Most people would consider the practice of prayer as the means of getting what one might want from their God, but true biblical prayer is much more than just asking.

During the “Sermon on the Mount” Jesus included instruction on how to pray. When we examine His lesson on prayer, we see that He introduces prayer as first giving praise to God.

Jesus said, start like this, “Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9-10).

Prayer that is meaningful, effective, and joyful is prayer that starts with praise of God. It begins with turning our eyes upon the God we are approaching in prayer and recognizing His character.

When we talk to someone, it’s considered good manners to look them in the eyes, so why should talking to God require any less? Now obviously we can’t look into God’s physical eyes, but we can focus on Him as we begin to pray. Looking someone in the eyes during a conversation is not only good manners it is showing respect and attentiveness to listening.

It is difficult to listen to someone if you’re preoccupied with yourself, dwelling on your problems, or worried about how you appear. When you have problems, turn to the One who can solve them.

Prayer that begins with praise of God’s character is meaningful, effective, and powerful. The dictionary uses the words value, approval, merit, adoration, commendation, admiration, and worship to define what praise means.

Starting with praise means that we begin by recognizing the God we are calling upon. We behold Him. We mentally approach Him and pause as we focus upon Him. We think before we speak, we fix our purpose upon Him before we open our mouth, and we praise before we petition.

Prayer that starts with praise is fruitful prayer. When we as sinful fallen humanity turn our eyes upon the attributes of the One who created us, died for us, saved us, and unconditionally loved us, our prayers will radically change us. As we consider His goodness, mercy, kindness, love, and righteousness, our prayers will become channels of His transforming power.

“Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” (Psalm 107:8). Scripture beckons us to come to the Lord in praise and join with the Psalmist in exclaiming “my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips” (Psalm 63:5).

Prayer that begins with praise of God is powerful. It may sound crazy to you, but try it. Let your practice of prayer be about praising the Lord and discover it’s power for yourself.