What is Prayer, and How Does it Differ from Meditation?
Prayer is a conversation with God; meditation is when you allow God to speak to you. In one, you are the talker; in the other, you are the listener. Let's explore the difference between the two.
Prayer: Talking to God
When you pray, what does it mean to talk to God? Is it a series of wishes, desires, complaints, and bargains, or is it an expression of gratitude, thanksgiving, and love? God is an all-encompassing universal cosmic energy that has created and controlled the universe. Just as a farmer knows his crops and a scientist understands his inventions, the Creator knows each of us and our journeys.
Approaching God with a list of demands or requests is like stating the obvious to Him and may limit what we receive. We don’t know the full extent of His plans for us, and there might be a grander design awaiting us than we can imagine. For instance, if we ask for a house, job, car, or child, we might restrict ourselves to those specific things without realizing that our journey might have something far greater.
Instead, consider repeating this affirmation to the universal energy: "What’s best for my highest growth and potential is flowing to me with ease and joy." Allow universal energy to decide what’s best for you and remain open to receiving it. This approach can bring joy, peace, and happiness into your life.
Next Steps: Listening to God
In our next blog, we will discuss the practice of listening to God. Try approaching prayer with a different energy and orientation, focusing on openness and gratitude. You'll soon see the positive changes this brings into your life.