An Important Secret

Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”

Luke 11:1 (ESV)

I remember in my early twenties, a very good friend invited me to a meeting at her church about financial success. A businessman was scheduled to speak and share practical strategies for success. After the meeting, he made himself available to answer all the personal questions. Most of the attendees, in one way or another, asked the same question: "How can I be successful?" Their question wasn't general; it was more related to their personal circumstances. This man had an answer for each of them.

One thing struck me. We were all Christians, the speaker was too, and yet, only one person had asked the question that interested me: How can I be successful according to God's will? These days, success is a major goal for many. They are willing to make sacrifices to participate in programs that supposedly teach them how to succeed in life. They are willing to pay a high price for advice on success. Those who cannot afford to attend these programs and conferences read countless books to discover the paths to success. They admire those they consider role models and try to emulate them.

The Bible tells us that Jesus prayed often. Undoubtedly, his way of praying touched the hearts of his disciples. They longed to be like him. They knew that John had taught his disciples and desired to receive that same teaching. As Christians, we should all know how to pray. Why? Because not only is it an important part of a believer's life, but Jesus Himself said that sometimes our prayers go unanswered because we pray incorrectly. It is time for you to enter God's presence and ask Him to teach you to pray according to His heart. This is the secret to success.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.