What Is Prayer, and What Do I Do When My Mind Wanders? | Daily Devotional & Bible Study

Today, before we start Bible Study 101, I sit down with Monika Kirkland for a conversation about prayer. We talk about what prayer actually is, why it belongs at the center of Bible study, and what to do when you don't know what to say, your mind wanders, or a prayer still feels unanswered.

"strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience" (Colossians 1:11)

Questions this episode answers

What is prayer?

Prayer is connection and communion with God, relating to Him directly instead of only hearing about Him secondhand. It is also an invitation to join what God is already doing. It is not a formality before Bible study but the relationship that study is meant to deepen.

Why does my mind wander when I pray?

A wandering mind is common and not a sign of failure. Instead of only forcing your focus back, notice where your mind went. Sometimes it points to a person God wants you to pray for, or to something you are holding too tightly.

What should I do with unanswered prayer?

Some prayers are answered with no and some with not yet. Jesus in Gethsemane shows the posture we can take, openly bringing our request and then surrendering to the Father's will. When you cannot trace His hand, you can trust His heart.

Find Monika Kirkland at monikakirkland.com

Timestamps

02:17 What is prayer?

04:16 What does prayer have to do with Bible study?

06:56 When I don't know what to say

09:25 Why does my mind wander?

13:30 Is it okay to fall asleep while praying?

23:01 What do I do with unanswered prayer?

26:04 How do I pray Scripture over someone?

28:19 Two simple prayer rhythms

Links

If you long for unhurried time to pray, Bible Study Live in Maui is a contemplative Bible study retreat where a small group of women slow down and listen for God together.

Bible Study Live is a small-group Bible study trip with Rachael Groll. Study Scripture where it happened in Rome, or slow down for a contemplative Bible study retreat in Maui. Dates and details at BibleStudyLive.org

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