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Have you ever
prayed at some point in your life? Most
of us have. The question is- why? G-d
doesn't need the nudging, or the ego stroke. He
doesn't need us to remind Him of our difficulties. And
since G-d already knows what's good for us, why doesn't He just give us what
we need like any parent does?
Prayer is not
for G-d; When we pray, we change, and are ready to receive G-d's gifts.
Here's how it
works:
"Karov
Hashem Lichol Korav- Lichol Asher Yikriuhu Biemes"- G-d is close to all
who call upon Him- to all who call upon Him in truth (Tehillim 145)
5 STEPS TO
GENUINE PRAYER
1. Feel G-d's
presence. You are talking to a loving, all-powerful Being who wants to give
you everything that's good. All over the world G-d is answering prayers
because He loves His children.
2. Expect
results. G-d has track record. If you don't really believe G-d can and will
help you, you're not really praying.
3. Pay
attention to what G-d is teaching you. Everything that happens is for your
good. if you are in need, realize that G-d is teaching you something. If you
trust Him, you will hear what He is telling you.
4. Get in touch
with what you're really after. Know your bottom line. You're talking to the
awesome Creator, so don't ask for nonsense. He wants you to grow up.
5. Being
serious about what you're praying for means that you're doing everything you
can to make it happen. G-d will lend a hand only when you put in the effort.
He'll never take away your independence because that's His ultimate gift to
you.
HELPFUL
EXERCIES:
1. Learn from
your successes. Remember a time when you prayer was answered. What made your
prayer genuine and real?
2. Write down
100 blessings G-d has granted in your lifetime. Identify your top 10.
Appreciate how much G-d loves you and has given you already. Share your list
with a friend.
3. Think of a
time when you felt G-d's guiding hand in your life. What was the message? How
did it change you? What is the message that G-d is sensing you now?
4. Be aware of
life's meaning and beauty. Spend some time every day searching for it.
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