Why is it so difficult for me to pray? I love the idea of having someone to look after me, and I also like the thought of praying for other people, but I have so much doubt as to whether God exists. It just gets in the way. Any ideas?
2007-12-18 07:24:07 · 15 answers · asked by 659017 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I don't get on well with the Bible either. And I don't want to go to church either. Christianity seems far too strict to me, and I don't like the whole 'accept Jesus or God won't listen' thing.
2007-12-18 07:37:01 · update #1
I am an atheist, but I used to pray when I was younger. I love the idea of praying for others. Sending your good will and love out into the universe. Now instead of praying to god I try to help my family and friends with my actions, (AND I am not saying that praying stops people from action) even if there is nothing I can do except listen to their problems. Your good thoughts and well wishing doesn't have to be directed to god (or gods) if it makes you feel better spiritually to "pray" do it. I am sending good wishes to you right now for such a lovely question. ;0)
2007-12-18 07:37:50 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
This is kind of tricky in essay format, I'm usually a "Socratic dialog" type of preacher. But I'll give it a shot.
Don't worry about the whole "does God exist" part for the moment. When people say that, it usually turns out they mean "Is there an old man with a big white beard sitting on a throne controlling the cosmos" and i have to discuss with them WHAT God IS first of all. We'll save that for the future, and contact me if I'm close to what your problem is. I'm good at that part after the 300th time.
For a lot of people, thinking "Universe" instead of "God" helps. They are synonyms to me at least.
Prayer shouldn't be like a letter to Santa. It's an expression of gratitude for just being given the chance to exist, and appreciate all the other things that exist and people we share life with. Meditate for a while, clear your thoughts, and then think of all the experiences in life you're grateful for.
If you want to close your prayer time with something "official sounding" I suggest appealing to the Universe for the wisdom to appreciate and understand the Universe more fully in the coming days.
I hope this helps some?
2007-12-18 16:04:36 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The best way to pray is to read your Bible. The best illustrations are in the Gospel. Also, when you read, point out the promises God has for you and tell them back to Him (call Him at His word). Let Him know you are doubting, then ask for more faith. God will not get mad at you for doubting (if you are honest about it. Some people don't care to believe in God). Just don't give up trying. If you want to know Him, continue to seek after Him. Tell Him whatever is on your mind. What God wants most from you is for you to communicate and build a relationship with Him. Read your Bible and trust in Him. You will see what He will do for you (He will do it). But if you never try, how will you know. Good luck and God bless.
2007-12-18 15:36:05 · answer #3 · answered by LineQ 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I have found the best way to pray is just to talk, with God being the other ear. Talk about anything you want and open up. Tell God you have doubts, tell him you had a pudding pop. Talk to God like you would a friend, and parent.
And God will listen no mater what.
2007-12-18 15:29:17 · answer #4 · answered by Lady Death 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
James wrote that a double mind is like a wave tossed upon the sea, going here and there, but getting nowhere. My ideals? it is impossible to please God without faith. So your praying holdups must come second to your lack of knowing God in the first place.
2007-12-18 15:36:17 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
God is omnipotent and omnipresent. Try to tone that down a notch and set an empty chair in front of you. God is in that chair. Just talk to God as if you're talking to a dear friend. It may seem silly at first.
2007-12-18 15:32:12 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you like to pray for others, just do it. You don't need to be on your knees. You can pray while you make breakfast, in an elevator, in the shower, or anyplace you find yourself. It is a start.
2007-12-18 15:32:57 · answer #7 · answered by magix151 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Depends which God you're praying to. The fable called "christ" never existed. But I do believe G-D exists, the G-D of abraham.
2007-12-18 15:31:11 · answer #8 · answered by Meatwad 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Read James 1:5-8.
2007-12-18 15:29:04 · answer #9 · answered by Averell A 7 · 1⤊ 3⤋
maybe you need to see Jesus in a new light. He is my Friend, my light in the darkest times,the one that I can count on to Love me even when everyone else turns their own way.
the only one that I can trust to give me the truth when all others allow fear to hinder the truth in them.
2007-12-18 15:37:41 · answer #10 · answered by hmm 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