14th January 2026
It takes all kinds
Many of us are familiar or have at least heard of different approaches to prayer. Some give specific guidelines about how to go about it, even down to steps 1, 2, 3 and 4 or even more. Others have named the types of prayers, like those of lament, intercession, confession, supplication, etc. Some of these methods and definitions can be helpful, but I’ve found much of this prayer advice constricting and not sustainable in the long run.
One of the best pieces of advice in the Bible about prayer is found in Ephesians 6:18. Most translations have a variation of ‘always pray in the Spirit’, which of course, we should – how else would we pray, but in the Spirit? The best part comes in the second half of the verse: with all kinds of prayers and requests. A lot of translations talk about perseverance in prayer and again, of course. But it’s freeing to think that God is not that picky about what kinds of prayers we say.
When Brother Lawrence practiced the presence of God, his whole day was filled with prayer. He prayed while peeling potatoes, repairing shoes, walking, washing and breathing. I’ve talked about breath prayers before, but I’ll mention them again as more and more I’m finding them the best way to practice his presence. I’ve even thought about choosing a breath prayer of the day. This morning I was inspired by Eugene Peterson to pray this one: Jesus, my heart, your home, which led me to add: your heart, my home.
May we all pray in the Spirit with all perseverance, any and every kind of prayer, all day long.
First published on 19 November 2025, at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com a personal blog which is not sponsored by Grace Communion International.
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Study by: Tammy Tkach About the author: |
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