Make the Call

Communication is vital in all our relationships—especially our most important relationship.

My wife and daughter recently visited friends and family in another state. We stayed in touch through phone calls, texts, emails and Facebook.

Human relationships are largely built and sustained by communication. Whether it is with family, friends, a spouse or coworkers, proper communication strengthens our bonds with one another. Communicating lovingly and effectively provides the framework for a relationship’s endurance.

Higher communication

The value of effective communication extends to our relationship with God as well. Our God is accessible, instantaneously, through prayer. Yet how often do we engage our Creator? How often do we share our concerns, our thoughts and our dreams with our Heavenly Father? How often do we consult Him for guidance and instruction?

Note this expectation: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). “In everything” denotes a recurring, habitual activity. Christians are likewise encouraged to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Throughout His ministry, Jesus provided a pattern of active, ongoing prayer (Mark 1:35). Christ spent much of His last night on earth praying to the Father. Among His final instructions that evening Jesus included this admonishment, “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation” (Matthew 26:41, emphasis added). It is evident that prayer is a crucial element of a Christian’s spiritual armor and is essential for survival (Ephesians 6:18).

Developing consistency in prayer brings “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” into our lives (Philippians 4:7). Effectual prayer enhances our relationship with God and serves to remind us of God’s presence and availability.

Daniel’s example of prayer

Consider the example of Daniel. Forbidden by royal decree to pray under penalty of death, Daniel immediately sought out his Friend, Guide, Mentor, Ruler and God.

“Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days” (Daniel 6:10). With his most important relationship intact, Daniel could face persecution and trials in peace.

Healthy communication with God edifies, strengthens and builds a foundation for a solid, lasting relationship. We are blessed to have an indestructible, portable communication device called prayer. Make the call!

Jason Hyde attends the Louisville, Kentucky, congregation with his wife, Emily, and daughter, Ava.