Bryan Chapell says on page 104 of his book on Christ-centered prayer, Praying Backwards – Transform Your Prayer Life by Beginning in Jesus’ Name, what I have often heard from the pulpit as a pastor instructs the congregation before they enter into a time of corporate prayer.

Remember that our prayers do not have to be long or formal to be acceptable and powerful. God certainly honors thoughtful, reverent prayer, but he also hears the anguish of our heart when we can voice no plea more articulate than calling his name.

In the Book of Romans the Apostle Paul tells us in our weakness to remember that “we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words” (8:26).

Praying Boldly—as a Child

   Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.

— Bryan Chapell