Oak Hill Church of Christ 11-10-24 Message: "Hip Pocket Prayer"

Oak Hill Church of Christ preaching minister, Randy Sterling, delivers a message on the importance of creating a relationship with God through prayer.

There are many reasons to pray, and even nonbelievers are known to pray from time to time. Usually, the focus of the prayer is around something that's happening to us. We pray because there's something we want done. Whether it's struggles with work, relationships, money, or an unexpected flat tire, even the fellow who rarely, if ever, enters a church still asks for help.

Jesus displays for us a different sort of prayer relationship. Jesus prays to God as part of an ongoing dialog between father and son. Jesus prays for everyone and about everything. When Jesus prays, he doesn't have to remind God who he is, because he knows that the relationship he has with God is strong; it's a daily connection.

Jesus wants that prayer relationship for us as well. God was never tired of Jesus' prayers, and he won't ever be tired of ours. Jesus' example shows us that prayer is less like offering God a Christmas wish list and more like a conversation.

This week, consider becoming familiar with God in your prayers. Respect Him; acknowledge His power and supremacy; but, also, remember that you are His child. Reach out to God to share with Him more than your to-do list. Open your heart to Him, and welcome Him in.