It’s Time to Actually Pray
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
How to move from saying “I’ll pray for you” to living a life of intentional, modeled prayer
I grew up with praying grandparents. Anytime we stayed at my grandparents’ house, I’d wake up to find my grandfather at the dining room table with his Bible open in front of him. When he wasn’t reading, his hand rested gently over the pages, his eyes closed in prayer.
I’m not sure if he knew when I walked into the kitchen—though I’m guessing Papa did—but he never flinched. He just kept praying, calling each of his children and grandchildren by name. In those quiet moments, I felt deeply loved. Papa cared enough to ask for God’s protection and blessing over my life and the lives of my brother and cousins. Papa knew God, and days before he passed away, he told us about glimpses of heaven. In those final moments, I saw him worship Jesus with a joy and surrender I’d never seen before.
Up until July 31, I had a praying Grandma in the bedroom next to mine. I can’t count the number of times I heard her praying for her children and grandchildren by name.
Sometimes, her voice would wake me in the night. I’ll admit, I was occasionally annoyed when I couldn’t fall back asleep. But then I’d think, “Someday, I’m going to miss this.”
It’s been two weeks, and I can tell you—that day has come. I miss it.
There are many things my grandparents taught me, but this is the greatest: It’s not enough to just say, “I’ll pray for you.” That phrase has become so easy to say, yet so hard to actually do.
And while praying for people is essential, modeling prayer is just as important. When our children, grandchildren, and friends see us pray—and hear us pray—it shapes them. It shows them how to speak with God in their own words. Our prayer habits become part of the legacy we leave.
Even today, I pray for my children and grandchildren by name. And I hope someday they’ll remember not just that I prayed for them, but how I prayed for them.
The Call to Pray
Jennifer Kennedy Dean once wrote:
“We tend to believe that prayer is something we do to enlist God to move in our direction, when in fact, prayer is God’s way of enlisting us to move in His direction.”
– Jennifer Kennedy Dean
C.S. Lewis put it this way:
“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time—waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God—it changes me.”
– C.S. Lewis
And another beautifully-put quote from Catherine Marshall:
“God is the only one who can make the valley of trouble a door of hope.”
– Catherine Marshall
Prayer is not an optional side activity in the Christian life—it is the lifeline. It’s where God shapes our hearts, changes our attitudes, and strengthens us for the work ahead.
How to Build a Real Prayer Habit
If you want to move from promising to pray to actually praying, try these simple steps:
- Start with a list of names
Write down the names of people you want to pray for daily. Keep it in your Bible, journal, or phone. - Pick a prayer trigger
Tie prayer to something you already do—pouring your morning coffee, starting your car, or washing dishes. - Pray out loud when you can
This doesn’t have to be formal. Let your kids, spouse, or friends hear you thank God for them and bring needs before Him. - Pray immediately
If someone says, “Will you pray for me?”—pray with them right then, if possible. - Set prayer reminders
Use alarms on your phone or sticky notes in places you’ll see them often. - Use Scripture as your guide
Turn Bible verses into prayers by inserting names into them. For example, “Lord, I pray that [child’s name] will trust in You with all their heart” (Proverbs 3:5). - Keep it short but consistent
A 2-minute heartfelt prayer every day will do more than a once-a-month marathon session. - End your day with gratitude
Thank God by name for the people you love before you go to sleep. - Journal your prayers
Not only does this help you remember what you prayed for, but it also lets you look back and see how God answered. - Pray until you pray
As Leonard Ravenhill said, sometimes we start distracted—but if we press through, our hearts and minds align with God’s presence.
Find a printable chart here to use in your own prayers.
Friend, today might be the perfect day to put your Bible on the table, lay your hand over it, and start whispering the names of the people you love. Don’t just tell them you’re praying—let them catch you in the act.
Because one day, when you’re gone, the sound of your prayers might be the memory they hold most dear.
A Prayer for You
Father, I thank You for the one reading these words right now.
You know their heart, their needs, their burdens, and their hopes.
Lord, I ask that You would surround them with Your peace—the kind that goes deeper than circumstances.
Give them courage to not just say they will pray, but to live a life of prayer.Remind them that You are near and that You hear every whisper, every groan, and every word spoken in faith.
Draw them close to You in both the quiet moments and the busy ones.
Help them to pray for those they love by name and to trust that every prayer sown will bear fruit in Your perfect timing.May their home, their relationships, and their days be marked by Your presence.
