Pharisees, I think we realize that our own traditions and bad theology can also land us in a rut of prayer that just does not work. Many Christians are as frustrated as the “heathen on the hill,” struggling to find an approach that makes their walk with God real, natural, and sustainable for a lifetime. So as we prepare to clearly understand and apply a pattern that can enliven our prayer life and give us a biblical, balanced approach to prayer, let’s review a quick list of “pray this, not that” principles: