What is Prayer?

Introduction:

Faithful Christians are to be distinguished in their fervent petitions to heavens throne of grace/mercy. See 1 Thess. 5:17-18 and Phil. 4:6. It has been said: “prayer is the most abused right & neglected privilege that children of God have.” Does our prayer life reflect real faith in the power & privilege of taking everything to God in prayer? Prayer has been compared to a “golden key which, when kept bright by use, will unlock unto us the treasures of heaven.”   

I.  Facts About Prayer in the Bible:

A.    Our attempt today will focus on need to define prayer.

1.     some 85 prayers recorded in Old Testament.

B.    In New Testament – Christians are not only told to confess – but they to pray for:

1.     enemies – Mt. 5:44

2.     to be heard/seen of God not men;

3.     for daily bread; not to be led into temptation

4.     that sins might be forgiven – Mt. 6:5-15

II.  What is Prayer?

A.    Prayer is sharing & Fellowship With God.

1.     Psa. 55:22-23

2.     We need times when we can get close w/God and concentrate our thoughts/attentions on Him.

B.    Prayer is a surrendering to God.

1.     Must surrender ourselves and our time to God.

2.     It is an acknowledgement that God is in control & that He can come to our aid when necessary! See Psa. 56:10-11; Heb. 2:13

C.   Prayer is desire expressed to God.

1.     Phillips Brooks: a wish turned heavenward.

2.     Prayer is the desires of the heart expressed unto God.

3.     Prayer involves desire: Rom. 10:1

4.     It is a desire expressed/addressed to God!

a)       God must be addressed for our desires to be considered a prayer.

b)       prayer distinguished from other speech b/c it addressed to God.

D.   Prayer is acknowledging and praising God. Mt. 6:9-10; 13

III.  Types of Prayer:

A.     “Prayer” can be used in broad sense to include all various forms of prayer.

1.     See 1 Tim. 2:1; Phil. 4:6

B.     What is the difference between prayers & supplications?

1.     Weaver: “prayer” would include requests for fulfillment of needs that are always present. (wisdom; understanding; greater faith; etc.)

2.     “Supplication” could refer to requests made in specific situations.

a)     cure for illness; removal of persecution; salvation of someone, etc.

b)    the wording takes on the meaning of a very strong request – much like our word beg.

C.     Intercession – 1 Tim. 2 - prayer to God on behalf of another.

D.    Thanksgiving - involves a prayer of gratitude to God. (Psa. 75:1; 1 Tim. 4:4)

Conclusion:

A.    Let us endeavor to improve our prayer life.