More than Words

While words are important in any kind of communication, they are not always necessary in prayer.  Prayer is a spiritual communication God has ordained enabling us and Him to experience a depth in our relationship that would otherwise be impossible.  It is one of those things about which we can read, but which is best learned about through disciplined practice.  Practice may not always mean perfection, but in the case of prayer, it does keep us pointed in that direction.  A sense of "never arriving" is common to those who take prayer seriously. 

 

Sometimes we suddenly find ourselves being aware that the Spirit of God is sweeping over and into our lives.  He comes in a way that speaks not of our intentional seeking, but of His seeking of us.  Without us breathing any prayer words or expressing any desire for His presence, He suddenly shows up in a way that leaves us aware only of His presence.  Surely, such is as much a moment of prayer as any we might initiate.  Is it not true that prayer has a door which can be opened at both ends?  One door is at our end and the other end is at the place where God's hand reaches. 

 

The Word is clear that we are to understand Him as a seeking God. The father figure who looks for the prodigal son to return and runs to greet him serves as our best illustration of this truth.  We do not often think of this seeking God as one who opens the door to initiate a moment of presence with us.  Maybe we are too busy to realize it is happening.  Maybe the door at our end is so closed that our hearts cannot be aware He is just on the other side of the one opened by our hand.  "Listen!  I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me."  (Revelation 3:20)