1. Why Talk?

This book began with a deep urge to write about conversational prayer - prayer that is two-way and involves listening as well as talking. As Christians, we talk to God in many ways both formally and informally. The differences reflect not only our variety of culture, tradition and personality, but also the mystery that our relationship with God has different facets. These include the relationship between Holy Almighty God and mortal men and women, between creator and creature, between King and servant, between Father and child, between the closest of friends, and between the indwelling Holy Spirit and our own spirits. It seems to me that it is this latter special and precious relationship that particularly enables a conversational style of prayer. God has given us his Holy Spirit to dwell with us and within us. However, while we freely acknowledge and give thanks for inspiration, for guidance, for consolation, and for encouragement, the idea of attributing language in human words to the Spirit 's inner prompting is often difficult. Yet this is what happened to the writers of the Scriptures and to many other men and women over the ages. How can we learn to hear God's voice within us? Perhaps in the same way as a small child learns language from a parent - word by word.

So there came the urge to write about conversational prayer - conversation with God. Then came the realization that since we cannot even turn to God without being nudged or prompted by the Spirit, the urge to write must have come from God himself. Dare I try and put human words to this deep preverbal prompt?

Listening

My son, I want you to write a book so that you can share with people the lessons I have taught you about listening to my voice, about putting human words to my voice, and about the practice of conversational prayer.

And my response: -

Praying

Lord, I have never done anything like this before. My writing style is fairly formal and scientific - and I think that I speak better than I write."

Thinking

To write or type these words out in their black and white human form had a curious effect. It was as though the prompt to my spirit had been acknowledged, freeing the Holy Spirit to change or add to the direction of my thoughts.

Listening

Look at the way that your style has developed over many years. I am the one who has been shaping your thoughts and experiences. It is now time to take a step further and put these things into print so that they can be shared with a wider group of my people. I will guide you - even word by word.

The conversation then continued - see Chapter 3 - The Remit.

Thinking

This concept and style of prayer - conversation with God that captures in human words the deep preverbal voice of the Spirit - may be new to you the reader. Stay with me to explore whether this can be a new experience and gift of God to you. There is always a need to pray formally and liturgically both in private and public prayer, but listening to God's voice brings the reality of his presence closer thereby complementing our more formal praise and worship.

But first, there is a need to review two other experiences that grew my spirit, prepared me to hear the voice of Our Lord, and encouraged me to share these thoughts with you.

Copyright Howard Smith 2002. All Rights reserved.

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