As Bible reading is the Christian’s spiritual food, prayer is the Christian’s life-giving breath. While it is true that every believer will pray naturally, still the understanding of the principles of prayer and the practice of prayer should become a high priority and focus for every Christian.1
Prayer has no limits. No mountain is too high, and no desert is too broad. Time and distance are as nothing. From the view of the "prayer closet", a work for God may be carried on that absolutely defies possibility and difficulties.2.
Nothing is too hard for God to answer. The believer is urged to ask what ever he desires according to the will of God. Many answers that would be impossible by human standards are the normal thing for the believing petitioner.3
God has added two great encouragement in the asking and answering of prayer. First, there is the ministry of our Lord Jesus as He sits at the right hand of the Father, there to present our petitions before the throne of God. In addition, the ministry of the indwelling Holy Spirit includes the intercession that He alone can make on our behalf 4
The so-called "Lord’s Prayer", which is really the "Disciples Prayer", adds great wisdom to wording an acceptable prayer. There, Jesus included all the elements that should be included in prayer. While not intended as rote prayer, it is nevertheless a model of great value.5
Since the death of our Lord all prayer is to be made on a new basis. Everything that is asked should be in His name. This does mean merely attaching the name of Christ to any prayer. Rather, the believer as he prays, is asking as Christ Himself would ask. The will of the believer is wholly submerged in the will of Christ.6
The order of Prayer is to address the Father, on the basis of the sacrifice of the Son, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. This is acceptable and pleasing to God.7
Prayer is communication. The best way of communicating with God is simply to talk with Him. Although there are guidelines and examples in the Bible, the believer learns to pray by praying. Prayer becomes an attitude and a way of life.
1. Matthew 6:5-15, Philippians 4:6-7
2. Acts 12:1-17
3. John 15:7,16
4. Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:26
5. Matthew 6:8-15
6. John 15:16, John 16:23-24
7. John 16:23, Jude 20
