Just a few weeks ago, on New Years Eve morning, we began a series on prayer. The first week we focused on what The Lord’s Prayer teaches us so that we learn to pray like Jesus.
Since it was some time ago and because Luke 11 is part of our weekly reading this week, this is a good opportunity to refresh our hearts and minds about the privilege of prayer. Remember our community definition: Prayer is a conversation, involving both talking and listening, that helps develop a closer – more intimate – relationship with God.
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
Luke 11:2-4 NKJV
We pray because Jesus did and we are to be like Him. In The Lord’s Prayer He shared His how and why of prayer:
Prayer is about relationship. It is our communication with the Father who loves us.
We respect and honor the Name of God because all our needs are met in His name.
God won’t force His kingdom and will upon humanity, we are to ask for both to come to earth. Be prepared to have an active role when they come.
He cares about our daily needs, so ask Him to provide.
Keep short accounts with God and with others. FORGIVE.
God knows the challenge of living as kingdom people. He wants us to ask for His help to 1) stay away from temptation; and 2) find deliverance from the evil one.
Everything comes from Him and belongs to Him…He is worthy of our all…our prayers, our worship, our lives.
How are we doing?
Are we praying more than time spent on social media scrolling/posting and other screen viewing?
Are we praying more than time spent complaining and sharing our opinion?
Are we praying more behind others’ backs than we are talking behind their backs?
Are we praying more today than we did yesterday?
Are we praying?
We are a community that prays consistently, persistently and effectively. Let’s not grow weary in well-doing. Stay in the fight through prayer.
Father, help us to not be anxious about anything but instead always come to You in prayer. May we come with an attitude of thanksgiving as we share our hearts and then listen to what You say. We boldly ask You to do what You do best…the impossible. May Your peace, Your shalom, protect our hearts and minds. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,7