Develop The Habit Of Talking To God

Communication is vital in any relationship, particularly in our relationship with God. Praying involves a mix of talking, listening, and waiting. However, the most important aspect is to remain consistent in this practice even when it's inconvenient. A Biblical character who exemplified this type of consistent communication through prayer is Daniel from the Old Testament.

The other leaders in the government of Babylon were envious of Daniel. They sought to find any flaws in his political history to use against him and remove him from his trusted position with the king. However, their efforts were unsuccessful because Daniel was a man of high integrity. The only strategy they could devise was to exploit his commitment to God. They tricked the king into passing a law that prohibited Daniel from praying (Daniel 6:1-9).

Despite a false decree intended to trap Daniel, he continued to pray. Daniel 6:10 says, "Daniel always prayed to God three times every day. Three times every day, he bowed down on his knees to pray and praise God. Even though Daniel heard about the new law, he still went home to pray. He went up to the upper room of his house and opened the windows that faced toward Jerusalem. Then Daniel bowed down on his knees and prayed just as he always had done."

Daniel's example demonstrates that the key to cultivating a strong prayer life is consistency. When prayer becomes a habit, both your faith and personal growth will flourish, and every other relationship can improve.

Just as a mighty oak tree doesn't grow tall and stable overnight, a vibrant prayer life develops through daily, consistent connection with God. At first, the sapling requires regular watering and care. Over time, its roots grow deeper, drawing nourishment even when storms come or the surface appears dry. When we pray sporadically, our spiritual roots stay shallow, making us vulnerable to worry, distraction, or trials. However, when we make prayer a daily habit—morning, noon, and evening, like Daniel—our roots sink deep into God's presence, making us resilient and fruitful.

Start small—with just a few minutes each day—and watch how God cultivates something substantial and enduring in you over time. "The righteous flourish like the palm tree... planted in the house of the Lord" (Psalm 92:12-13).