Tuesday, "Draw closer to God in prayer"

BIBLE READING: James 4.8
                      
In seeking God’s help, we need to spend time alone with God.  James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…”
           Knowing God and being able to talk to Him will give meaning and purpose to our existence.  God truly loves us. (Romans 8:38-39)  He is always there, his hand outstretched, waiting for us to seek Him.  He has so much to give us and wants the opportunity to do so. Matthew 7:11 tells us, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him.”
Spending time in prayer is one way to be alone with God.   Our Lord spent much time alone in prayer communing with God.  Many times He withdrew into the mountains to pray and rest.  Read the following verses: Matthew14:23; Mark 6:46; Luke5:16; 6:12; 9:18 and 9:28. 
In prayer we can communicate to God our innermost thoughts, needs, desires and thanksgivings.  We are to “Pray without ceasing.”  (I Thessalonians5:17) “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossian 4:2)
Talking with God will help you to feel closer to Him and rely on Him for all things, knowing that “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”  James 5:16(b)
Read the words to this song we sing.
“Closer to Thee”
Closer to Thee, Near to thy side, Closer, Dear Lord, I would abide;
Hold me in Thy embrace, ‘Neath every smile of grace,
Grant me, Thy child, a place closer to Thee.

Closer to Thee, near to Thy breast, Closer to Thee, Lord let me rest;
Guide me when I would stray, Keep me from sin each day,
Draw me, dear Lord, I pray, Closer to Thee.
Prayer Requests: ____________________________________________________________


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