It is simply impossible to lead, without the aid of prayer, a virtuous life.
–Saint John Chrysostom
Why do you pray? There are simple reasons. Prayer is calming, centering, refreshing. There are more complex reasons as well. Prayer builds your relationship with God — spending time in mutual love and care. Prayer can reveal our inmost desires — we begin to see what our prayer illuminates within us. Prayer helps us align our will with God’s will — beginning to better understand what He wants for our lives.
Whether or not our reasons are clear, prayer is central as we grow in virtue.
Comment below with your thoughts:
Have you seen changes in yourself and your life through prayer? Are there virtues you are asking God to help you form? How do you center your life around prayer?
or, simply answer:
Did you pray today?
Over time, I’ve become a much more calm and centered person because of prayer. I have inner peace the world cannot give. And I’m more thankful too. Prayer changes everything.
I totally agree, my anxiety and response to frightening situations has completely changed as a result of prayer and the peace it gives me to rest on His shoulders.
Ever since I found BIS, I have been spending time reflecting on the daily readings. I have always prayed daily, but not necessarily with God’s word. I have found since I have been spending more time with Jesus, especially 1 John which rocked my world last week, I have been calmer with my husband and more joyful at work. It has been so nice to slowly begin to dive into God’s word with the help of the BIS writers.
Through prayer, I am less anxious and feel more of God’s strength in me.