Last week I talked to you about the importance of a quiet time. Staying in touch with God on a daily basis is critical to the Christian life. Often times, people say to me they have a hard time praying.  Let me share with you a well known,  but very effective formula for your prayer life. It is built around the word “ACTS.”

“A” stands for adoration.  It is important for us to remember He is God…..we are not.    No matter what is happening in our life, He deserves our praise and honor.  Our prayer should begin with that praise.

The “C” stands for confession.  The Bible teaches clearly that we are to confess our sins before the Lord.  This also helps us keep in perspective our relationship to Him as sinners who are saved by grace.

The “T” stands for thanksgiving.  We are quick to ask for things, but slow to give thanks for what God has done in our life.  The scripture says “in everything give thanks.” Showing our gratitude to the Lord is an admission, even though we  might be in the midst of tough times, that we trust Him for the victory.

The “S” stands for supplication.   After we have given Him praise and we have confessed our sin and given thanks, we then bring our requests unto God. He encourages us to do that. Sometimes He will say yes, sometimes he will say no, sometimes He will say wait. Whatever the case, an effective prayer life will help us in our daily life.

Prayer does make a difference. The hundreds of people who pray with their prayer partners weekly in our prayer ministry, Prayer on the Edge, make a tremendous difference for the life of our fellowship.  If you are not a part of that, I would encourage you to get involved.  It is a great way to get close to Him.