"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV

Homeschooling our children can be one of the most challenging aspects of our adult life. The focus, energy, creativity and discipline it requires can seem overwhelming. Some days are easier than others, but then there are those days when all we can do is pray and all that comes out is one word, "Help!" May I make a suggestion? Don't wait until things get bad, rather, pray without ceasing!

But what about those days when your 8 year old doesn't understand the math problem you've just explained three times (and starts to cry), while your 12 and 10 year old boys are wrestling in the living room over a pencil instead of doing their writing assignment (causing more crying), and your 6 and 3 year old are standing at the sliding door looking in but not entering because they are covered in mud - this being autumn, it is still cold (and they shiver and whine), and your toddling baby just fell and hit her head – again (much crying from her). And, of course, you can barely hear your husband as he calls to ask what's for dinner and to remind you of the Bible Study which will be held at your house in a few hours (at which point you start to cry!) As I have actually lived these kinds of days out all too often, I have learned one of the essentials of survival: continual prayer! Let me share with you how, even in the midst of the most trying of circumstances, we can be at peace and can walk through it all in victory.

Continual Prayer

What does continual prayer mean? How can we practically do this? Here's my take on it: we are in a relationship with Jesus Christ. In any relationship, there must be conversation. Prayer is merely conversation. Conversation requires speaking and listening. These are things we can do any time, all the time, and at consistent times. Let me explain.

Any Time

There is never a wrong time to pray. When and where we speak to God does not have to be confined to a time and place but we are free to have a continual conversation with our Father through Jesus Christ. We can speak to God throughout the day and the night. The million dollar question is, do we? Do we pray anytime or do we wait for the crisis? I sometimes find myself speaking to myself trying to reason things out in my own understanding rather than speaking to God and asking for His wisdom. If you find yourself doing the same, just redirect the conversation heavenward. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.

All the Time 

We can speak to our Heavenly Father all the time. We must strive to keep the conversation going throughout the day. Don't let it drop on your end. Pick it back up and get it going again. We must continue the conversation. A conversation requires both speaking and listening. Then, as issues come up – and they will – you will be ready in an attitude of prayer and better able to respond in the Spirit instead of the flesh.