Lesson Theme:  This class will cover the scriptural basis for prayer both public prayer in the worship service and personal prayer.  We will seek to understand many aspects of prayer, including:  how to pray, what to pray for, when to pray, who to pray to and why to pray.

References:

Worship:  Bowing at the Feet of God, Waller, Ted H., 21 Century Christian

More Than a Feeling:  Worship That Pleases God, Jividen, Jimmy, Gospel Advocate Company

Introduction:

·        Prayer, like singing, should permeate our life – public worship, private meditation, family devotion, and momentary requests for strength and guidance or thanksgiving.  It is part of our culture – prayer before meals, invocations

·        It is also one of the most under utilized gifts God has given us

How Should we Pray:

·        Pray for things we care deeply about

o       Wrestle in prayer – Col 4:12

o       Jesus prayed earnestly – Luke 22:39-44

o       The church prayed earnestly for Peter’s release – Acts 12:5

·        Continuously

o       Pray without ceasing – Thes 5:17

o       Persistent widow – Luke 18:1-6

·        Humbly - Luke 18:9-14

·        In the Spirit; for things the Spirit desires - Eph 6:18-20

·        In the Name of Jesus – Heb 4:15-16

·        With Holy Spirit Interceding – Rom 8:26-27
 

How Should we not Pray:

·        For our Glory – Matt 6:5-6

·        Without Faith – James 1:5-6

·        Selfishly – we should be praying for things meaningful to God
 

Conclusion:

·        Prayer must be more than superstitious phrases, proud words and selfish pleadings.