When children are young, we often set a few routines in their day. We help them develop a sense of responsibility, of what to expect in their day, and even to give them a sense of fulfillment by giving them simple routines.
 
I think about how my routines were changed by my Mother over the years. In elementary school, Mom would wake me up in the morning and have breakfast set out for me. I was responsible to get dressed, eat, and walk to school (uphill in the snow, both ways).
 
It seems in Junior High I was responsible to get myself up in the morning. I began to lay out my clothes the night before. There were books to gather and carry. I jumped on my bike because school was a bit further away.
 
By late high school, I had additional responsibilities. I had to get up early enough to drive the carpool. Athletics were pretty constant so I was assigned the daily need of washing my own laundry. As I grew, the list of routines grew.
 
Routines helped prepare me for the day, furthered my growth, and still play a role in my life to this day.
 
I have spiritual routines which are more commonly known as spiritual disciplines. I think of them as routines or practices that put me in place to experience God’s grace. As a spiritual discipline, prayer has been an area of growth for me.
 
The Lord has given us many exhortations and invitations, even commands, in Scripture to spend time in prayer with Him. Note the invitation to Jeremiah and the Israelites:

Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you
great and mighty things, which you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3

I find it amazing that the living God who spoke the universe into being wants to hear human voices. My voice. Your voice. We must take Him up on His invitation.
 
Last Sunday, we engaged beloved Jesus in a healthy pattern of prayer. It was dynamic because it was God-centered prayer. It was vibrant because we were intentional in expressing our thoughts.
 
The ACTS acronym establishes God at the center with Adoration, declaring His majesty. His majesty exposes our sin more completely which leads to Confession. Experiencing His grace in the form of forgiveness swells our hearts with gratitude and we are Thankful. By then, our hearts are aligned with God’s purposes and we make requests, or Supplication.
 
A healthy pattern can prevent prayer from becoming “too routine.” I encourage you to practice it at home. Let your love for Jesus grow as you keep Him at the center of your prayer.
 
Love and blessings,
Dave