The Basis of Prayer
The Basis
Why do we Pray? Effective prayer ministry is a lifestyle of connecting with and communing with God; it is your loving relationship with God. Although it is said that it is a command to pray, I would like to think that we communicate with God because we WANT to; we love him so much that we anticipate His interaction in our lives.
What do we Pray For? Everything! Life’s concerns and blessings for us, for those we love, and to invite others to know God.
Does God listen? Yes, when we come with a sincere heart; He wants to hear from us; he wants us to communicate, God loves us…That’s all the reason we need. Be still and allow the Lord to come into your heart.
Are prayers answered? Yes, all sincere prayers are answered; but consider the following: What we’re praying for? Are we selfish in our request? Are the prayers focused on us at the expense of others? Are we willing to sacrifice for the sake of others? Do we pray for others with the same sincerity and urgency? Do we ask…Is this right with God? What is God’s will?
Are we satisfied with God’s decision/action? We want to be true to God and have faith in Him with all of our hearts, minds and soul. He has an unrelenting love for us and his decision and action may be far beyond our understanding. Remember, all prayers are answered at God’s will and time; the outcome may not be what we expect, but they are for our good.
What Does God Expects from us?
How is our presence before God in prayer? We must always give glory and praise to our Lord no matter what the circumstance. Humble ourselves before his presence and place our focus on Him; leave all the worldly distraction at the door. Confess; ask for forgiveness and ask the Lord to give us a clean heart
Intent, Goals and Expectations:
With our relationship in God, the intent, goals and expectations comes for some naturally. As we continually grow in our faith, all who truly walk in the light of God will ultimately experience His love; to think and communicate with Him at all times. It will become a way of life - we will no longer see the world as others do. We become more conscience of our morality; our interest will change; our priorities will change. We will feel more compassion for others; we will be more than willing to serve giving God glory.
"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe" —Ephesians 1:16-19