4 steps to improve your prayer time: PRAY

FILE -- Praying hands (iStock)

P - Pause

Too often we rush through our prayer time as if it were an item on our to-do list. In order to turn our individual prayer time into a true conversation with the Lord, we must BE STILL and give Him time to answer.

- “Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act.”(Psalm 37:7)

R - Remember who Jesus is

As you pray, remember that you are speaking to the Creator and King of the Universe

- “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him.” (Colossians 1:16)

A - Ask Him for help

Keep in mind that we should all strive to become more like Jesus. As we pray, we should ask the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts to desire things that are pleasing to God.

-  “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:13-14)

Y - Yield control of your situation to Jesus

Trust God’s goodness and His timing by truly offering Him control of your circumstances.

-  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)