Communication
PRAYER…is our primary means of communicating with the Lord. It involves giving and receiving, speaking and listening, many times waiting. It encompasses various types for specific purposes, and many overlap.
God wants us to have incredible joy while he is being glorified. Since a believer has been raised in Christ into the throne room of heaven, where the kingdom decisions are being made, our prayers are significant and well received. God wants our input. Because, as a pastor in D.C. reminded me; ‘Bill, you do know that God runs his universe through the prayers of his people’. That’ll change your view of your prayers. Did mine!
A tool of power, presence, and wisdom
Dads, the most valuable tool in your discipleship toolbox is prayer. Your children will learn its value as you and your wife pray for and with them. A father is no taller than when he is on his knees praying. You invoke the power and presence of the triune God who is omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent; none of which you are. So, let’s look at this ‘tool of power, presence and wisdom’.
What is the methodology of prayer? You, speaking to the Father, inspired and enabled by the power and person of the Holy Spirit, through and in the name of Jesus Christ the Son. The Trinity is always involved. And you receive the answers through the same channel.
Who should pray? The righteous in Christ. Those set apart, made holy by the grace of God. (Jas. 5:16) All the faithful in Christ. (Psa. 32:6) Or unsaved sinner. (Acts 2:38)
Why is prayer necessary if God is Sovereign? Because He runs His universe through the prayers of His people. Our prayers matter and are vital! Jesus commanded us to pray as did He. (Heb. 5:7) Due to sin, we live in a dark world; prayers bring the light of Jesus to every corner of the darkness.
Is the Lord’s Prayer a good model for anyone to frame his/her prayers? (Mt. 6:9-14) Yes, but not necessarily mandatory in all instances. Help! is a good example!
Where should I pray? Anywhere! But not for recognition. (Mt. 6:5,6)
When should I pray? Unceasingly! Habitually, unconsciously, consciously, as you go, on your bed, like inhaling and exhaling. (I Thess. 5:17)
How should I pray? Persistently! Ask, seek, knock! (Lk. 11:8,9) (Lk. 18:1-5)
When does faith enter in? Always! (Heb. 11:6) (Mt. 22:21,22) (Mk. 11:24)
Who should we pray for? All people! (I Tim 2:1)
How may I know God hears my prayers? By maintaining an abiding relationship with Him. (Jn. 15:7) (II Chron. 7.14)
What causes you and me to pray? Crisis and vision!
What are some of the different types of prayer revealed in scripture?
Be still
Many like me spend a lot of time talking, even in our prayer time. He has challenged us to “be still, and know that I am God”. Listening is such a key to praying effectively. Try to remember; God has a whole lot of awesome things to say.
And if you are searching for kingdom things about which to pray, search all the Psalms, the prophets, John 14-17, Ephesians 1 and 3, Philippians 4, Colossians 1. Read and meditate on his word and when the Spirit directs, pray his word back to him.
Why do we many times not experience answered prayer in our lives? James 4:2,3 tells us that; “we have not because we ask not; and we don’t receive because we ask amiss” (wrongly). Guys, let’s us get it right! Our family’s health and welfare are riding on it. And experience unequaled joy by having God answer our prayers.
