Man, if you wanted to learn about the importance of prayer, this is your book. I loved the different variety of people that was used to put this book together. The energy and wisdom of each individual plays a really key role in helping people understand the role and value of prayer. I would be happy to give this book to someone who is seeking what it looks like to have or develop a prayer life. Great resource.

What is prayer?  How do you pray?  These questions and other topics on prayer such as  persistence, possibilities, expectations and hindrances are addressed in the recently published "How to Live a Life of Prayer: Classic Christian Writers on the Divine Privilege of Prayer".  E.M. Bounds,  S.D.Gordon, Andrew Murray, and  John Wesley each practiced and experienced the effects of prayer on a daily basis.  They have many stories about how God answered their prayers, but you won't find their testimonies in this book. Instead, we are fortunate to have access to  their beliefs and how they used those beliefs to communicate with the God they served.

E.M. Bounds wrote "Nothing is surer than that the Word of God is the sure foundation of prayer.  We pray just as we believe God's Word. Prayer is based directly and specifically upon God's revealed promises in Christ Jesus."* This is a powerful statement and is an example of the kind of thought-provoking statements you'll find throughout the book.  This book isn't meant to read quickly. It's meant to cause pause for reflection, and to give inspiration for your own prayer life.

I wasn't immediately drawn to the layout of this book.  Rather than being a bindup of books by each author, it was divided by topics with each author's thoughts on that topic. In the beginning it felt disconnected, as if you weren't getting the full viewpoint, but soon I came to appreciate the layout and realized it was beneficial.  Instead of just being a book to read, "How to Live A Life of Prayer" can be used for topical studies, quick references and is a good choice for book clubs. It's a book I'll often revisit because the information is easily accessible.

This is one of the most comprehensive books on prayer that I've read and I highly recommend it.  Keep in mind that because it is written by four different men you may not agree with everything, but there is so much to ponder that you won't be disappointed with the things you learn.

*Quote from How to Live a Life of Prayer, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. Used by permission.

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

My Personal Rating: 4.63           Star Rating: 5/5

How To Live ALife Of Prayer Is an incredible devotional. All I'm going to do is quote from their book for you to see how awesome it is. They say," GOD will answer those who believe in HIM and HIS power when they come to HIM, asking, seeking and knocking with their entire beings. HIS SON JESUS is the conduit of THEIR voices. HIS HOLY SPIRIT the INTERPRETER. Thus, this thing called prayer is the believers vital link and lifeline to the All-powerful TRINITY in which they live, move and have their being." doesn't that say it all?

Prayer is an area that so many Christians struggle with. How do I pray? When should I pray? What should/can I pray about? Does God answer prayers still? This book provides insight into all those questions and so much more!

I love that the contributers span time, and that their wisdom is just as applicable today as it was when they wrote it. A great addition to any believer's library!