Understanding Prayer

The sacrifice of Jesus made a true and meaningful connection with God possible for everyone. The Lord invites us to approach Him boldly with our praises, thoughts, needs, hurts, hopes, and requests. To understand prayer, we need to know a few basics about prayer.

Purpose of Prayer

(Eph. 1:5-6, 11-12, 3:12; Heb. 10:19-22)

• Worship God for who He is and thank Him for what he’s done

• Cultivate a personal relationship with God

• Reflect on daily actions

• Make requests and ask for guidance

• Express faith in God

• Repent and receive forgiveness

How to Pray

(Matt. 5:43-45; 6:9-13; James 5:16; 1 John 5:14)

• Follow Jesus’ example: honor and acknowledge God before making any requests

• Approach God with confidence

• Radiate an attitude of love and mercy toward others

Hindrances to Prayer

(Mark 11:24-25; James 1:6, 4:3, 5:16)

• Harbor hatred and anger toward others

• Neglect to confess any sin

• Doubt that prayers will be answered

• Ask with wrong motives

God’s Response to Prayer

(Gen. 25:21, 1 Pet. 3:12; 1 John 5:14)

• Listens to the prayers of His people

• Answers those who trust Him and ask according to His will