In his talk “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer” Elder Richard G Scott begins by explaining that prayer is a gift from God for each of us. He tells us that prayer gives us each the opportunity to speak to Heavenly Father, and to ask for guidance and blessings when we are in need of them.
Everyone has been given this gift.
Elder Scott then goes on to speak of how we are to pray. He says that prayer is the most effective when we maintain personal worthiness. He also says not to worry about how awkward you may feel that Heavenly Father is listening and loves you. Elder Scott says:
“A key to improved prayer is to learn to ask the right questions. Consider changing from asking for the things you want to honestly seeking what He wants for you. Then as you learn His will, pray that you will be led to have the strength to fulfill it.”
Elder Scott says that there may be times when we may not feel like praying or that we may have made mistakes and do not feel worthy to pray. These are the times that we need to pray the most. Elder Scott says to begin praying until we begin to feel connected to Heavenly Father again.
Elder Scott also shares an experience when he was very distressed over something. He turned to prayer to find a solution. As he struggled with the problem, an answer did not come, but he found peace the next day. He knew it was an answer to his prayers. Elder Scott explains that the times we need to pray urgently for guidance and answers are the times when our testimonies of prayer will be strengthened.
Elder Scott encourages us to study President Hinckley’s prayer that he gave at the end of the October 2001 General Conference. You can find a copy of the prayer in Elder Scott’s footnotes. This is an excellent example of how to pray sincerely.
Elder Scott then goes on to talk about the answers to prayers. Elder Scott points out that the answer may not come all at once. Your answer may come a bit at a time as you need the answers. Elder Scott points out the answer may be difficult to accept if it is contrary to your desire, but it is important that you realize that the answer is for your good. Elder Scott encourages us to study the counsel given to Oliver Cowdery about prayer.
This is wonderful counsel about prayer. I hope that you will take the time to read this talk and apply its teachings to your life. Prayer is a powerful tool in bringing you peace, comfort and guidance.
Related Articles:
Personal Prayer and How It Soothes the Soul
Using Personal Prayer to Listen to the Lord
Primary Time: “Heavenly Father Hears and Answers Prayers”