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Prayer — A Great Blessing From God

Prayer is certainly a great blessing from God and should be a powerful part of the Christian’s life. We know prayer is important to God, because the words pray, prayer, prayers and praying are mentioned over 450 times in the Bible. With these thoughts in mind, let us ask and biblically answer the following questions regarding prayer:

• What is Prayer? — The word pray means “to petition, request or entreat.” It is the avenue by which we communicate with God (cf. Romans 10:1). Prayer necessarily involves praise (Matthew 6:9), thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6), confession (1 John 1:9) and petitions (Philippians 4:6).
• Why should we Pray? — Because prayer is a direct command (1 Thessalonians 5:17; cf. Ephesians 6:18). It is the medium through which we obtain God’s wisdom and blessings (James 1:5; James 5:18; cf. 1 Kings 18:42; 1 Kings 18:45). Prayer is indeed a powerful tool for God’s faithful (Acts 12:5-17).
• How often should we Pray? — Petitions before God should be offered as often as we have a need, and prayers of thanksgiving should be offered as often as God blesses us (Ephesians 1:3; cf. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4; 1 Peter 1:3). Note that the “how often” should be closely associated with the “without ceasing” attitude (1 Thessalonians 5:17; cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 2:12-13; Ephesians 6:18).
• What should we Pray for? — Just to name a few; for strength to overcome our temptations (Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38; Luke 22:40; Luke 22:46); for God’s wisdom (James 1:5-7); for unity (John 17:20-21); for forgiveness (Matthew 6:12); for the sick (James 5:14); for all people and those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-3; cf. Romans 10:1); for the saints (Ephesians 6:18).
• What hinders our Prayers? — When we allow sin to remain in our lives (Isaiah 59:1-2; when we pray with selfish motives (James 4:3); when we pray doubting the outcome (James 1:5-8; cf. 1 Timothy 2:8 – KJV).
• Who can Pray? — Prayer is the privilege of the obedient (1 John 3:22); those who are submissive to God’s will (1 John 5:14; cf. 1 John 3:22); and those who are faithful (John 9:31; John 15:7; cf. James 5:16; 1 Peter 3:12).

Brethren, let us never take the avenue of prayer for granted, but let us humbly thank God for this blessed means of communication with Him — the One who richly provides all good and perfect gifts (James 1:17; cf. John 3:27), including life itself (Acts 17:25; Acts 17:28).