Are you satisfied with your prayer life? Most of us realize we often fall short in this essential discipline. Even the most mature believers recognize their need for occasional growth. One very effective way to improve our prayers is to study the prayers of others in Scripture.

Many of Saint Paul's prayers are recorded throughout his epistles, and they can provide insight into how to pray. In today's passage, we see two key principles for powerful, effective prayer. First, we observe Humble Adoration. Paul's posture on bent knees reminds us of his submissive stance before God. Secondly, we see Paul's focus on God, our Father. His prayer life was rooted in the Holy Trinity.

Paul understood that God the Father adopts all believers into His family, that magnificent riches are found through God the Son, and that God the Holy Spirit has endless power. The many requests Paul made for the Ephesians were based on God's unlimited abilities, resources, and power.

Of the many black-and-white photos from our childhood, my mom treasured this picture and had it colorized. It shows my brother and me as young boys on bent knees, seeking the Lord as we were taught.

Friends, as God's children, we can confidently approach the throne of grace at any time. What a joy and privilege it is to seek our Father in humble adoration at any time!

Onward and Upward+ Fr. Greg