Conversation vs "the genie in the lamp"

Praying isn't about getting things,

it is about open communication with our Lord.

We shouldn't just be praying in times of need with our lists, but conversationally about anything and everything. 

Conversation vs "the genie in the lamp"

If we are truly honest with ourselves we have prayed the "lamp prayer" at least one or twice.

Our prayer would basically be like rubbing the lamp, hoping a genie will appear and grant our wish.

As we grow and mature in our faith and in our relationship with Christ we should be maturing in our prayer life as well. 

As we communicate with God about many things other than our "to do" or "wish" lists...I think it changes our expectations of His "wish granting". 

Instead our mindset is that of a conversation with someone who cares deeply for us and our well-being. Someone who was willing to die for us. But also someone who is just, righteous, not just placating a whining child.

We need to come to Him with, "What can I give You?" "What can I do for You!?" Rather than "Why aren't You doing this?" or "fixing that?".

As we grow and mature our focus in our daily lives should reflect that maturity.

 📖  But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Matthew 6:33 (NLT)

I believe we come to a certain stage in our prayer life when our daily life is our prayer. We commune with God on many different levels.

It also shows maturity in our trust relationship.

We have a deep trust that God has all things and keeps us in His care.

📖 I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.  Psalm 121

This isn't to say we  do not take an opportunity to speak specific prayers because we are called to pray for specifics as well.

📖 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God Philippians 4:6

As we grow and mature our thoughts and actions reflect our trust in God, and walking and living and breathing in trust is a living prayer.

📖 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

We can not be on our knees with our hands lifted and our eyes closed all the time, "pray continually", to me, means our entire being and life should be our prayer conversation with our Lord and Savior.

🙏My prayer for you always is that you have a contstant communication with our God. That you aren't giving Him a list and then living in disappointment because He hasn't checked off the items. That you feel His continual presence. That you fully trust in His grace for every moment of your life regardless of what circumstances you are in. He loves you and has the best for you!❤️

📖 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11(NLT)

📖 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 (NLT)