Devotion Topic: In His Name—A Prayer Lifestyle Defined Key Thought: To live a prayerful life "in His name" is to make prayer as essential as the breath of the soul, following Christ’s example of continual communion with God, and allowing prayer to shape our daily living, character, and service. Scripture Foundation: John 14:13-14 – “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” Main Points: 1. Prayer as the Breath of the Soul - “To him prayer was as the breath of the soul. He lived in the atmosphere of heaven.” (8T 330.1; GW 52.3) - Just as we cannot live without breathing, so our spiritual life cannot thrive without prayer. 2. Christ’s Example—A Life Between the Mountain and the Multitude - “The life must be like Christ's life—between the mountain and the multitude. He who does nothing but pray will soon cease to pray, or his prayers will become a formal routine.” (SC 101.1) - Jesus balanced time alone in prayer with active service, showing that prayer empowers us for ministry and daily duties. 3. The Necessity of Private and Public Prayer - “He did not, however, discountenance public prayer, for He Himself prayed with His disciples and in the presence of the multitude. But He teaches that private prayer is not to be made public. In secret devotion our prayers are to reach the ears of none but the prayer-hearing God.” (MB 83) - Both private and public prayers are important, but sincerity and humility are key. 4. Daily Prayer—A Habit for Growth - “Daily prayer is as essential to growth in grace, and even to spiritual life itself, as is temporal food to physical well-being. We should accustom ourselves to lift the thoughts often to God in prayer.” (SL 93) - Developing a habit of prayer keeps us connected to Christ and strengthens our character. 5. Prayer in Community and Nature - “We prayed much with and for one another. We assembled in the orchards and groves to commune with God and to offer up our petitions to Him, feeling more fully in His presence when surrounded by His natural works.” (LS 60.3) - Praying together and in nature can deepen our sense of God’s presence. Application: - Make prayer a continual part of your day, not just a routine or formality. - Seek both private moments with God and opportunities to pray with others. - Let your prayers be sincere, focused on God’s will, and offered in Jesus’ name. - Allow prayer to shape your actions, character, and service to others. Closing Thought: A true prayer lifestyle is not about withdrawing from life, but about living every moment in conscious connection with God, empowered by His Spirit, and guided by Christ’s example. References: - White, E. G. (1904). Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 330.1. - White, E. G. (1915). Gospel Workers, p. 52.3. - White, E. G. (1892). Steps to Christ, p. 101.1. - White, E. G. (1896). Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 83. - White, E. G. (1889). Steps to Christ, p. 93. - White, E. G. (1915). Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, p. 60.3. Would you like a suggested prayer or discussion questions to accompany this devotion?