Why Do You Pray..?

"The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer."  - F.B. Meyer

As true and sincere Christians, we are to love our neighbor and have their best interest and needs at heart, as well and our own. Sounds simple enough, right?  (Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; John 13:34; 15:12)

To carry this directive a little further, we are also commanded to pray for our enemies, as reflected in Jesus' own words (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28). He, or she (the Christian) especially prays for the Church at large and his own congregation.

However, as much as he does pray for everything mentioned, it would be irresponsible to leave out one more important piece of the Christian's prayer. And that is to pray for himself, particularly in matters regarding the welfare of the soul (Psalm 20:4-5).

Naturally, the question arises: "What should a Christian pray for?" The Lord tell us, "...whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you" (John 15:16). Christ speaks to His believers, those that possess His Spirit (Romans 8:9).

Therefore, it would be foolishness to ask for anything and everything whenever the inclination moves us. True faith cannot expect anything except but what God has promised us. Foolish, or ill-considered prayers are not heard (James 4:3).

The Lord speaks to believers, who pray according to His will, offering their will to God's. A Christian praying in Jesus' name will do as He did (Mark 14:36; Matthew 26:29; Matthew 26:42; Luke 22:42; John 18:11), and the leper (Matthew 8:2; Luke 5:12).

So, then, when we ask God for temporal gifts, such as health, wealth, skill, wisdom, etc., we should ask with the stipulation that He would grant them to us if they contribute to His glory and our welfare (John 15:7)

However, spiritual gifts, which are absolutely necessary for the salvation of our soul, should be asked for without any conditions, because we know the will of our Father. He wills our salvation (Philippians 4:6).

For that reason we pray for spiritual blessings, such as forgiveness, the grace of God, faith, guidance by the Holy Spirit, perseverance in faith and in adversity, without restriction; confident He will hear us because we have His promise to provide all of this, if we only ask.

Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; Matthew 6:6; Colossians 4:2; Jeremiah 33:3; Proverbs 15:29 

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray to You, provide me with wisdom and strength, along with a fearless spirit, to face whatever obstacles or problems may arise in my life. Amen.

May God bless you,

Lainey