Meditative Prayer

By far, my favorite way to pray when alone.

Prayer is a sacred time to express ourselves to our Father in Heaven. He somehow runs the entire universe, yet has the power to know each of His creations. He knows how we feel, what we think, and how many hairs on our head. He is not constrained to an instance of linear time and space like we are right now. His power is all around us, and in us. We have the God-given ability to call Him 24/7 and pour out our hearts. He waits for our call.

Due to daily stress, prayers can often get rushed, repetitious, and shallow. Going through the motions rather than truly connecting. That is how I was feeling. I wanted a more attentive way to pray. Many years ago when I was dealing with anxiety, I used self-meditation as a way to beat it. Why not use it for prayer? It would not work for group settings but should allow me to connect better solo.

Understanding prayer as, praying to Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Ghost. I sit or lie down in a safe place where I would not be disturbed. Then relax my body from head to toe. Clear my mind from the daily chaos with deep slow breathing. Then pray. I fell asleep the first couple of times at this point. Remembering to keep myself awake and aware, was key.

I had to consciously relearn to think clearly with heartfelt intention. Put sincere emotion behind my words. And keep random thoughts from distracting me. It was hard at first, but I got better.

It did not take long for me to feel like He was listening directly to me. I loved the warmth as I thanked him for the good in my day or about Gospel topics. My clearly outlined concerns and requests felt heard and recorded. After my main prayer ended, I would start another. An opportunity to randomly express my thoughts about anything and everything and see where it ends. Mostly, I answer my own questions through inspiration or realize how trivial a concern is. Inspiration comes from thoughts that feel right and peaceful. These are now my favorite types of prayers and relaxation. I have a much closer relationship with my Heavenly Father.

Be sure you tell your spouse you are meditating. My wife thought I slept like a mummy for weeks until I told her what I was doing. There is only ONE Source of Truth to worship through prayer, God the Father. Do not look for signs. Be still and listen with your heart. He will answer you in His own way and time. It may not be what you want, but it will be what you need.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

To pray well is the better half of study.