I wrote this piece more than a year ago, and growth in self-awareness has made me realize that this is a topic peculiar to perfectionists. So yeah, this might not be relatable for some. think sometimes as believers when we are in a down moment, we don’t pray because of the unhealthy ways we see or understand prayer.
We might see the action as something to check off of our task lists or a part of our daily routine.
On one hand, a structured routine that helps us commune with God is a good thing, it helps with stability and consistency. But sometimes, the line between having a structured prayer regimen, and seeing prayer as a chore/task is not as obvious.
When worldly cares start to weigh heavy on us, there is a tendency to separate what one is going through from the act of fellowshipping with God. Like you don’t even have the strength of going through the motions and activities with God.
But that’s the thing.
Prayer is not going through the motions or the routine. Prayer is communicating with your Father, whether it’s perfect or not. Speaking to God on what you’re going through and how you’re feeling is prayer.
I for one love a structured prayer time. It helps me focus. Sometimes it comes easy, sometimes I push myself to do it, sometimes the strength seems nowhere to be found. And God is teaching me that prayer is not just me getting the settings right, choosing a specific time, with a specific course of progression. He is teaching me that I don’t have to wait to get the structure right before I start communicating with Him; the communication line is always open!