Thanksgiving is upon us and we often reflect on how we have been blessed throughout the past year. Prayers seem to be mentioned more during this time of year also. Although is seems odd, prayer is an often overlooked discipline in a Christian’s life.

At times my prayer life has been slow to non existent. However, I have come to discover that the focus of my prayers is the most overlooked and taken for granted area in my prayer life. Prayers become too broad and we say things like “you Father you know my needs or you know their needs” when we pray. It feels like I’m giving lip service to fill a discipleship checkbox when I reflect back on these times.

We all go through ups and downs in every phase of spiritual discipline, but focused prayer needs to remain at the fore. I am buoyed in my faith when individuals pray specific prayers for me. I’m not talking about someone saying they are going to do it, these are in-person, focused, spirit guided intercessory prayers.

I am guilty of not feeling the need for getting prayer, even though I often prayed 1-1 with and for people. Now that this has become a regular practice in my life, I can’t imagine why I would not desire and seek out these opportunities. When someone asks if you need prayer – tell them yes. Don’t be afraid or think you don’t need it – we all need focused intercessory prayer.

These are the musings of a disciple of Christ simply trying to make sense of life by intentionally communicating with God. The intent is to give you points to ponder in 250 words or less, not closed ended teachings. React, interact and communicate with me and others as we live life intentionally and appreciate how God made each of us unique.