I used to have a friend who would wait for you to get done saying something, just so he could tell you what was already on his mind. His words would always come off feeling empty, pre-planned, and impersonal.
Do you have anyone in your life who only talks at you instead of with you?
Prayer gets frustrating when we do that with God. And yet, many of us wonder why our prayer life feels flat, like we’re leaving voicemails with God and hoping for a callback.
Here’s a wild idea: what if prayer is supposed to be a messy conversation?
That means asking questions — real ones — and even changing the question if it’s not getting an answer. Not because God’s dodging you or not understanding you, but because maybe it’s you who is learning to think and talk the way God does — the way He designed you to.
For example, instead of:
“Why is this happening?”
Try:
“What perspective do You want me to see about this situation?”
“Where are You in this moment right now?”
“What are You trying to reveal to me about who You or who I am?”
And here’s another thought: talk to each person of the Trinity — the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Talk to them like they’re real people, sitting with you. (Because they are.)
Talk to the Heavenly Father like you would a caring and compassionate Dad — who could win any street fight or deal with any bully. (Matthew 6.9)
Speak with Jesus like you would your friend who understands your thoughts and emotions, because he felt and thought the same things. (John 15.15)
Listen for the Holy Spirit, who is your daily counselor and care-giver — who will lead and guide you into healthy, life-giving thoughts, actions, and words. (John 14.26)
Prayer isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about getting real and assuming the best about a God who loves you, loves to respond to you, and cares deeply about your every care.
So this week, ask yourself: What’s one new question I could ask God this week — and which member of the Trinity could I ask it to?
God bless —
Nathan
