Published by Prayer is a form of serving God (Luke 2:36-38). We pray because God commands us to pray (Philippians 4:6-7).
Prayer is exemplified for us by Christ and the early church (Mark 1:35; Acts 1:14; 2:42; 3:1; 4:23-31; 6:4; 13:1-3). If Jesus thought it was worthwhile to pray, we should also.
God intends for prayer to be the means of obtaining His solutions in a number of situations:
- a) Preparation for major decisions (Luke 6:12-13)
- b) Overcoming demonic barriers in lives (Matthew 17:14-21)
- c) The gathering of workers for the spiritual harvest (Luke 10:2)
- d) The gaining of strength to overcome temptation (Matthew 26:41)
- e) The means of strengthening others spiritually (Ephesians 6:18-19)
We have God’s promise that our prayers are not in vain, even if we don’t receive specifically what we asked for (Matthew 6:6; Romans 8:26-27).
He has promised that when we ask for things that are in accordance with His will, He will give us what we ask for (1 John 5:14-15).
How do I pray?
Matt 6:5-13 Gives us these six steps;
- Praise Him
- Ask His Will
- Ask for the things you need
- Ask for forgiveness
- Ask for mercy, grace, and protection
- Acknowledge His power and Sovereignty
God is your friend, your father, your brother, and your King. He loves us so much, and my guess is He misses us those long hours He’s walking with His every where we go but we don’t acknowledge His presence. Don’t worry about FORM during times like those, just talk to God. Talk to Him like he’s your dad, your best pal, your brother, and your King.
Don’t…
- Worry about folding your hands, bowing your head, or closing your eyes! These are traditions of the church and not in scripture! We bow our heads as a sign of submission and reverence to God. The clasping of hands was an old church traditions set up while receiving communion from a priest. If you want to show your reverence by bowing your head or getting on your knees, so be it, but don’t think you have to!
- Assume everything you ask for you will get. This is only in accordance to HIS will, and if your will and His will are lined up-you will ask for what you want and always receive it.
- Neglect God. He deserves more attention than any human being, even your family or one day your children.
- Pray only out of obligation. Yes, we are obligated, but it should inspire you and ignite you and refresh you, as well as tighten up your relationship with God.
