Prayer: The Necessity of Constant Prayer

E.M. Bounds wrote in "Power Through Prayer" that prayer is the most important activity of the Christian life. "What the church needs today is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more and novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use -- men of prayer, men mighty in prayer." Bounds believed that prayer was not simply one duty among many, but the duty from which all others flowed. He observed that prayerless ministry, no matter how gifted, produces no lasting fruit.

Practical application: Set aside the first portion of each day for prayer before engaging in any work or ministry. Begin with five minutes of focused prayer, gradually extending the time. Keep a prayer journal to track petitions and answers. The goal is not lengthy prayers but consistent, heartfelt communion with God.

As Bounds wrote, "The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees. He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits than seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day."