Scripture Reading: Pray without ceasing. —1 Thessalonians 5:17
Definition: Prayer is communicating and interacting with God. It consists of
“adoration, or an expression of our sense of God’s glorious perfections, confession of
our sins, supplication for mercy and forgiveness, intercession for blessings on others,
and thanksgiving” [Webster’s Dictionary, 1828].
Summary: Prayer is the essential by which mankind can have personal acquaintance and communion with God. Prayer is a medium by which to worship and glorify God. It is the avenue by which one may access salvation and the graces of the Spirit. It is the cord that reaches between Heaven and earth and enables man to know and understand the will of God. Prayer changes the heart and by faith, it can change circumstances though the power of God. It is one of the most vital ingredients to living a successful Christian life.
I. Prayer Commanded
A. “Men ought always to pray.” Luke 18:1
B. “Continue in prayer.” Colossians 4:2
C. Ask, seek, knock. Luke 11:9-10
II. Purpose/Value/Power of Prayer
A. Relationship/Communion. Genesis 5:24, Jeremiah 29:11-13, John 15:5.
B. Worship. Psalm 103:1.
C. Salvation. Acts 2:21.
D. Healing. James 5:13-16.
E. Grace/Strength. Hebrews 4:16.
F. Wisdom. James 1:5.
G. Release of care. 1 Peter 5:6-7,
Psalm 107:28-30.
H. Power to overcome. Matthew 26:41.
III. How to Pray
A. In the name of Jesus. John 16:23.
B. In faith. Hebrews 11:6.
C. In humility. James 4:6.
D. In the Spirit. Jude 1:20.
E. With thanksgiving. Philippians 4:6.
F. Without vain repetition. Matthew 6:7-8.
IV. Those for Whom God Hears and Answers Prayer
A. The humble/repentant. 2 Chronicles 7:14.
B. Those who need deliverance. Joel 2:32, Psalm 86:7.
C. The righteous and obedient. James 5:16,
1 Peter 3:12, 1 John 3:22.
D. Those who believe. Hebrews 11:6.
Mark 11:24.
E. In accordance to His will. 1 John 5:14-15.
F. Intercession by the Spirit. Romans 8:26-27.
V. For Whom to Pray
A. Ourselves. Psalms 55:16,
2 Corinthians 12:8-10.
B. Saints/Ministers. 1 Thessalonians 1:2,
Ephesians 6:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:1.
C. Harvest laborers. Luke 10:2.
D. Unsaved. Romans 10:1.
E. Enemies. Matthew 5:44.
F. Nations/Rulers. 1 Timothy 2:1-3.
VI. Hindrances to Prayer
A. Sin. Proverbs 15:29, John 9:31.
B. Wrong motives. James 4:3.
C. Unforgiveness. Mark 11:25-26.
D. Self-righteousness. Luke 18:9-14.
E. Marriage problems. 1 Peter 3:7.
VII. Where to Pray
A. Private. Matthew 6:5-6, Mat 14:23.
B. Public. Acts 4:31, Acts 12:5,12.
VIII. Promises to Those who Pray
A. “It shall be given you.” Matthew 7:7-8
B. “If two of you shall agree.” Matthew 18:19
C. “Ask what ye will.” John 15:7
Conclusion
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. —1 Peter 4:7
