By Alice Whitehall // Empowerment // EEW Magazine Online

We often hear that prayer changes things. We quote Bible verses about prayer being powerful and effective. We sing songs that proclaim, if you call on Jesus, He will answer prayer.

While all these things are true, if we are not conscious about making prayer a consistent part of our lives, all the sayings, verses, and songs become powerless cliches.

As a woman of faith, when you feel that urge to take your prayer life to the next level, don’t ignore it. God is calling you higher for a purpose.

If you know it’s time to ascend, and you are truly ready to  strengthen your communication with the Father, start here with these 6 Bible passages EEW Magazine Online recommends.

#1 “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 NIV)

Because you have accepted Christ as your savior, through Him, you have a direct channel to God. Jesus intercedes for you! So, take full advantage of the access you have attained. As often as you need to, come boldly, with no hesitation, to the throne of grace. Exercise your authority. Cry out with all your might, and surely God will respond.

#2 “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” Psalm 145:18 (ESV)

The Lord is never out of reach, and He will give ear to your prayers, so long as your request is made in faith. Pray with a sincere heart and full confidence that what you have asked for in submission to God's will is already on its way.

#3 “The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.” Proverbs 15:8 (NIV)

Since you have been made righteous by the blood of Jesus, there are benefits to be enjoyed. One of them is knowing that God delights in your prayers. He loves giving you your heart’s desires—that is, when your desires align with His plan. Don’t waste your benefits. Ask God for what you need.

#4 “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.” Colossians 4:2 (NLT)

This verse means be earnest, diligent, and give yourself completely over to prayer. When you are communing with God, focus your mind on Him in all sincerity. Also, when you make your petition, don’t neglect to offer up thanksgiving for blessings received in the past as well as blessings to come.

#5 “Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

Don’t stop. Simple as that. Always let a prayer be in your heart and on your lips. Whether it is a prayer for your family, friends, enemies, leaders, or yourself, praying should be as constant and natural as breathing. After all, it is a strategic weapon against the enemy and a guaranteed way to get God’s attention.

6.) “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

Ever heard the saying, "Closed mouths don’t get fed” or “The squeaky wheel gets the oil”? In other words, when you have a need, open your mouth and say so. Tell the Lord and keep on telling Him. Your persistence leads to blessings and favor. God never gets tired of listening, so never get tired of calling on Him!

Listen, every believer has room to grow in their prayer life, so be purposeful and intentional about this aspect of your spiritual journey.

If you make the investment, you will take your prayer life to the next level which will yield great – and eternal – returns.