Pray Without Ceasing

Kris TaylorAugust 2023 WOF, PrayerLeave a Comment

One of the topics I speak on frequently is prayer. I have found most people spend little time in prayer. For as long as I can remember, ministers described the proper method of praying as spending 30–60 minutes a day in uninterrupted prayer. I agree it would be awesome if our schedules would accommodate that pattern.

However, in the busyness of our lives, we don’t always have time to apply that method of prayer. And it ends up that people feel guilty because they have neglected what they know is important. Many years ago, I found myself in that situation. I even apologized to God because my routine did not always allow me to spend that much uninterrupted time with God.

The Lord gave me information that I have ministered to people around the world. He brought several scriptures to me that I want to share with you.

First Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV) says, “Pray without ceasing.” The NIV says, “Pray continually.” Ephesians 6:18 (NLT), “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion.” Romans 12:12 (KJV), “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.” The New Century Version says it this way: “Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times.”

As I looked at these scriptures, I realized if we could not pray all the time, the Word would not encourage us to follow those instructions. I realized that my father-in-law, Brother Hagin, practiced this continually. On occasion, he would come into my office, engaging in a conversation. As I was replying to his question, I would see his lips moving. At first I thought, “How rude. He is not listening to my answer.” But I realized because we were talking about decisions and projects that needed to be accomplished, he was listening to my answer but also praying about them as well.

I realized it was possible to pray at all times and while you were doing other things. So I set out to practice what the Word instructed us to do. For years, I have followed a routine I want to share with you. It will help you realize you can pray an hour or more each day.

I begin my morning praying the moment I get up. While I am getting ready, I am praying at the same time. I pray for my family and for anything I need an answer for. I thank God for His goodness that He has bestowed upon me. And finally I say, “Father, lead me and guide me today. Help me to be sensitive to your voice. And whatever decisions I must make, I believe You will show me the right one.”

I pray while I am driving to work. From the time I awake and get to my office, I have spent two hours in prayer while doing other things. Again, another word of wisdom my father-in-law would say is: “Stay in an attitude of prayer and connecting to God at all times.” One of the keys I have found in instantly connecting with the Lord is to play praise and worship music as I am getting ready and praying.

I pray while I am driving to work. From the time I awake and get to my office, I have spent two hours in prayer while doing other things. Again, another word of wisdom my father-in-law would say is: “Stay in an attitude of prayer and connecting to God at all times.” One of the keys I have found in instantly connecting with the Lord is to play praise and worship music as I am getting ready and praying.

Many times, I find a song that addresses whatever I’m praying about. I love a song that David Ingles wrote: Part of the lyrics says: “My confidence is great in the Lord. Because I believe in God’s Word, I’m going forth and doing great exploits. My confidence is great in the Lord. I’ll keep meditating day and night. I’ll continue fighting the good fight. I’ll observe to do God’s Word and all that’s written there. To revelation truth I’ll be aware. My confidence is great in the Lord.”*

The Lord often gives me assignments I can’t do in my ability. I will play this song over and over and declare, “My confidence is great in the Lord.”

People often ask, “How do you manage everything you do?” My answer is always, “I could never do it in my ability, but every day I rely on God’s ability.” Remember, whatever you need—God’s got it. The task ahead of you is never greater than the force of God holding you up. Rest in Him! Stay in communication with the Lord at all times. He will lead, guide, and strengthen you and give you the wisdom and ability to navigate your life every moment of the day.


*My Confidence Is Great in the Lord, © 1991, David Ingles Music SESAC

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Lynette Hagin

Lynette Hagin

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