Let’s jump right into this week’s Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting with a look at one of the reasons why we pray.
We see in scripture God’s word calls us to pray. The first time prayer is mentioned is in Genesis 4:26
“After many years passed, Seth became the father of a son and named him Enosh. This was about the time when people began to worship and call on the name of the Eternal One.”
It is a recurring theme throughout scripture. Specifically, there are 650 prayers in the Bible. Romans 12:12 tells us to not forget to rejoice and devote ourselves to prayer. While in Ephesians 6:18 we are challenged to always be in prayer.
Use the attached image to write down the full text of the verses on prayer. Highlight what stands out to you about these verses.
I am in a season where I am anxious about the future. Scripture has something to say about being anxious and so for the last few months I have been praying Philippians 4:6. “Don’t be anxious about things; instead, pray. Pray about everything. He longs to hear your requests, so talk to God about your needs and be thankful for what has come.”
The takeaway here is that we are to be faithful and thankful in our continual prayer, regardless of the situation. This all should be done in an attitude of Joy.
Jesus is a great model of someone who made communion with God his first priority. Let’s look at Jesus’ example. Use the image to write the scripture that speaks to Jesus praying.
Jesus’ approach to prayer was intentional and disciplined. He often rose early and went to a quiet place where He could focus on His Father (Mark 1:35-38).
This reminds me of my mother. She was not a morning person but she committed to getting up at 5 AM. This was before anyone else in the house was awake. She would spend her first hour awake every day in prayer. Looking back on her commitment to prayer has me challenged to structure my day in a way that I am able to spend my first moments awake in prayer with Him.
In conclusion, if we are commanded to pray, then our prayers are our act of obedience. God calls us to pray and we must respond. He calls us in every situation (Phil 4:6), ‘without ceasing’ (1 Thess 5:17) and without giving up (Luke 18:1). Our Father wants you to talk to Him – regularly, continually, and persistently.
Here is a sample prayer that you could start your day off with.
“Good morning, Lord! Today’s a new day, a chance for a new start. Yesterday is gone and with it any regrets, mistakes, or failures I may have experienced. It’s a good day to be glad and give thanks, and I do, Lord. Thank You for today, a new opportunity to love, give, and be all that You want me to be.