Introductory Thoughts
One might think that prayer has always existed in the exact manner in which it presently exists, but such is not the case. It appears that the first major shift in prayer took place in Genesis 4:26. We know that Adam and Eve freely spoke with the Lord face-to-face in the garden (Genesis 3:8). However, it seems that the fall of man caused men to have to begin “to call upon the name of the LORD.” Even then, prayer was not as it is today. The very fact that prayer has not always existed parallels a time in the future when prayer as we know it will not exist. When man had full access to the Lord, there was no need for prayer. In eternity, the same will be true. For now, the Lord has given us access to Him through prayer (Hebrews 4:16).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): When you want to talk to someone, dad and mom may be busy and your friends may not be home. God says we are His friends (John 15:15b). He is always near (Psalm 145:18) and invites us to talk to Him (Jeremiah 33:3). Have you talked to Him today?
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(For everyone): Why does God desire for His people to be able to have access to Him? How does prayer fill the void caused by the fall in the garden. Are you excited that that access to the Lord will be restored in eternity?
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If God made prayer available in order to allow access to Him, what does it suggest when we do not take advantage of prayer? He wants to hear from us, do we want to talk to Him?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you see the blessing of being able to pray.
- Ask God to help you take advantage of the access you have.
Song
NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD
