Chosen Ministries, Inc.

Yesterday we learned the 6 keys for praying effectively. Today, I'd like to share 4 additional keys that relate more to your attitude toward prayer. These keys will help you approach prayer in a way that will foster authenticity and intimacy in your prayer life.

The first key is to be HUMBLE when you approach God in prayer.

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." ~2 Chronicles 7:14

The next key is to be INTIMATE with God. This is your opportunity to be completely open and honest with your heavenly Father. There is nothing he cannot handle, and He knows what you're going through.

"When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." ~Matthew 6:5-6

Third, we have to be FORGIVING. We tie God's hands when we are not willing to forgive, but this is something He can help you to do. Be honest with God and let Him show you how to let go of the pain from the past and forgive those who have hurt you.

"If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." ~Matthew 6:14-15

Finally, we need to be EXPECTANT in our prayers. Why even approach God if we don't really think He can do what we're asking. An expectant person prepares for what they know they will receive before they receive it.

"Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." ~Mark 11:24

What are you doing to prepare yourself for the things God wants to bless you with?