Prayer…why do it?

Let me first preface this by saying I am very legalistic and analytical in nature.  The science behind things and the reasons why I do something are essential for me to make sense of my doing it.  Prayer is one of those funny things that does not fit nicely into the realm of logic.  I am praying to someone who already knows what I am thinking.  It would seem that I am repeating what God already knows.  So why do it?

Being so scientific in nature I struggle often with several issues of faith and the surreal nature of God and our being.  For some reason I have always ‘bought’ into prayer and have rarely questioned its importance in my life.  I guess I have always felt the necessity of its purpose in my life.  For me it was always easy to break down the science or logic behind it.

1. If I don’t communicate with someone closest to me then our relationship fizzles out. It is true with the humans around me and being human it results in my relationship with God.

2. Though God may know what I am thinking, prayer is reflective in helping me find what I am thinking in a manner that is focused on Him.

3. It sets up a discipline of time management for God. Much like Daniel in the Old Testament, it is a constant reminder of where I belong and who I belong too. It makes sure that my purpose does not get lost throughout my day.

4. There is no doubt in my mind that it has improved mine and improves others critical thinking skills in making decisions both large and small. The spirit will aid and guide, but we must be willing to take the time to reflect and lead.

5. Faith grows stronger through obedience, and also we must trust the way the Father has established communication is the best way in which to communicate. The Israelite’s didn’t always understand the reasons why they were doing certain things, but science has shown us through time that many of the commands were established based on health, welfare and spirituality. Prayer brings trust and obedience, and as studies have shown also greater health, longer life and happiness.

Prayer is an essential part of our Christian walk.  It is essential to those who have a faith driven by feeling and emotion and it is also essential to those that are driven by reason and logic.  There is a purpose for prayer in any one’s life.  Find the purpose for prayer.