UNDERSTANDING PRAYER
First and foremost, it is important to understand that prayer is a spiritual activity backed by an act of faith.
As Christians, it is important to communicate with God daily and there’s no better way to do so than through prayer — it is our direct line to God (Jeremiah 29:12).
A consistent prayer life strengthens our relationship with God and produces the desired outcome when we pray “in the right manner”.
Having said that, it’s also important not to discount a lifestyle of holiness. As such, maintaining the right standing with God helps to guarantee answers to our prayers simply because God honours the requests of a righteous person (James 5:16).
HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?
The blueprint for effective prayers can be found in Jesus’ teachings (Matthew 6: 9-13). Therein He teaches us how to pray thus:
- Hallow (or exalt) the name of the Lord. It’s important never to barge into God’s presence (Psalms 100:4).
- Even though we seek answers to our prayers, we must ask that God’s will be done nonetheless (Luke 22:42b).
- We must not be greedy with our request(s). We should ask for today’s supplies and let God take care of our tomorrow (Matthew 6:34).
- We should seize the opportunity to ask for forgiveness of our sins (Proverbs 15:8, 1 Peter 3:12).
- We should pray against the treacheries of the wicked (Psalm 25:3, Proverbs 22:12).
SOME EFFECTS OF PRAYER
The following effects are possible when we pray in the right manner:
- God can forgive our sins (2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalms 51:1-7).
- God can fight battles on our behalf (Psalms 35, Jeremiah 1:19).
- God can stir up revival in our lives and nations (Acts 2:1-47, Isaiah 38:1-5).
So, as the year comes to an end, please be encouraged to spend time praying to God about yourself, friends, family, nation etc while also committing the new year ahead into His hands.
You’re also welcome to join our Sunday services this month as we explore more teachings on THE POWER OF PRAYER.
HAPPY NEW MONTH!
