Prayer can become a way of life for the Christian.

“Be joyful always; PRAY CONTINUALLY; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

How can we “pray continually”? Do we have to stay on our knees all the time or constantly repeat phrases of adoration or petition? Of course not. The Bible has in mind a life so closely in touch with Jesus that we feel free to speak to Him anytime, anywhere.

“There is no time or place in which it is inappropriate to offer up a petition to God. There is nothing that can prevent us from lifting up our hearts in the spirit of earnest prayer. In the crowds of the street, in the midst of a business engagement, we may send up a petition to God and plead for divine guidance. . . . We should have the door of the heart open continually and our invitation going up that Jesus may come and abide as a heavenly guest in the soul.”—Steps to Christ, p. 99.

One of the best ways to develop this kind of intimate relationship is to learn to meditate as we pray.

“May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the LORD.”
—Psalm 104:34.

“Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them.”
—1 Timothy 4:15, KJV.

“But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.”
—Psalm 1:2.

Don’t just rush through a list of requests when you pray. Stick around. Listen. A little prayerful reflection can greatly enrich your relationship with God.

“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
—James 4:8.

The closer we come to Jesus, the more we’re able to experience His presence. So keep within speaking distance of Jesus, never beyond the reach of His influence. Don’t worry about saying the right words. Just talk honestly and openly. Talk about everything. He’s gone through the agony of death itself in order to become your Intimate Friend.