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Just Ask.
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" Lord, teach us to pray,"
- Luke 11:1 (NIV)
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Hello Reader,
It's wonderful to have you here today as you explore a small piece of Scripture and discover how to integrate it into your life.
I have previously mentioned the power of prayer, and today we will revisit this topic because it is essential in our lives and the world at large.
Prayer has the energy to change your life profoundly. Beyond mere meditation, it serves as a vital connection to our loving God, opening the door to transformation and deep spiritual growth.
We need to embrace this practice and discover the profound impact it can have on your journey.
The Apostles were always curious about why Jesus would often go off by himself and pray for hours. They wanted to understand the significance and power of prayer.
Simply asking Jesus allowed them to experience profound prayer and an intimate relationship with our loving God and Father.
All they needed to do was ask, and that's all you need to do, too.
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A Little History...
This moment takes place as Jesus is modeling a lifestyle of prayer.
His disciples often saw him withdraw to pray and noticed the intimacy and power that characterized His relationship with the Father.
In response, one disciple asks what many of us still wonder: “Lord, teach us to pray.”
This request echoes a desire to recite words and understand the heart behind prayer—how to connect meaningfully with God.
It leads directly into Jesus teaching them the greatest prayer of all time (Luke 11: 2-4) offering a framework of worship, surrender, daily reliance, forgiveness, and spiritual protection.
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How to Apply It To Your Life...
Cultivate a Teachable Spirit Like the disciples, we must humbly admit that we don't know everything about prayer. Asking Jesus to teach us shows a heart open to learning, growing, and deepening in relationship with God.
Apply It: Begin your prayer time by simply saying, “Lord, teach me to pray today.” Let go of needing the “right words” and be willing to learn through Scripture, silence, and even struggles.
Make Prayer Intentional, Not Occasional The disciples didn’t ask for a miracle lesson—they asked to learn how to pray. This emphasizes how vital prayer is in spiritual growth. Intentional time with God aligns our hearts with His will.
Apply It: Set aside a consistent time each day (even 5 minutes) for undistracted prayer. Over time, this daily rhythm will build a strong spiritual foundation, even during chaotic seasons.
Learn by Watching Jesus The disciples were inspired to pray because they saw Jesus praying. His example led them to seek their own deeper prayer life. Today, we still learn how to pray by studying His life, especially in the Gospels.
Apply It: Read a Gospel passage each week and notice how Jesus prays—whether He’s giving thanks, grieving, or surrendering to the Father. Let His example shape the tone and focus of your prayers.
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Let's Pray Together...
Dearest Lord Jesus, In a world aching with sorrow and noise, draw me into the stillness of Your presence.
Teach my heart to pray—not with eloquence, but with sincerity.
Let every breath be a whisper of trust, every word a reaching for Your love.
Quiet the chaos within me, and let my soul find rest in communion with You.
Strip away the distractions, that I may speak to You as my closest friend—freely, thoroughly, and faithfully.
In Your mercy and grace, teach me to pray. Amen.
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Let's Sum It All Up...
Prayer is a time to open up and simply be with God.
By embracing the teachings of Jesus, we unlock the transformative power of prayer—a practice that calls us to engage with heartfelt honesty, deep emotion, and steadfast integrity.
Let us be inspired to pray with sincerity and passion, allowing our faith to guide us in every moment.
Prayer should be a cherished part of your life, not a task to complete.
It should feel as natural as talking to your best friend, where you can share your needs and seek guidance to lead a truly blessed life.
Always carry my prayers with you. Please remember to pray for me as I strive to grow this letter and inspire more people to live by God's Word.
I hope you have a blessed day and week out there.
Quentin
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Quentin Schappa
Discipleship Bible Coach
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