Why Do We Pray?

There are times in my life when I have hard thing after hard thing stacked on top of one another. I have something stressful going on with my work, and then I have a tense relationship with my family. I am sucked into all the bad news about the world, and then I also have a headache or a backache. Everything combines until it feels impossible to keep moving. In moments like these, I remember that I need to call out to God.

I rely heavily on God’s comfort and guidance when everything in my life is adding up to be too much for me to handle on my own. I am so thankful that He invites me to put all my burdens on Him—not only when I’m overwhelmed but all the time. When I am stressed out or in pain, when I am physically or emotionally tired, He is there with me. God knows what I’m struggling with, and He cares. In fact, He cares so much about me that Jesus came all the way to earth, died, and rose again to save me. The new life Jesus invites me into is one of rest, relying on Him and submitting to His gentle and humble leadership. Because I have put my trust in Him, I know that I am never alone. His Holy Spirit is in me, comforting me and empowering me to follow Jesus. He never leaves my side, and He is waiting to carry my heavy load.

There are good and bad moments in my life, as I am sure there are good and bad moments in your life. It is amazing to me that God stays the same through them all and He is always right there, waiting to help. • Emily Acker

• When you feel like all the things going on in your life add up to be too much for you to carry, remember God doesn’t expect you to be able to handle it all by yourself. What are some practical ways you can make time to come to God in prayer and give your worries over to Him?

• One way God provides help is through other people (Galatians 6:2). Who are some people in your life you can turn to for help when you’re feeling overwhelmed?

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time, casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (WEB)

Read Verses:

Matthew 6:5-8; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 4:2