And Lord, as they pray for others, would You bless them in ways they could never have imagined.In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
August 18
Ezekiel 10-13
The Departure of God’s Glory
The Glory of God in the Temple
In Ezekiel 10, we witness a dramatic vision of God’s glory departing from the temple. Ezekiel sees a throne of blue lapis lazuli above the cherubim, symbolizing the divine presence. The coals of fire from the throne signify the judgment that will come upon Jerusalem.
The departure of God’s glory marks the end of a significant relationship, as the divine presence leaves the temple that had been its home for centuries. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
God’s Judgment and the Cherubim
The cherubim, with their unwavering mission, signify the unstoppable nature of God’s plans. As they carry God’s glory away, they demonstrate the seriousness of Jerusalem’s spiritual corruption and the inevitability of divine judgment.
The vision challenges us to consider the state of our own spiritual lives. Are we nurturing God’s presence within us, or are we allowing other things to take precedence?
Promises of Restoration
A New Heart and Spirit
In Ezekiel 11, God promises to gather the exiles and give them a new heart and spirit. He will replace their stony hearts with tender, responsive ones, drawing them back into a relationship with Him.
Even as God’s glory departs, there is hope for restoration. God’s desire is for His people to return to Him with wholehearted obedience and trust.
This promise reminds us that no matter how far we stray, God’s glory awaits us if we are willing to turn back to Him with a responsive heart.
Ezekiel’s Symbolic Actions and the Fall of False Prophets
Symbolic Acts of Judgment
In Ezekiel 12, God instructs Ezekiel to perform symbolic actions, such as digging through a wall, to represent the coming judgment and exile. These acts serve as vivid warnings to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their rebellion.
The actions of Ezekiel highlight the urgency and seriousness of God’s messages. They challenge us to heed God’s warnings and align our lives with His will.
Condemnation of False Prophets
Ezekiel 13 condemns false prophets who mislead the people with lies and false visions. Their teachings are likened to whitewashing, covering up the truth but offering no real protection.
The condemnation of false prophets serves as a reminder to seek God’s truth and reject teachings that do not align with His Word. We are called to be discerning and faithful in our pursuit of His glory.
The Word of the Day: Glory
Definition: Adoring praise or worshipful thanksgiving; something that is a source of honor, fame, or admiration; a distinguished ornament or an object of pride.
This concept encapsulates the magnificence and beauty of God’s presence. Ezekiel’s visions highlight the profound implications of God’s glory departing from the temple and the promises of restoration for those who remain faithful.
Seeking God’s Glory in Our Lives
God’s glory is an indicator of His worth and value, deserving of our praise and honor. It is seen in miracles and the divine presence throughout the Bible.
Reflect on Your Heart: Are you nurturing God’s glory within you, or are you distracted by worldly promises?
Despite our shortcomings, God offers the promise of restoration and a new heart. He desires a tender, responsive heart that obeys and trusts in Him.
Seek God’s Presence: Make God’s glory your ultimate destination, aligning your life with His will and allowing His presence to guide you.
In a world filled with false teachings and distractions, we are called to be faithful in our pursuit of God’s truth and glory.
Live for His Glory: Be vigilant in discerning God’s truth and living out His messages with integrity and grace.
August 19
Ezekiel 14-16
Understanding the Detestable
In today’s study of Ezekiel chapters 14-16, we encounter a powerful message about the things God finds detestable. These chapters remind us of the seriousness of sin and God’s call for personal integrity and faithfulness. Let’s delve into these passages and discover what they mean for us today.
Ezekiel 14: Idolatry and Individual Responsibility
In Ezekiel 14, the leaders of Israel are called out for setting up idols in their hearts. These idols, though not physical, are just as real and dangerous. God warns that even if a righteous person like Noah, Daniel, or Job were present, they could only save themselves through their righteousness, not others around them.
Examining Our Hearts
We must ask ourselves what idols we may have set up in our hearts. Are there things we prioritize over God? It’s essential to recognize these and turn back to Him, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.
Ezekiel 15: The Useless Vine
Chapter 15 uses the metaphor of a vine to describe the people of Jerusalem. A vine is only valuable if it bears fruit; otherwise, it is useless and destined to be burned.
Bearing Spiritual Fruit
Are we bearing spiritual fruit in our lives? Let’s strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and righteousness, producing good works that glorify Him.
Ezekiel 16: The Faithfulness of God
Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God promises restoration. Even though their sins are detestable, God remains faithful and will forgive those who return to Him.
