Daniel was a man of exacting prayer. He knew how to pray and what to pray for. For instance, in the midst of a crisis caused by King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel prayed specifically, precisely, and earnestly. He had two requests: That God would reveal the secret of the king’s dream, and that God would preserve and protect Daniel and his three friends (Daniel 2:18). God tells us that “in everything,” whether it’s a crisis or not, to “let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).
You don’t need to clue God in on what’s happening. No, “your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8). And you don’t need to persuade God to hear you. His love for you does not need to be coaxed or induced. He is always available and with you.
But God’s desire is that you still “ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be open to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8).
Because God knows your every need, there’s no need to pray with “vain repetitions” (Matthew 6:7). Like Daniel and his three friends, keep your prayers brief and specific. Then wait for God’s specific reply.
Experience a deeper intimacy with God and give new life to your prayers as you find clear direction on how to pray God’s way in all of life’s hardships and blessings in Knowing God Through Prayer by Jim George.