Most seasoned Christians agree that prayer is the catalyst that produces spiritual vigor. Prayer is the one thing that keeps us afloat and even thriving regardless of the circumstance. Perhaps that’s why prayer is difficult. I’m convinced the enemy will go to any length to distract us from prayer. Time and again I’ve found that my prayer life needs tending to more than any other spiritual discipline.
One of the ways I rekindle my prayer life is to read books on prayer. Learning how other Christ-followers approach prayer often reignites my prayer life and teaches me new ways to improve mine. Currently, I’m reading E.M. Bounds on Prayer. Bounds (1835-1913) was a Methodist pastor, attorney, and author of eleven books—many of which addressed the topic of prayer.
Here are seven quotes from E.M. Bounds that I hope will influence your prayer life:
- More than anything else, Satan wants us to let the grass grow on the path to our prayer chamber.
- He who is too busy to pray will be too busy to live a holy life.
- Prayers are deathless. They outlive the lives of those who uttered them.
- Nothing is well done without prayer for the simple reason that it leaves God out of the account.
- God shapes the world by prayer.
- Public prayers are of little value unless they are founded or followed up by private praying.
- Therefore, the believer who is the most highly skilled in prayer will do the most for God.
More than anything, I want to live my life in communion with God. I know this relationship only comes through prayer. Let’s take our cue from the apostle Paul, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Col 4:2 NIV).
