My Life as a PK: The Benefit of Prayer

Welcome back to Mahalia's Inspirations. I am so happy you joined me today to read about the benefits of prayer. This will start the first series of "My Life as a PK" for those who don't know, PK stands for preacher kid or pastor kid. I often shared the church's influence on my upbringing and why I am here doing what I love. My parents are both ministers, and I come from a long line of well-respected ministers and teachers. One of the many things that were taught to me from the moment I came out of the womb was prayer. In my family, prayer was always powerful and loud. My parents instilled in my sisters and I what prayer is, why we should pray, and when we should pray. These three reasons are what I will break down, so get your coffee, your juice, or tea, and a notepad and let's dive in!

What is Prayer?

Prayer is a form of communication between God and yourself and is how you develop a relationship with God. Like in human relationships, communication is essential; the same goes for your relationship with God. Through prayer, you thank God and ask him to protect and continue providing for your family. So many believe prayer is like a wish list you give to Santa; God just grants it. But prayer is far more profound yet so simple. 

Many people think praying is like a list of wants and desires, but actually, it's about expressing yourself to a friend. Think about your closest friend or person; you tell them everything, right? Whether it's small talk or something significant that happens in your life. That bond and communication can be used when you talk to God. It takes courage and faith to pray because God is a spirit, and you cannot see him; you have to rely on religion and the feeling to trust that God hears you. Each prayer will be different when you pray because it is reflected in each moment of the day. 

Why should we pray?

We should pray because it strengthens our relationship with God; when you talk to him daily, he speaks back to you, which builds trust in your connection. Prayer is also a way of protecting your friends and loved ones. God calls us to pray and intercede on behalf of others. That is a huge responsibility and trust that God allows us to have. We can pray to him, not for our selfish ways but to just go before him for someone else that may not know how to pray or is just so overwhelmed at the moment to pray for themselves. John 17:15 states, "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but protect them from the evil one." Praying for someone else well being shows unity and love.   

Finally, prayer provides strength and hope in times of need. The story of Hannah in the bible is an excellent example of the power of prayer. 1 Samuel 1:9-28 talks about a woman named Hannah who wanted a son so bad she took time every day and prayed to God. In her prayers, she reminded God of her faithfulness and their bond; because of their strong bond, she requested God for something she desired with all her might, and God blessed her by answering her prayer. Moreover, through her prayers, she showed dedication and trust in her father, her friend who sees her heart. 

When should we Pray?

This is the first best part because you can pray anytime, anywhere. Many believe you must pray long prayers, have the perfect words, and have grand gestures. But you can pray in your car, at home, in the grocery store, and in the middle of an argument. That is the beauty of praying because it can be intimate, short, or extended; however, you want it to be because it is just you and God. 

Today I will end this blog with a prayer for all who view this. May your relationship with God be developed and strengthened starting today. I pray that you learn how to pray and remember that it just talking to someone who can confide in. Remember, you don't have to be perfect or this religious person to talk to God. May you have a blessed week and be covered under God's protection in Jesus' name Amen. 

I hope this message encourages you and gives insight into the benefit of prayer; see you next time. 

~Mahalia💛💛