Jesus Prayed
For strength in the midst of the pressures of His ministry (Mark 1:32-35; Luke 5:15-16).
In times of decision (Luke 6:12-13).
With thankfulness (Mark 6:41).
In times of deep joy (Luke 10:21-22).
With faith (John 11:41-42).
In times of deep anguish (Mark 11:33-42).
For others (Luke 22:31-32; John 17:1-26).
The Early Christians Prayed
To strengthen and support one another in their confusion and uncertainty as to what lay ahead (Acts 1:12-15).
As part of the fellowship they shared with one another – their growth as Christians (Acts 2:42-47).
In the face of danger, praying with faith and expectation (Acts 4:23-31).
In times of decision (Acts 13:1-3).
In the face of persecution choosing to pray rather than worry (Acts 16:22-25).
For one another (Ephesians 3:13-21; Philippians 1:4).
Prayer in Our Lives Today
When
Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Why and for what
To praise God (Psalm 63:3).
For our needs (Ephesians 6:18).
For help in overcoming worries, for peace (Psalm 55:22; Philippians 4:6; 1 Peter 5:7).
For guidance and direction (James 1:5-8).
For help in daily tasks (Colossians 2:6; Psalm 37:5).
For freedom from guilt, forgiveness (1 John 1:9).
For others (Ephesians 6:18; James 5:16; 1 Timothy 2:1).
For those in government (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
For our nation (2 Chronicles 7:14).
How
In assurance (1 John 5:14-15).
Expectantly (Matthew 7:7-8; James 1:5-8).
In faith (John 14:13-14; 15:7, 16).
Free from anger and resentment (1 Timothy 2:8).
Together (Matthew 18:20; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 34:3).
Persistently (Colossians 4:2; Luke 11:5-10).
In line with God’s will (Ephesians 6:18; 1 John 5:14-15).
With thankfulness (Philippians 4:6; Colossians 2:7 4:2).
Promises
And when you draw close to God,
God will draw close to you.
James 4:8 TLB
He is close to all who call on him sincerely.
Psalm 145:18 TLB
Compiled by Marlene Bagnull
First published in Pulpit Helps, August 1980
Reprinted in Advance, January 1981
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