April 21

Our Prayer Life

Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. — Dan 6:10 BSB

The chosen hour. It was at the moment when Daniel's enemies seemed to have succeeded—“when the writing was signed”—that this brave statesman knelt down, prayed, and gave thanks to God. There are times when prayer is the only way through our difficulties. George Müller once said: “Our very weakness gives opportunity for the power of the Lord Jesus Christ to be manifested. The greater the weakness, the nearer He is to manifest His strength; the greater our need, the more reason to rely on Him to prove Himself our Friend. In over seventy years of experience, the greater the trial, the nearer the Lord's help. More prayer, more faith, more patience will bring the blessing. Therefore, our task is to pour out our hearts before Him; help in His own time and way is sure to come.”

The chosen direction. “His windows were open towards Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, where the Holy Temple stood, the place where God promised to meet His people. When we pray, our hearts must be turned toward our blessed Lord, who intercedes for us in Heaven, mixing the incense of His prayers with ours (Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 8:3).

The chosen attitude. “He kneeled upon his knees.” It is fitting to kneel before God in worship, as Paul did, even when he was in chains (Ephesians 3:14). But we can also pray as we walk, sit, or ride. Nehemiah sent a quick prayer to God before answering the king's question, but he also prayed night and day. Let us develop the habit of praying three times a day. At evening, morning, and noon, let God hear your voice.

Prayer

We bless You, O Lord, and seek to serve You as the hosts of heaven do. May we pray and praise You without ceasing, glorifying Your perfect love. Amen.