Hey *|FNAME|*,

How’s your prayer life? Up and down? Off and on? I’ve posted several times on prayer. All of us on this journey know how important prayer is…which doesn’t mean we’re always good at it. This week, I wanted to provide some simple tips on prayer that look to be very helpful.  My wife gets weekly emails from YouVersion, which you can be found at  https://www.youversion.com. It’s homepage states, “Find your rhythm. Draw closer to God”. Here’s their September 19th email post, which although very simple, is very insightful. It reads as follows:

Not sure what to pray for?

Talking to God doesn’t always feel easy, but if we want to know God more, then we need to know how to talk humbly and honestly with Him.
Here are three things that may encourage you as you draw near to God through prayer. Pick one or two points that stand out to you, and use them to create a Prayer in YouVersion.

1. Keep it simple.

God isn’t concerned about how eloquent your words sound—He just wants to spend time with you. Some of the best conversations with God happen when you simply share what’s on your mind and then give Him the space to respond.
Try asking:
God, what should I do about … ?
God, what do You think about … ?
God, would You … ?
God, why did this … ?

2. Keep it real.

God isn’t going to get mad at you for being honest, so be authentic when you pray. Remember, nothing can separate you from God’s love. So if you’re not sure what to say, tell God that. If you’re frustrated about a situation, say so. He wants you to approach Him with confidence and boldness.
Talk to God about a concern you have right now. Try saying:
I’m struggling with…
I need help with…
I don’t understand why…
I’m frustrated because…

3. Keep showing up.

Praying might feel awkward at first, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. This week, continue to make prayer a habit by having at least a 5 minute conversation with God every day.
Here are some conversation starters:
I’m hoping for…
I’m thankful for…
I’m excited because…
Today, I noticed…

There’s nothing God desires more than you being in relationship with Him. And here’s the 

thing…there’s nothing that’s going to contribute more to your Peace, Joy, and Fulfillment. 

As always, please feel free to contact me at Mark@MarkJosephMinistries.com with questions, comments, concerns, challenges, or prayer requests.  

God Bless you on your Path to Peace, Joy, and Fulfillment!!!

Remember…God made you for GREATNESS!!!