Has the idea of prayer ever intimidated you, as if real prayers can only be prayed by an elite few? Sometimes prayer can come across as a secret, exclusive art, like, “If you know, you know.” Now let’s instead reframe that “IYKYK” concept to mean, “If you know Jesus, you know how to pray.” The art of prayer is not secretive, it’s personal. Prayer is about an open and honest heart, seeking to know Jesus more deeply, and trusting that he will continue to reveal himself as you press in. Consider that when Jesus taught his first followers how to pray, he met them exactly where they already were. He took the daily prayers they had learned from childhood, and showed how those familiar words could be used to bring every part of their lives into God’s presence. In essence, Jesus was teaching them, and all his followers for all time, that “You know how to pray!” Prayer is not about a formula, it’s about friendship with Jesus. No matter if you’ve felt intimidated, exhausted, or condemned by the thought of prayer, you always have access to Jesus: just call on his name! Prayer is your opening to the gateway of heaven, where you can know and be fully known by the one who created you. Don’t back away from the awesome access you have through prayer. Simply open up your mouth and be honest with God.

If you know Jesus, you know how to pray.

1. Kingdom Access

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” —Matthew 6:9-10

When we approach God, we recognize the body of Christ as a family calling him our Father and submitting to his will. He has connected us all through adoption by the blood of Jesus. In prayer, we pause and recognize that he is holy and surrender to his will above our own. His will for us is to give thanks in every circumstance.

2. Daily Vulnerability

“Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.” —Matthew 6:11-13

Time and honesty are fundamental in all relationships. The same goes for our relationship with our Father. Being in God’s presence helps us clearly spot temptation. We also can’t forget that confession is just as important as our petitions and our praises.

Take heart, as a believer you have direct access to the throne room of God. There’s no secret code for you to learn or exclusive experience to have, simply enter in through prayer. Remember, prayer has never been about how eloquent you sound, but about a heart that is open and humble before God. So don’t remain silent. Talk to Jesus, the way the truth and the life. Join your prayers with those of the family of believers, God wants to hear your voice. Your prayer life protects you because it tethers your will to the Father’s will. In every communication with him, he helps you by removing the debris and renewing you. As you pursue him, know that you are being changed by his presence and filled up with every good thing you need to live this life.