The Glorious Gift of Prayer

My intent today is to share a brief message about the greatest communication system in the universe. No equipment is needed. The only requirements to use it are humility, faith, and a willingness to open our hearts through words or thoughts.

What is this great communication system? It is prayer.

God, our magnificent Heavenly Father, loves us, as does His son, the Master, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Because they love us, they want to bless us and help us in any way they can. To this end, they created and blessed us with the gift of prayer. There is no communication system equal in its capabilities. Through it, in an instant, we can contact the most powerful and glorious being(s) in the universe.

President Thomas S. Monson, in his 2009 talk, Be Your Best Self, given during the priesthood session of LDS General Conference, stated the following:

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To those within the sound of my voice who are struggling with challenges and difficulties large and small, prayer is the provider of spiritual strength; it is the passport to peace. Prayer is the means by which we approach our Father in Heaven, who loves us. Speak to Him in prayer and then listen for the answer. Miracles are wrought through prayer.

I know for myself that what President Monson taught is true. I can't begin to count the number of times when I've been discouraged and feeling down and turned to the Lord in prayer for comfort. There has never been a time when the Lord left me comfortless. The answers haven't always been immediate, or overwhelming, but they have always come. I know through prayer, and by the power of the Holy Ghost, that God is there, and that He loves me. I've felt His love envelop me from head to toe. In my own personal Gethsemane's I've felt His loving embrace and my soul has been given that peace which surpasses all understanding. I know God and Christ are there, they are real, and they hear and answer prayer.

For anyone reading this who may be struggling with any of life's challenges, I commend to you President Monson's recommendation. Take advantage of the passport to peace, even prayer, and approach your loving Heavenly Father with humble faith. If you will, I can promise you that He will hear your prayers and come to your aid, in His own way and time -- with the timing that is best for you. Trust Him, and all will work out right.

Author

Randy McNeely is a father of five, an aspiring author as well as a singer/songwriter. He has written several patriotic songs, children’s songs and multiple religious hymns, including Oh Jesus, Savior of Mankind, which won a Special Recognition award in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 2008 Music Submission contest.