At its most basic level, prayer is communicating with God. God wants us to interact with Him, and it is essential for a growing, healthy relationship with God.

There are four primary aspects of prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication (ACTS)

• Adoration – prayer that praises God for His majestic greatness and merciful compassion (Psalm 145:1-21).
• Confession – prayer that agrees fully with God about our sin (1 John 1:9).
• Thanksgiving – prayer that expresses joyful gratitude to God for His spiritual, relational, and tangible blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
• Supplication – prayer that requests something from God, asking Him to help us or others as we pursue opportunities or face obstacles in life (1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:6-7).

Communication with God is not a one way street.  Listening to God is as important as speaking to Him.  The Bible is the core of God’s communication with us, but God guides our understanding in specific ways as we enjoy His presence through prayer.

In John 14:26, Jesus shared this with His disciples, “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.”

Remember that God’s Spirit will guide us in harmony with God’s Word while putting the spotlight on God’s Son.