“And the word became flesh…” (John 1:14)
My heart is aching, LORD. My heart aches for you, Lord. 
Does this expression resonate with you? Have you ever wondered, “How do I pray when I’m hurting?” Do you find relief and intimacy with God, or do you often get stuck at times of pain, depression or challenge?
How to go deeper in prayer is the subject, because it is in going deep into prayer that we get closer to Jesus.
I am residing in Spain. It is a recent shift from Canada. My husband’s work and our desire to be in full time Christian service has led us here. (To learn more about my personal journey, you can check out my blog: A Life Examined.)
After my husband and two of his colleagues were doing a Bible study on 1 John recently, we discussed it.
I said, “John (including John’s Gospel, the three letters, and Revelations) is so different from any other Biblical writing. All the writers are different from each other. But John is different in that LOVE is so clear: Jesus’ love, and John’s love for his audience as well. The gentleness and commitment is pervasive.”
Alan replied, “John just says in every way, “Just get to know Jesus. Just get to know him and everything will make sense. Just get to know Jesus.”
In prayer, just get to know Jesus and everything else – even the pain, frustration, and hurt – will all begin to make sense.
In prayer, I feel empty, and tell Him of the ache I feel. In this instance, it leads me to confession. (Another time it may lead to request or forgiveness or the release of sorrow from another’s hurt.)
My example of a dialogue with Jesus:
“I’m sorry, Lord, for losing my temper. I’m sorry. You feel far away.” I pause.
I wait.
Then comes a feeling of release and peace, of residing in his presence.
“I’m ready, Lord, for this next chapter.”
I’ve met with him and he with me.
Ready: Deep prayer requires honesty. Deep prayer requires time, patience, and faith. It includes a sense of responsibility. The conversation could go in any direction, once you’ve laid down your burden. Be open and prepared to follow whichever way he leads you, and you will be restored.
“The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:1-3)
Deep prayer starts with where you are now and takes you to where God wants you to be.
Deep prayer releases, frees, answers, comforts, and moves you forward.
Set: Settle yourself with Jesus. “The word became flesh” and that has made all the difference. He understands.
Go: Wherever you now, start here. Hide nothing, and take your time with Jesus. He’ll move you, from where you are to where you need to be… for him, for yourself, for your family, witness and calling.
It’s all about connecting with Jesus.