In the fourth chapter of his first letter to believers, Peter spoke of the difficulty of living for God in a godless world. And how does someone do such a thing? Peter advised, "Be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray."

It's amazing to me that we as Christians will live a a life of defeat when all we have to do is follow Peter's advice and pray. But it's true isn't it? Don't we view prayer as a last resort rather than a natural and first response. Instead of praying through life, don't we play through life? Remember, Peter's advice was not to avoid association with the world, but use it as a reminder to pray.

Now that we know we ought to pray, perhaps we need to know how to pray. I know of no better resource for that information than what can be found in the book of Psalms. David revealed the source of his confidence as hope in the word of God in chapter 119, verse 81. It seems to me that the key to a successful prayer life is having hope in God's word.

In what, or should I say, in who is your hope? As believers, we have a faithful Father in God, a powerful Advocate in Jesus and a consistent Comforter in the Holy Spirit. But hope that is seen is no hope at all, according to Romans 8:24. With that in mind, it's important to take note that we cannot prove our hope in the Father, Son or Holy Spirit because the world cannot see what we see.

It's only when the world sees what we do - holding the word of God, praying and acting on the truth on it, that the world can see our hope. They may not be able to see God, but they can see you. How are you doing in proving the basis of your hope?

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru (Dn. 2:24-3:30 1 Pt. 4:7-5:14 Ps. 119:81-95 Pr. 28:15-16 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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