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The prayer: simplicity instead of burden
The Epistle to the Hebrews says that we are to cast off every burden that hinders our progress: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every burden and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with perseverance in the race that is yet before us" (Hebrews 12,1 Eg).
This biblical admonition is easier said than carried out. Burdens and burdens can be diverse and hinder our progress. When we share our struggles with other Christians, we often get answers like: We'll pray about it or I'll think about you! These words come easily from the lips. Talking is one thing, living by it is another. I have noticed that no part of spiritual transformation is easy.
Our loads can be compared to luggage. Anyone who has traveled, especially with children, knows how stressful it can be to transport luggage through an airport. There are luggage cart wheels that won't stay on track and bags that slip off your shoulder while the kids go to the bathroom and are hungry afterwards. You often think to yourself: If only I had packed less!
Ideas about how to pray can also become burdens that we carry around like heavy bags. It is often emphasized that one should pray for a certain amount of time or that the correct posture and choice of words are important when praying. Do you also feel burdened by such ideas?
Have you ever thought that we have missed the true meaning of prayer? Does God really provide a list of rules that we must follow in order for our prayer to be acceptable? The Bible gives us a clear answer to this: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4,6).
The first question of the “Westminster Shorter Catechism,” a 17th-century creed, is: “What is the primary purpose of man? The answer to that is: man's main purpose is to glorify God and to enjoy him eternally." David put it this way: "You show me the way of life; joy is in your sight, and joy is at your right hand for ever" (Psalm 16,11).
One of my favorite pastimes is drinking tea, especially when I can enjoy it the British way - with delicious cucumber sandwiches and small tea scones. I like to imagine sitting with God over tea, talking to him about life and enjoying his closeness. With this mindset, I can put aside the heavy bag of preconceived notions about prayer.
I am learning to relax in prayer and find rest in Jesus. I remember the words of Jesus: “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden; I want to refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; then you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11,28-29).
Don't make prayer a burden. It is actually a simple decision to spend time with the one you love: Jesus Christ. Carry your baggage, your burdens and burdens to Jesus and remember not to take them back with you when you have finished the conversation. By the way, Jesus is always ready to talk to you.
by Tammy Tkach
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