Ivor Bailey prayed: “I enjoy talking to you every night, Lord. I tell you what’s on my mind—the things that bug me, the people I meet, the challenges I face, questions I can’t answer.

“Because you’re my friend, I don’t feel I have to dress up or use out-dated language. I can relax with you.

“Isn’t that what prayer is all about, Lord? You and I sharing things we think are important. Thank you, Lord.”

Besides the Lord’s Prayer this is another excellent way to approach prayer—just share with God what’s on your heart, what’s on your mind, what you are feeling, your joys, sorrows, and so on.

Sharing feelings is what intimacy, communication and connection are all about—not only with people, but also with God. We can do this not only at night but anytime, anywhere.

Suggested prayer: “Dear God, help me to be open, honest, and real with you. You desire truth in the innermost being. Help me to share my inner truth with you—the good, the bad, the indifferent—share it all, God, no matter what. Thank you for hearing, accepting all my feelings, and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:17.