More often than not in the hectic life of 21st century living we neglect the one source of energy that can free us from the torments of life…and give us peace.
The conclusion for many is that the power of thought makes things happen in a way that still baffles the intellect on all levels…Given that 94% of people believe in God or a higher power greater than them (1994 Gallup Poll)… 43% of doctors admit to privately praying for their patients.
There are seven types of prayer, the ones we are most familiar with are:
1: Petition Prayer where we approach God requesting aid because we feel in crisis….
2: Adoration and Praise which most of us know from school or church.
3: Confessional Prayer and is the most difficult because it’s never easy to list and confess our shortcomings and then ask for forgiveness. Yet, the act of confession is part of some high churches and is believed to lead to emotional and spiritual catharsis.
4: Intercession Prayers are offered on behalf of others, especially those who are suffering.
5: Meditation is a spiritual and often considered an Eastern discipline, where in those quiet moments we open the soul widely, and trust God's (Universal Energy) direction. Quiet meditation is ideal when we are experiencing inner turmoil because prayerful silence soothes the anxious mind and soul. In times of mediation we often have our most creative insights.
6: Consecration involves surrendering completely to God's will and service.
7: Thanksgiving is the prayer of gratitude. In the 21st century we have become less grateful, lusting for things that when we finally get them, they don’t have the impact expected…Thanksgiving prayers bring us back to humanistic values.
Cultivating these seven types of prayer in another way can result in a more rounded and satisfying spiritual life.
|