Let’s look at some ways the Bible teaches us to pray. I will share some more ideas tomorrow. Try these out and let me know how they work out for you.
1. Pray in Jesus’ Name
Real prayer is focused on Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you” (John 16:23). When we pray in the name of Jesus, God the Father hears us. He responds to the prayer offered in the name of his Son Jesus, because our relationship with God is through the Son. Thank Him, acknowledge Him, and petition Him, remembering that He loves you and died for you.
2. Pray According to God’s Will
Many people pray as if it is a transaction. By that I mean that we pray about what we need or want. God is not a Santa Clause in the sky; he does not give us everything we ask for. But in 1 John 5:14 it says, “If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” This means that when we pray in accordance with his will we can expect an answer.
3. Pray with Your Bible Open
One of the best ways to pray is according to the Scriptures. The Psalms offer prayers of thanksgiving, grief, desperation, and just about any emotion or situation you can imagine. All throughout the scriptures, we see God’s people offering prayers to God. Also, when reading through difficult passages, praying about the text allows God to speak to us.
Spend some time in prayer this week. Let me know how God is working in your life.
Paul