C.S. Lewis on Prayer: A Guide for the Perplexed

Prayer is a central aspect of the Christian faith, and C.S. Lewis, one of the most influential Christian writers of the 20th century, had much to say about it. In this article, we will explore C.S. Lewis's insights on prayer, providing a guide for those who seek to deepen their understanding of this important spiritual practice.

The Importance of Prayer

According to Lewis, prayer is not primarily about getting things from God. Instead, it is about connecting with God and aligning our wills with His. He writes, "Prayer is not asking. Prayer is putting oneself in the hands of God, at His disposition, and listening to His voice in the depth of one's own being."

The Different Forms of Prayer

Lewis distinguishes between three main types of prayer:

• Adoration: This type of prayer is focused on praising and thanking God for who He is.
• Petition: This type of prayer is used to ask God for things we need or desire.
• Intercession: This type of prayer is where we pray for others, asking God to meet their needs and bless them.

The Challenges of Prayer

Lewis acknowledges that prayer can be difficult at times. We may struggle to believe that God hears us, or we may find ourselves distracted during prayer. However, he encourages us to persevere in prayer, even when it is challenging. He writes, "The great thing is to accept it [prayer] and practise it as a discipline, like the exercise of the piano."

The Power of Prayer

Despite the challenges, Lewis believed that prayer is a powerful force in our lives. He writes, "Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays." Through prayer, we can grow closer to God, learn to trust Him more fully, and experience His transformative power in our lives.

Practical Tips for Prayer

Lewis offers several practical tips for those who want to improve their prayer life:

• Make time for prayer: Set aside specific times each day for prayer, even if it is just for a few minutes.
• Choose a quiet place: Find a place where you can be free from distractions and focus on connecting with God.
• Be honest with God: Don't try to impress God with eloquent words. Simply talk to Him as you would a friend.
• Listen for God's voice: Prayer is not just about talking to God; it is also about listening to what He has to say.
• Be persistent: Don't give up on prayer, even when you don't feel like it.

C.S. Lewis's insights on prayer provide a valuable guide for those who seek to deepen their understanding and practice of this important spiritual discipline. By embracing the importance of prayer, exploring its different forms, overcoming the challenges, and following practical tips, we can experience the transformative power of connecting with God through prayer.