Prayer

I have been thinking about the amazing power of prayer recently. I enjoyed Mary's experience she shared about prayer (click here to read her comment if you haven't had a chance to yet) And have also had some recent great experiences with the power of prayer.

I have read and reflected on the Bible Dictionary's definition of prayer for years.

As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are his children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7: 7-11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship... The object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them. Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work, and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings. - Bible Dictionary

I love this definition for many different reasons, and want to hear your thoughts about it as well! Once we understand our relationship with our Father in Heaven, it becomes natural for us to call on him through prayer. I have found that this is true for myself, and I forget it at times. I can just pray to him and he will be there, what a wonderful blessing!

Also, I have come to understand the power of praying for others. As Seth and I had a pretty rough month of August, many close family and friends said they were praying for us and had put our name on the temple Prayer Roll. It hasn't been since my mission since I have felt that distinct strong power of other's prayers for me (and Seth). I know of it's strengthening and comforting power to lift another's soul during trials and afflictions/sickness.

So my question/thoughts I'd like to hear comments about.... what are some experiences you've had with prayer?
What are your thoughts about this communication tool we have with our Father in Heaven?
How has prayer helped strengthen your family and companionship with your spouse?
What's the most difficult part about prayer? How can we overcome those difficulties?


(And I tag Tim for the next week's thought/lesson)

Lets use this blog in a little different way . . .

Ever have one of those little personal revelation moments (As mary shared in the comments under the very first blog), or a little thought come to mine. Or you hear a good quote or idea and we could all benefit from it!?! Please do post . . . Let us know if you don't know how to post a comment or to post a new message. (mohartley@gmail.com or noesterle@gmail.com )

We also thought about whoever posts the lesson can "tag" the next person to post the weekly lesson. If the person you tag doesn't check the blog often or doesn't even know about it, you're in charge of really making sure they got the message. If they don't know how to post or anything, try having them email it to you to post it for them or explain how. . . . does that work? I don't think this whole thing should be an annoyance to anyone at all, so don't feel pressured! I've been trying to think of something to post for this week's little thought/lesson and it's a lot harder than I thought. But I will try to come up with something! Thanks for your support guys . . . we just need feedback and hope it kind of works in a covenient way to bring the family together since we all live so far apart!! Love you all!