Rejoicing in God’s Faithfulness
God’s faithfulness is a constant, even when we are not. As we confront our sins and shortcomings, let’s celebrate His unending love and mercy. When we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9).
Word of the Day: Detestable
Definition: Actions and attitudes deserving intense dislike and loathing.
In Ezekiel 16:2, God tells Ezekiel to “confront Jerusalem with her detestable sins.” This strong language emphasizes how seriously God views idolatry and unfaithfulness. As we reflect on this word, let’s examine our own lives for anything that might be detestable to God.
Turning Away from the Detestable
The challenge for us is not just to recognize what is detestable but to actively turn away from it. Whether it’s negative thoughts, unhealthy habits, or wasted time, we must reject what is contrary to God’s will and pursue what is pure and good.
Spiritual Integrity
Commitment to spiritual integrity may be difficult, but it leads to a deeper relationship with God and a fulfilling life. Let’s celebrate God’s faithfulness as we strive to align our hearts with His truth.
August 20
Ezekiel 17-19
Planted in Faith
Today, we’re diving into Ezekiel chapters 17-19, which contain vivid allegories and laments that reveal deep truths about God’s justice, mercy, and the power of being “planted” in faith. These chapters remind us of the importance of personal responsibility and the lasting impact of God’s promises.
Ezekiel 17: The Allegory of Eagles and Vines
Ezekiel 17 presents an allegory involving two eagles and a vine, symbolizing the political alliances and betrayals of Judah’s kings. The first eagle represents Babylon, taking Judah’s king captive, while the second eagle symbolizes Egypt, whose promised support will ultimately fail.
Trusting God’s Plan
In our lives, we may be tempted to rely on worldly solutions rather than trusting in God’s plan. This chapter reminds us that true security comes from being “planted” in God’s promises, not in earthly alliances.
Ezekiel 18: Personal Responsibility
Ezekiel 18 emphasizes personal responsibility, countering the belief that children are punished for their parents’ sins. God declares that each individual is accountable for their actions and offers hope that the wicked can turn from their sins and live.
Owning Our Faith Journey
We cannot blame our circumstances or heritage for our spiritual state. Instead, we are called to own our journey of faith, turning from sin and embracing the new heart and spirit God offers.
Lament for the Princes of Israel
In Ezekiel 19, we find a lament over Israel’s leaders, depicted as a lioness and her cubs, and a vine that has been uprooted. These images reflect the downfall of Judah’s kings due to their disobedience.
Learning from the Past
As we reflect on these laments, let’s learn from the mistakes of the past. Leadership without God leads to destruction, but by staying planted in His truth, we can grow and flourish.
Word of the Day: Planted
Definition: To put or set in the ground for growth, as seeds, young trees, etc.; to establish or implant (ideas, principles, doctrines, etc.).
The word “planted” evokes images of growth, potential, and new beginnings. In Ezekiel 17:22, God speaks of planting a branch that will grow into something magnificent, symbolizing the restoration of David’s throne through the Messiah. Similarly, Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven as a mustard seed that, once planted, grows into a mighty tree (Matthew 13:31-32).
Planting Seeds of the Kingdom
Consider the seeds planted in your life—through family, friends, or mentors—and how they have shaped your faith. As those seeds blossom, God invites us to be seed planters in the lives of others.
Embracing Our Role as Planters
Whether you are nurturing seeds in your own heart or planting seeds of faith in others, remember that even the smallest act can lead to great growth in God’s Kingdom. Embrace your role as a faithful sower, trusting that God will bring about the increase.
August 21
Ezekiel 20-22
Confronting Spiritual Pollution
In today’s readings from Ezekiel chapters 20-22, we explore a powerful narrative about Israel’s repeated rebellion and God’s relentless mercy. The theme of pollution is central as we examine how sin taints our relationship with God and the world around us.
Ezekiel 20: A History of Rebellion
Ezekiel 20 recounts Israel’s history of rebellion against God, despite His mercy and deliverance. God describes how the people polluted themselves with idolatry, choosing to follow the corrupt practices of other nations.
Recognizing Our Pollutants
Just as pollution harms the environment, sin contaminates our hearts and lives. Reflect on what might be polluting your spirit. Are there idols or influences drawing you away from God? It’s time to seek His cleansing and restoration.
Ezekiel 21: The Sword of Judgment
In Ezekiel 21, God speaks of a sharpened sword symbolizing impending judgment on Israel. This imagery highlights the severity of the people’s sins and the certainty of God’s righteous justice.
