Is It Really Necessary?

Is It Really Necessary?

Matthew 6:6(KJV)

“…when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret…” – Matthew 6:6(KJV)

Why should I pray? When should I pray? Is it really necessary? These are some questions a believer can be challenged with as they seek to encourage others to sustain a healthy prayer life.

What is Prayer? Dictionary.com describes it as “a spiritual communication between God…in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration or confession.” And in the Holy Bible, it is how those who believe in God talk to Him. It is how we make our praise and requests known. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:16-20, it is continually conversing with God. Naturally, as your faith grows stronger in Christ, it is expected that you will be in constant communication with him. 

Why should I pray? As a believer, your faith and growth in the things of God are heavily dependent on your reliance on the Lord Jesus Christ by means of the Holy Spirit. He advises in times of uncertainty, in times of trouble, affliction, or distress, before you make an important decision, and in times of blessings and prosperity. Clearly, we need to pray at all times as the Word of God instructs – without ceasing and like Daniel, morning, noon, and night – Daniel 6:10-12.

Consistent prayer releases the power of God’s blessings in one’s life and circumstances. As James 5:16 (KJV) says, “…The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” It basically energises the heart/ soul of a believer through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Different types of prayer include:

• Prayer of faith – James 5:15
• Prayer of agreement / corporate prayer – Acts 1:14, Acts 2:42
• Prayer of request/supplication – Philippians 4:6
• Prayer of Thanksgiving – Philippians 4:6 (focuses on what God has done)
• Prayer of worship – Acts 13:2-3 (focuses on God and who He is)
• Prayer of Consecration – Matthew 26:39 
• The Lord’s Prayer – Matthew 6:9-13. Jesus taught His disciples this prayer. It involves worship (verse 9), God’s Will (verse 10), supplication for ourselves and others (verses 11-12), and strength to deal with temptation (verse 13).

Therefore, prayer is necessary as it enables us to communicate with the very Source and purpose of our existence. It is the act of glorifying God and reinforcing our need for Him in all aspects of our life. According to the author Priscilla Shirer, “Prayer is the portal that brings the power of heaven down to earth.” 

Read: Nehemiah 4:9; Ephesians 6:8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 16; Matthew 18:10-35; Job 1; Job 2; Job 3