First of all, what is prayer? Prayer is the act of communicating with God. It doesn’t have to consist of the standard prayers we learned as a child. A prayer can consist of a simple phrase or two. “Lord, I’m thinking of you today. Please brighten my day and assist me in all that I do.”

An essential aspect of daily prayer is the belief that you are communicating with God. It is also vitally important that you have faith that your prayers will be answered. There are numerous passages from the bible extolling the virtues of prayer. The bible says:

“…prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well...” James 5:15

“Pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

“Prayer produces prosperity.” Jeremiah 29:7

“Prayer provides wisdom.” James 1:4

“Prayer yields peace.” Phil 4:6-7

Personally, I like to engage in meditative prayer. Meditative prayers are series of prayers that are repeated over and over. My prayer of choice is the Rosary, which I say on a regular basis. A string of beads, called Rosary beads, are used to keep track of the prayers as they are recited. The Rosary allows me to focus on a particular subject as the prayers are repeated. Sometimes I’ll focus on my relationship with the Lord. Other times I’ll focus on a special request that I might have. In either case, I find it very relaxing, almost soothing. Although I have no proof, I believe that my blood pressure is lower when I engage in prayer. I also feel renewed and refreshed after a session of prayer. It’s similar to a form of meditation where a mantra is repeated over and over.

That brings me to the point of this article, five reasons to pray.

1. Numerous scientific studies indicate that prayer can have significant beneficial effects. These studies have shown that those who pray regularly tend to be happier, more peaceful, and healthier than those who don't.

2. Pray on a regular basis. That way, when the inevitable day comes and you finally arrive at the pearly gates, the Lord will recognize you.

3. Prayers are answered if you truly believe. This is the basis for the popular program called The Law of Attraction. In fact, the main thesis for this and the entire positive thinking industry is a quote taken directly from the bible:

“…all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” Matthew 21:22

4. Pray for your children, your spouse, your parents, and yourself. Aren’t they worth it?

5. As I mentioned above, I find it very relaxing and feel that my blood pressure is lower when I pray. Your blood pressure doctor will thank you for it.

For those of you who say you don’t have the time to pray, you can use one of the many prayer CD’s that will lead you in prayer. You can play the CD in your car during your commute or in a portable CD player while walking or exercising. This is an excellent way to make your time more productive. We offer an excellent prayer CD on our site, The Prayer Center and Holy Rosary on CD. Visit us at:

http://mysite.verizon.net/vzer1vjr/jomark/RosaryCD.html