But Jesus would often go to some place where he could be alone and pray. (Luke 5:16 CEV)
Some married couples have a favorite restaurant where they go for important nights out. They love the atmosphere. They find it easy to talk in that environment, and they look forward to going there. It’s a special place in their relationship.
Some families have a regular vacation spot that feels almost like a second home to them. Great things happen to the family there; special memories are created.
In a similar way, when you create a secret place where you can really pray, over time you will forward to going there. You will begin to appreciate the familiar surroundings, sights, and smells. You will grow to love the aura of the place where you freely converse with God.
I created such a prayer room near the credenza in a corner of my office. In my prayer place I put an open Bible, a sign that says God is able, a crown of thorns to remind me of the suffering Savior, and a shepherd’s staff that I often hold up while making requests.
That office corner became a holy place for me. There I communed with the Lord. I poured out my heart to him, worshipped him, prayed for member of my congregation and received remarkable answers to prayer.
If you want to learn how to pray, find yourself a quiet place free of distractions. Go there during the best part of your day. Meet with the Lord there regularly, every day.
[from Too Busy Not to Pray by Bill Hybels.]