Have you ever prayed out loud? Alone? There are some great men of God in history who would walk into the woods, sit on the ground or on a stump, and start talking to God! Maybe this is easier for people, like myself, who often talk out loud to themselves! Often when I walk, I talk out loud through a sermon. Hearing the words come from my mouth help me clarify my thoughts, discard phrases or illustrations, and include things I had not previously given much thought.
I have found that praying out loud when I am alone also gives me a different perspective in prayer. For me:
1. The audible prayer makes the conversation more natural!
2. The audible prayer prevents my arch enemy of silent prayer - sleepiness!
3. The audible prayer is particularly helpful for giving God praise and thanks!
4. The audible prayer sometimes stops me in my tracks as I hear my words! I realize how "off" I am or "petty" I am in some of my praying!
5. The audible prayer also helps me to arrive at more serious praying - more intercession - more praying along the desires of the Father's heart!
6. The audible prayer makes me less aware of time - and more aware of praying and communion with God!
7. The audible prayer, for me, then makes it easier to talk and then listen - talk and then listen.
The primary challenge to audible praying is not shyness - but location. I do it when I walk - or when I am at home alone for lunch. Sometimes I pray out loud when I drive -but find myself interrupted in thougth by the required alertness for driving. I'm not suggesting this is THE way to pray - but it is another way - and I think you might find it refreshing from time to time!
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