As we go to pray, it is important to begin by looking at God.  What a novel though, eh?  While that may sound like a “no brainer,” all too often it is not the posture of praying people.

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It is not uncommon for people to come to the Lord with nothing but their issues on their minds.  The problems they are concerned about so clouds their vision they really can’t see anything else.  This makes it really hard to pray in faith.  A sense of despair over a situation can very quickly choke out any sense of confidence in the Lord.

Would it not be better to start our praying by looking at God?  Would it not be helpful to begin by focusing on His character and ability?  What kind of boost would one’s faith get by focusing on the One who is not only willing to engage our problems, but actually has the ability to resolve them?

One of the best ways I have found to do this is by starting my prayer time with giving praise to the Lord.  This forces me to look at God and consider who He is to me, and who I am to Him.  As the vision of His greatness begins to dawn on my heart and mind, whatever is troubling me suddenly doesn’t seem as big and scary anymore.  It really helps to put things into their proper perspective.

I wonder if this is why Jesus taught us to pray “Hallowed by Your Name?”  The Lord’s Name is not just a handle by which He is addressed.  His Name defines His character.  His Name reveals what can be expected of Him. 

I encourage you to try it during your next prayer time.  Look right up at the Lord and begin to talk to Him about who He is.  “Father, You are great and greatly to be praised.  There is no one like You!  You are strong and mighty.  You are the stronghold and victory of Your people!”  It won’t take long and your faith will begin to soar.  Then you will be truly ready to interact with the Lord in prayer.

MD