Weekly Devotion - #14

Read: Luke 11:1 - 13

Prayer

"...Lord, teach us to pray..."--Luke 11:1.

Prayer is asking, talking, and communicating with God. Prayer is praising and worshipping God. The only way to learn to pray is to do it--pray.

Where should we pray? The Bible states, everywhere (I Tim. 2:8). We should pray in secret (Matthew 6:6). We should pray in church (Luke l8:10). The Christian should have a certain place, but any place is better than no place. It is not the place that is important but the prayer.

When should a person pray? The Bible says always (Luke l8:1). In the morning we should pray (Psalm 5:3). We should pray at noon and evening (Psalm 55:17). We should pray day and night (Psalm 88:1). We should pray daily (Psalm 86:3). Any time is the right time to pray.

For what should we pray? Pray for the sick (James 5:13). Pray for sinners, all men, people in authority (I Tim. 2:1-4). Pray for wisdom and understanding (I Kings 3:5-9). Pray for long life (Isaiah 38:1-5). Pray for others (Colossians 1:2-9). Pray for clothing, food, and shelter (Matthew 6:25-34). Pray for your enemies (Matthew 5:38-48). Pray for your church (I Timothy 5:17). There is no request too large or too small. God wants us to pray for everything.

How should a person pray? It is not important to kneel or stand, to pray with eyes open or closed. It is not the position of our body that is important, but the condition of our heart. We should be guided by the Spirit (Romans 8:26). We should pray in faith, in humility, and keep on praying (Hebrews 11:6; II Chronicles 7:14; Luke l8:1-8). Remember we are praying to God. Remember who you are--His creation. [TGC]

Thot: No person prays too much.

Today: Discuss the need of prayer.

This lesson is from  30 Heart Touching Devotions available from SWM.

You have permission to copy for personal and church use.