Prayer is a key component of an active life of faith. It is extremely important in growing closer to God. Unfortunately not many people feel like they know how to pray. In this article we will talk about prayer, its role in the life of Jesus, its role in the life of His followers, and how to pray as believers.
Prayer in the Old Testament
Prayer in the Life of Jesus
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Prayer in the Life of His Followers
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How to Pray
When looking at how to pray it is important to be reminded that this is something that is intensely personal between the believer and God. Prayer provides us an opportunity to place our needs before the Father, listen to Him through His word, and confess our sins to Him. In Matthew 6:5-6 we are given a key difference between true prayer that God will hear, and prayer that is offered to draw attention. In these verses we are given a glimpse inside the prayer life of the hypocrite. These people love to pray for the sake of the attention that they get from those around them. They love to be seen by others and draw attention to themselves. The attention they get for praying like this is their full reward.
Prayer of the True Believer
Contrast that with the way true believers are instructed to pray. We are instructed to go into our room, or a quiet place, close the door and pray. We are to pray to the Father in secret. There are times that public prayer is absolutely justified and right but God looks to the intention behind the act of prayer. Those who pray publicly for the sake of the attention they get will have already received all the reward they will receive.
Public Versus Private Prayer
There are times, however, when private prayer is the order of the day. When we are struggling with intensely personal challenges or life situations being faced by others is a perfect time to pray secretly between the believer and the Father. Also, these private times of prayer are opportunities to listen to the Father. How does He speak to us? Through His word. Spend time reading and reflecting and the Father will take that opportunity to speak to your heart.
