UNDERSTANDING PRAYER
First and foremost, it is important to understand that prayer is a spiritual activity backed by an act of faith. That is, we must always exercise unwavering belief that God is able to hear and answer our prayers according to His will concerning us (Matthew 21:22)
God desires constant fellowship with man. As Christians, it is important to establish and sustain our relationship with God through daily acts of prayer — it is our direct line to God (Jeremiah 29:12).
Additionally, prayer is a veritable weapon in the hand of every Christian to help us exercise dominion on the earth (Job 22:28). It is also important to emphasize that for our prayers to become effective, a lifestyle of holiness is non-negotiable because the prayer of the wicked is abomination unto God (James 5:16, Proverbs 15:8).
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 with our demands (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 RESULTS OF PRAYER
The following results 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) etc.
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!
