“For the LORD builds up Zion; he appears in his glory; he regards the prayer of the destitute and does not despise their prayer” (Psalm 102:16-17).
God’s people find blessings in the Lord God. One of the greatest being a God who listens to our prayers (James 1:5; 1 John 5:14; John 9:31; 1 Peter 3:12; 1 John 5:15; Jeremiah 29:12-13; Psalm 66:17-20). Not only does He listen, but He acts in our favor. Isn’t it odd that with such a privilege that men don’t pray more? Many only pray as a last resort or pray without trust that God will hear and answer.
Jesus was clear that what we ask in His name we shall receive (John 16:24). Let us be careful to pray within the guidelines for proper prayer.
Prayer should always rehearse the awesome God with His great qualities lauded and extolled. We are approaching deity, and we are after all less than He in all ways.
Prayers should be ardently filled with supplication and humility. I’m reminded of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8), she made her requests with fervor and tenacity and determination, knowing that her many pleadings would be heard. Jesus demonstrated this persistence in the Garden (Matthew 26:39-45) and in His prayers for the unity of His disciples (John 17).
Prayers should not be selfish. In Jesus example prayer He asked for the blessings of food for the day not only for Himself but for others as well (Matthew 6:11). We are to pray for all people (1 Timothy 2:1-4). We should pray for those in need both physically and spiritually (Galatians 6:1ff; 10).
Prayers should include what God desires. Let us pray for the works of the church. Remember to include those who are lost and we need to evangelize them. We should pray for the widow and orphan knowing that it is God’s will that we tend to their needs (James 1:27).
Prayers should include a call for help to become more like God (Psalm 51:10; Ezekiel 36:25-27). After all, we are praying to the one who can strengthen us and make us new (Matthew 5:8; 1 Peter 1:22).
God wants to bless us. He longs to hear our prayers. We ought to hone our prayer skills to become real prayer masters.
Worship Thoughts 