Prayer: A Powerful Principle
Prayer, both a modern and ancient practice, is how we remain connected and dependent on God. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages us to pray (make requests, worship, and stay in communication with God).
Some teachers liken praying without ceasing to an intermittent cough! Just as someone who is sick might cough throughout the day, we are to pray constantly—turning our hearts back to God again and again.
What a powerful play on words to help us understand what continual prayer looks like!
BRAIN SCANS SHOW THAT PEOPLE WHO PRAY REGULARLY ACTIVATE THE PARTS OF THE BRAIN RESPONSIBLE FOR SELF-CONTROL AND MANAGING EMOTIONS
Studies show that prayer can:
Strengthen Brain Connections
Increase Emotional Regulation
Reduce Stress
Allow Greater Control Over the Brain
Strengthen the Brain’s Ability to Plan/Focus
Activate the Brain’s Reward System
SO, PRAYING KEEPS ME CLOSE TO GOD, BUT ALSO IMPROVES MY BRAIN AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH?
Yes! That's exactly right. Praying keeps you close to God AND supports your brain's ability to function. Just like exercise strengthens our muscles, regular prayer can strengthen the parts of our brain that help us make good decisions, manage our feelings, reduce stress, and strengthen the brain's ability to focus and function.
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