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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Dear Rev. Graham: I saw a family praying before their meal in a restaurant. My friends who were with me scoffed and said it was an insincere display. Why are some so skeptical of an outward expression of faith in God? — P.F.

Dear P.F.: The Bible says that we should “give ourselves continually to prayer” (Acts 6:4) and what a wonderful example that can be. True prayer is a way of life, not just for use in cases of emergency. We should make prayer a habit. By doing so, it will not be unnatural when we find ourselves in need of God’s help. We should never be too busy to pray.
Habits can often become rituals that make no impact, but prayer is a vital link in having strength and endurance. The old saying, “A family that prays together, stays together” carries a lot of weight.
Prayer drives people to God — and God is ready to listen and answer. What a privilege that so many families miss out on. Prayer unifies and energizes the family unit. It can be a reminder that we do not have to go out into the world without the power of God going with us. Only by direct contact with God through prayer can we hope to have the serenity and security that will enable us to be a witness for Him in a dark and confused world.
The practice of prayer also equips family members to pray effectively amid the pressures of jobs, school, and community relations. The home is the best place to learn spiritual lessons such as these.
Prayer is the best way to prepare for whatever is in store for us in the critical and testing times of life. When difficulties come, we don’t have to be dependent on the circumstances around us, but on the hidden resource within us — and that is God Himself.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)