In the mid-1970s, a gifted couple were putting together a series of Bible studies to help equip church leaders across Africa. At one point, they found themselves mulling over the program’s course on prayer. “What name can we give it that best identifies the heart of this important practice?” Fred and Grace Holland* wondered.
Since that time, the textbook “Talking with God” – a modest-sized publication bearing an attractive green-tint cover design – continues enjoying wide usage across the continent.
If steady, prevailing prayer reflects the life rhythms of a maturing Christian, those who engage the praying discipline find themselves in very good company. From Abraham to Daniel and from Hannah, the mother of Samuel to Hannah the widow in the temple where baby Jesus was dedicated. The practice of talking with God has, through much of history, served to form his people toward a different kind of humanity. Christ’s apprentices coming to exhibit his nature.
“Talking with” implies something other than a one-way conversation. In listening attentively to God’s voice – spoken through the revealed word (holy scripture) and through impressions and promptings brought forward from his own indwelling presence – the believer grows receptive to Christ’s own “way of being.” Like a caterpillar-turned-butterfly, change is underway from inside out.
As one’s own heart then finds voice (silently or verbally) – offering up thanksgivings, petitions, groanings – or bursts of joyful praise, a longed-for resemblance to God’s son takes form. Apprentices of Jesus, habituating themselves in their talking-with-God discipline, take on over time, just a little bit more of the likeness of their Lord. His graces: Goodness. Patience. Meekness.
Loving kindness…
As the writer of “Celebration of Discipline” put it, “The primary purpose of prayer is to bring us into such a life of communion with the Father that, by the power of the Spirit, we are increasingly conformed to the image of the Son.”** *“Theol Edu” by Extension **“Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home,” Richard J. Foster – ©2025 Jerry Lout Writer/Speaker Jerry Lout grew up in Okmulgee County. Jerry’s “Living with a Limp” and “Giants in the Rough” are available through Amazon. Current projects include “Inside-Out” and “Thresholds” – a string of narratives highlighting surprises, sorrows and adventure in the post-Africa years. Jerry welcomes reader comments at jerrylout@gmail.com and 918-857-4373.
