“My husband and I are heavily involved in the missional church conversation, which most of the time sounds like 'gospel' but at times sounds like 'blah blah blah.' (Sorry, I have some church baggage yet to shed.) We're definitely all in, but sometimes all the modern language thrown around by pastor types bogs me down.... Prayer seems simple in comparison.” Thus the author introduces us to her latest devotional and demonstrates her light-hearted approach to a complex subject.

All the world's religions have prayer of some kind. It is basically a form of communication with whatever entity the petitioner puts his faith in. Prayer can be for thanksgiving, for petition, or for worship. It can be spontaneous or a ritual, sung, spoken or done silently. Prayer helps the one who is praying to focus and gain understanding.

"If you are a believer or a seeker, PRAYING GOD'S WORD FOR YOUR LIFE will provide you with comfort and inspiration along with some smiles."

While prayer is a personal thing, there seems to be as many approaches to praying as there are people willing to share their insights by writing books and articles about the subject. There are those who are convinced that God will only answer prayers that are prayed solemnly, with head bowed and hands clasped. And some believe that prayers need to be spoken in King James English, replete with the proper thees and thous. However, I know that God will answer a prayer as simple as “Help!” In reality, both extremes can be equally effective.

Kathi Lipp has provided the reader with some excellent ways for Christians to communicate with God. She has followed examples from the Bible itself when the Patriarchs and Prophets often prayed God's own words back to him. This helps the one who is praying to learn more about God while putting his current situation into perspective. Lipp has taken many common needs and situations and matched them to specific verses of scripture that address them. It's amazing to realize that a book written over a thousand years ago has relevance for today's people.     

Whether you are overwhelmed at work, are struggling in your marriage, have health issues, or are in despair over something you cannot control, there are Biblical ways to pray for all of these things. If your heart is filled with joy, thanksgiving and hope, there are scriptures that will help you express yourself. And Lipp's down-to-earth, conversational style will never make you feel inadequate. Her practical suggestions will inspire you to set time aside each day to pray --- to communicate with God, speak and listen.

Each chapter deals with an area of life that most of us can relate to. Lipp introduces the topic with a personal story, told in her easy, conversational style. Then she selects a scripture that applies to that particular topic and follows it with a suggested prayer using the scripture.What a great way to add to our understanding of the word. In addition, she offers several practical steps that can be taken to achieve some immediate results or solutions.

From the chapter “When You're Worried”: The scripture: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7) The prayer: Abba Father, you care about me! And not just about the big picture of my life, but about every single tiny detail. Thank you, Jesus, for caring for me.... If you are a believer or a seeker, PRAYING GOD'S WORD FOR YOUR LIFE will provide you with comfort and inspiration along with some smiles.