The Cost of Pollution
Pollution has consequences. In our spiritual lives, unchecked sin leads to separation from God. Acknowledge the areas needing repentance, and trust in His grace to renew and purify your heart.
Ezekiel 22: The Abominations of Jerusalem
Ezekiel 22 exposes the abominations committed by Jerusalem, from idolatry to social injustice and sexual immorality. God promises to scatter and judge the people, making their impurity known to the nations.
Purifying Our Influence
Our actions and words can either uplift or pollute those around us. Consider how you can be a positive influence, reflecting God’s love and truth instead of contributing to the world’s spiritual contamination.
Word of the Day: Pollute
Definition: To contaminate something with harmful substances, degrading its purity and value.
In Ezekiel 20:30-31, God questions Israel:
"Do you plan to pollute yourselves just as your ancestors did?... you continue to pollute yourselves with idols to this day."
This word encapsulates the spiritual contamination caused by idolatry, injustice, and immorality, leading to God’s judgment.
Cleansing Our Hearts and Minds
In these chapters, we see a call to address the pollution in our lives. Whether it’s idolatry, negative influences, or unwholesome speech, God invites us to turn away from sin and seek His purity.
Embracing God’s Mercy
God’s judgment serves as a warning but also as an opportunity for redemption. Let’s embrace His mercy, committing to live in a way that honors Him and cleanses the pollution from our hearts.
August 22
Ezekiel 24:15-27, Ezekiel 25, Jeremiah 34, 21, Ezekiel 29:1-16, Ezekiel 30:20-26, Ezekiel 31
The Arm of the Lord
Today’s readings from Ezekiel 22-24 immerse us in vivid imagery and parables, illustrating the severe trials and judgments God places upon His people. The concept of the “crucible” captures the essence of these passages, representing both the intense trials faced by Israel and the purification process God desires for His people.
Ezekiel 22: The Worthless Slag
God likens Israel to worthless slag—a mixture of metals such as copper, tin, iron, and lead—that needs to be purified in the furnace of His judgment. This imagery emphasizes how the people’s sins have rendered them impure and in need of refinement.
Embracing the Refining Process
Reflect on the crucibles in your own life. Are there trials or challenges that God might be using to refine your character? Trust in His purpose, knowing that these experiences can purify and strengthen your faith.
Ezekiel 23: The Adulterous Sisters
Ezekiel 23 uses the allegory of two adulterous sisters, representing Samaria and Jerusalem, to illustrate Israel’s spiritual infidelity. Their pursuit of foreign gods and immoral practices leads to devastating consequences.
Learning from Past Mistakes
The story of the two sisters reminds us of the dangers of turning away from God. Let’s learn from their mistakes, choosing faithfulness and obedience over spiritual adultery.
Ezekiel 24: The Boiling Pot Parable
In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel to use a parable of a boiling pot, symbolizing Jerusalem’s impending destruction. The rust in the pot represents the people’s sins, which have tainted and defiled them.
Acknowledging Our Sins
Are there areas in your life where sin has taken hold? Confess and seek God’s forgiveness, allowing His refining fire to cleanse and renew your spirit.
Word of the Day: Crucible
Definition: A vessel used for melting substances at high temperatures.
Metaphorically, it represents a severe test or trial where intense forces interact, leading to transformation and development. In Ezekiel 22:20-22, God declares that He will bring Israel into His crucible, melting them in the heat of His fury.
Trials as Crucibles of Growth
The rebellion of Zedekiah and the subsequent siege of Jerusalem serve as a crucible of human pride and defiance against God. These events remind us that trials, whether self-inflicted or beyond our control, can be transformative. They expose our weaknesses, test our faith, and refine our character.
Pray Through Trials with Faith
As believers, we are called to approach life’s crucibles with faith, trusting that God will use them to reveal Jesus in us. Let’s draw inspiration from Jesus’ experience in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He faced immense pressure yet chose submission to God’s will.
August 23
Ezekiel 24:15-27, Ezekiel 25, Jeremiah 34, 21, Ezekiel 29:1-16, Ezekiel 30:20-26, Ezekiel 31
The Arm of the Lord
In today’s readings from Ezekiel 24-25 and Jeremiah 34, we witness the power and influence of God’s arm, a symbol of His might and authority. As we explore these chapters, we’ll discover how God’s arm can be both a source of judgment and a beacon of hope.
