, helping many of us stay connected with God. It’s great to hear that you love this approach for prayer. Many Blessings to you!
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