There has been a lot written about how and when to pray.  In Matthew 6-7 NIV, we read “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen…And when you pray, do not keep babbling like pagans for they think they will be heard because of their many words.”

Everyone has their own way of praying and while some methods and environments may be more conducive to prayer than others, prayer is something that can be done in a variety of ways.  I have certainly found that to be true in my own life.

During my life as a young person, I prayed at night because it was quiet as I had my own room being the only girl in a family of four children. It was my place of comfort and solitude where I could concentrate on the prayers I offered up, I could close my eyes, the room was dark and I could feel God’s presence.

As I got older, was working full time, grading copious amounts of papers, and raising a family, I got out of this habit because as soon as my head hit the pillow and I closed my eyes, I was asleep and nightly prayer was replaced by sleep, not by choice but because of exhaustion.  I would pray at odd intervals, whenever it was quiet which was a rarity but it was not particularly satisfying.

Since I have retired, although I don’t live a life of leisure by any means, I have had more time to think about the importance of daily prayer in my life and I take various opportunities to pray.  One I especially like is when I am doing my walking workout in the pool.  Walking in the pool itself is not especially riveting, so I take the time to center myself, focus on my words, and try to be conscious of God’s presence in my mind, body and soul.  I feel so invigorated as I am strengthening my body and heart at the same time.

I know this type of prayer is not for everyone, but I love it!  It also gives me uninterrupted time to remember that God loves me unconditionally and will lead me where I need to be if I only listen with an open heart.  Thanks be to God.

Patty