Ezekiel 24:15-27: Ezekiel’s Personal Crucible
In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel that his beloved wife will die, yet he must not mourn openly. This symbolizes how the Israelites will not mourn the destruction of the Temple, despite its significance. Ezekiel’s obedience serves as a stark reminder of the people’s impending judgment.
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty
Even in personal trials, we can trust in God’s sovereign plan. Ezekiel’s obedience teaches us to rely on God’s strength, knowing that His arm is mighty and His purposes are just.
Ezekiel 25: Judgment on the Nations
Ezekiel 25 delivers prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel—Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia. These nations rejoiced in Israel’s downfall, prompting God’s judgment against them.
Guarding Against Pride
Rejoicing in others’ misfortune invites God’s judgment. Instead, let’s seek humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s arm lifts the humble and opposes the proud.
Jeremiah 34: Zedekiah’s Disobedience
In Jeremiah 34, God warns King Zedekiah of Babylon’s impending victory over Jerusalem. The chapter also condemns Judah for reneging on their promise to free Hebrew slaves, highlighting their disobedience and inviting God’s wrath.
The Cost of Disobedience
Disobedience to God’s commands leads to consequences. Let’s commit to following His will, trusting in the protection of His mighty arm.
Word of the Day: Arm
Definition: Denotes influence, power, and means of support or conquest.
Throughout the Bible, God’s arm is depicted as a symbol of strength and justice, wielding authority over nations and individuals alike.
The Dual Nature of God’s Arm
In these chapters, we see the dual nature of God’s arm as both a source of strength for His followers and a tool of judgment against His enemies.
- Jeremiah 21:5: God fights against His people with a “strong hand and powerful arm” because of their disobedience.
- Ezekiel 30:22-24: God breaks Pharaoh’s arms but strengthens the arms of Babylon, demonstrating His control over nations.
- Isaiah 33:20: God’s arm offers mercy and strength to those who seek Him.
- Psalm 98:1: God’s right hand and holy arm achieve victory and bring hope.
Choosing the Embrace of God’s Arm
For believers, God’s arm is a source of peace, strength, and protection. Let’s choose to seek His embrace, finding comfort and assurance in His promises, while understanding the seriousness of opposing His mighty power.
August 24
Jeremiah 32-33, Ezekiel 26:1-14
Replanting with Purpose
In today’s readings from Jeremiah 32-33 and Ezekiel 26, we encounter profound messages of hope and renewal amidst impending judgment and destruction. God’s promise to replant His people serves as a powerful reminder of His unfailing love and sovereignty.
Jeremiah 32: A Symbol of Hope
While imprisoned, Jeremiah receives a message from God to buy a field from his cousin, symbolizing the eventual restoration of the land. Despite the impending destruction, this act of faith reflects God’s promise of renewal and His plan to bring His people back from exile.
Trusting God’s Promises
Like Jeremiah, we are called to trust in God’s promises even when circumstances seem bleak. Remember that God’s plan for replanting us involves hope, growth, and a future filled with His blessings.
Jeremiah 33: A Covenant of Restoration
In Jeremiah 33, God reassures His people that He will fulfill His promises to them. He will restore prosperity, bring peace, and raise a righteous descendant from David’s line, ultimately pointing to the coming of the Messiah.
Finding Strength in God’s Faithfulness
God’s commitment to His people is unwavering. We can find strength and encouragement in His faithfulness, knowing that He will always work for our good, even in the hardest times.
Ezekiel 26: The Downfall of Tyre
Ezekiel 26 prophesies the destruction of Tyre, a city that rejoiced in Jerusalem’s downfall. This judgment serves as a warning against pride and celebrating others’ misfortunes.
Embracing Humility
Let’s strive to embrace humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s justice is righteous and that we should seek to build others up rather than delight in their struggles.
Word of the Day: Replant
Definition: To plant something again, often with greater care and intention, ensuring it thrives in a new environment.
In Jeremiah 32:41, God promises to “replant” His people in their land, emphasizing His commitment to restoring and nurturing them after a time of exile.
The Beauty of Replanting
Replanting is a process that requires care and intention. Just as God promises to replant His people, He invites us to experience renewal in our own lives.
- Jeremiah 32:37-40: God will bring His people back and give them one heart and purpose—to worship Him forever.
- Jeremiah 32:27: God reminds us that nothing is too hard for Him, encouraging us to trust in His power and plan.
Flourishing in God’s Care
In the hands of our loving God, we can flourish even after being uprooted. Trust in His promise to replant you with purpose, knowing that He will never stop doing good for you.
