The Principle of Prayer

“You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14–16.

Prayer is the practice of working together with God according to His will. 
Question: Do you think prayer matters? Why or why not?

What is prayer?
Prayer is not about getting what we want.
Prayer is not passive. 
Prayer is relational.
Prayer is about seeking then doing God’s will.
Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are his. Whatever he tears down cannot be rebuilt; whoever he imprisons cannot be released Job 12:13–14

Principle of Prayer: Prayer is the practice of working together with God according to His will.

Question: Why would someone think that prayer is passive? What do you think about prayer as being active? 

Together with God
Prayer is our will is standing on God’s side. Anything else is not truly prayer – and is powerless. 

Seek God’s will say it, in your time alone with God.
They were seized with craving in the wilderness and tested God in the desert. He gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease among them. Psalm 106:14–15.
God knows what we want, and what we actually need. 

Seek God’s will and say it as you gather in His name
Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. Matthew 18:19.

Pray specific prayers as well as general ones.

Pray using scripture.
 I have treasured your word in my heart so that I may not sin against you. Lord, may you be blessed; teach me your statutes. With my lips I proclaim all the judgments from your mouth. Psalms 119:11–13

For Parents:
Start a youth out on his way; even when he grows old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6.

For Spouses and marriage 
Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy, is not boastful, is not arrogant, is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not irritable, and does not keep a record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4–5

For difficult relationships
 “For if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. But if you don’t forgive others, your Father will not forgive your offenses. Matthew 6:14–15.

For Salvation of loved ones
… God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3–4.

Prayer is the practice of working together with God according to His will. 

Reflection/Prayer
Who is the one person you need to pray for?
What does God want you to pray for?