Friday, January 2, 2026

New Testament Reading Plan: Ephesians 6

The power of prayer.

Milk and cookies, peanut butter and jelly, mashed potatoes and gravy. Just like these foods are best together, prayer and fasting are a classic combination. Fasting creates space; prayer connects us with God.

Some find prayer intimidating. Many skip it out of fear of doing something “wrong.” Here’s the good news – prayer doesn’t need to be fancy or complicated. Prayer is simply the opportunity to honestly and humbly communicate with God. What's exciting is he wants us to talk to him and promises he will listen.

Jeremiah 29:12-13
In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

God uses prayer to transform us into his image. As we spend time in his presence, he meets us where we are, helps us know him better, and changes us from the inside out. Each time we connect with God—praising who he is, admitting mistakes, making petitions, and trusting the results—he gently molds our heart to be more like his.

As with anything new, prayer takes practice. It will become easier as you go.  Just begin where you are and build the habit as you journey with God.

If you aren’t quite sure where to start, don’t be embarrassed - even the  disciples asked Jesus how to pray (Luke 11:1-4). Some people use acronyms like  P.R.A.Y (praise, repent, ask, yield) to structure their prayers, or you can use a breath prayer.

Breath prayer is simple to perform and can be done almost anywhere – while driving, in a meeting, or at the dentist. It's also a great way to recenter your thoughts on Christ while fasting.
To do this, first, select a short verse or two that resonates with you.  Then sitting or standing tall, gently breath in through the nose and out through the nose or mouth. Repeat two or three times, then add the verse(s). 

Jeremiah 29:12-13
Inhale: In those days when you pray
Exhale: I will listen
Inhale: If you look for me wholeheartedly,
Exhale: You will find me.

Repeat slowly for a minute or so, lingering on the words you are saying. Consider gently emphasizing a different word in your mind each time you repeat it. As you do, fix your eyes on Jesus, rather than the distraction of hunger if you are fasting. 

Surrender your burdens and receive clarity and strength.

Questions:
When have you felt most connected to God in prayer? What made that moment meaningful?

What’s one area of your life where you want God to shape you more into his image?

Next Steps:
Today, use simple language and lift your needs, your questions, your hopes, and your fears before God. 

Fast to make room. Pray to invite him in. Expect him to move.

Prayer:
God, thank you for inviting me to come close. Teach me to pray with honesty and simplicity. Help me trust that when you speak, you listen, and when I seek, you’re already drawing near. Shape my heart as I spend time with you. Give me clarity, peace, and the courage to surrender what I’m carrying. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, curriculum coordinator at CedarCreek and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.