It’s time to pray (1)

A few years ago, there were very few 24-hour shops or restaurants. If we wanted something, we had to stick to the shop’s opening time. Not anymore: now we have supermarkets that are open round the clock, drive-throughs whenever we feel hungry or thirsty, and instant access to many services online. But that’s how God has always operated; He’s available 24/7. And although praying isn’t limited to set times, there are certain times when it’s vital that we talk to God. Here are two: 1) When we’ve sinned. Our emotions of guilt and shame, plus Satan ‘the accuser’, will try to convince us to avoid God. But turning to Him is the only solution to sin. David was burdened by adultery, deception, and murder, when he realised he needed to confess his sin to God. ‘Cleanse me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow…Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me’ (v.7, 10 NIVUK). John said God is ‘faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness’ (1 John 1:9 NIV). When we’ve sinned, a fresh new beginning is only a prayer away. 2) When we’re worried and afraid. We don’t have to look too far to find things to worry about; they’re all around us. Money worries, employment problems, health issues, and family concerns can make us stressed-out and anxious. Where can we turn? To God. Prayer is God’s answer to fear and anxiety. ‘Don’t worry over anything whatever; tell God every detail of your needs in…thankful prayer, and the peace of God which transcends human understanding, will keep constant guard over your hearts and minds’ (Philippians 4:6-7 PHPS).