What Is Prayer?
Prayer is communicating with God.
It involves:
- Speaking to God
- Listening through His Word
- Expressing worship and gratitude
- Seeking His guidance
- Depending upon Him
Prayer reminds believers that God is present, powerful, loving, and faithful.
Word Study
Prayer
The Greek word often used for prayer is proseuchē (προσευχή).
Meaning:
- Prayer
- Petition
- Devotion directed toward God
Prayer is an act of worship and dependence upon God.
Why Do We Pray?
Prayer is not about informing God of something He does not know.
God already knows our needs.
Matthew 6:8
“For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”
We pray because:
- God commands us to pray.
- Prayer strengthens our relationship with Him.
- Prayer expresses dependence upon Him.
- Prayer aligns our hearts with His will.
- Prayer is one of the ways God accomplishes His purposes.
Prayer changes us as we seek God.
Jesus Taught His Disciples to Pray
When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, He gave them a model prayer.
Matthew 6:9-13
This prayer teaches several important principles.
Worship Comes First
“Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.”
Prayer begins with worship.
Before focusing on our needs, we focus on God.