As a Christian homemaker my relationship with Christ is of the utmost importance. Without God, there is no way I could live one moment, much less accomplish all that is required of me each day. Life is full of triumphs and victories, but with each joyous occasion comes hardships and trials that will challenge our faith to its very core. I find great comfort in knowing there is a greater being who will never disappoint or let me down. Learning how to pray with J.O.Y. has allowed me to grow closer to the Lord, further enabling me to be the wife and mother God has called me to be.
The art of biblical homemaking can only come from a solid relationship with the Lord. The next step is to cultivate an active prayer life. Prayer is a wonderful way to insure the pathways to Christ are kept active and viable. Prayers to our Heavenly Father should be said consistently and on a daily basis. We can read in scripture, many times, where Jesus and other godly men and women prayed with diligence and commitment. Prayer should notbe a last resort, but a constant extension of our worship unto God.
Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)
Prayer does not have to be a complicated process. It should simply be a gentle, yet focused conversation with the Lord. I have an easy acronym that I like to use to help with planning my prayer time which helps me to keep it a priority. I have heard several prayer acronyms over the years, but the one I like the best is ‘praying with J.O.Y’. Praying in a specific order assures us that we bring honor and glory to God first, the needs of others next, and ourselves last. The letters for the prayer guide I use stand for Jesus, Others, and Yourself.
3 Easy Steps to Keep Prayer a Priority
- Jesus: If it were not for Jesus dying on the cross we would notbe able to send our prayers to God. We should always send our praises of thanksgiving to Him. During my prayer time, I graciously send my appreciation heavenward for the many blessings He has bestowed upon me, recognizing many of them specifically. We are sinful creatures who owe Jesus a debt of gratitude from saving us from eternal damnation, the least we can do is thank Him for all His provisions.
"Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34 (KJV)
- Others: We should put others before ourselves. There are many needs in our world; salvation, healing, strength, courage and protection to name a few. The hurts of this fallen world are great and everyonecould use a prayer spoken on their behalf. It is an honor and privilege to pray for believers and unbelievers alike. It is a very special and intimate way we can serve family, friends, as well as those we don’t even know. Fortunately, God does know each and every one of us and He has called us to bring allour cares unto Him.
"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16 (KJV)
- Yourself: Finally, we can and shouldpray for ourselves. The first words spoken in regards to my personal needs is for repentance from sins that often plague me, I pray that God would lead and direct my day, and that I would be in-tune to the opportunities He provides for me each day to serve Him. In regards to my homemaking pursuits; my prayer is that I would accomplish all that He would have me to do each day, as well as to accept the things I cannot.
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Philippians 4:6 (KJV)
"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalms 46:10 (KJV)
"Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:29-30 (KJV)
With Love & Hope,
Jennifer
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