“Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” – Luke 18:1 (NIV)
As we step into the year 2024, a new season awaits us. One filled with possibilities, blessings, and challenges. Therefore, for us to navigate successfully along this journey, we must understand that we can only achieve this accomplishment through prayers.
Yes, prayer, because it is the most powerful weapon (key) that Almighty God has given to us so that we can effectively unlock doors to our victory and blessings. Let’s examine these three important questions:
- What is prayer?
- When should we pray?
- Why is prayer important to the believer?
What is prayer?
Prayer is giving our attention to God in a two-way spiritual communication. That is when we talk to God and also listen to Him. It develops from a personal relationship between God the Father and us, through our Lord Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit. Because of this personal relationship, Jesus said, “…whatever you ask the Father in My name the Father will give you” (John 15:16 – NIV).
When should we pray?
Should we pray only because Jesus admonishes us to pray (Luke 18:1)? Should we pray when there is a need that exists in our lives? Should we pray after we have exhausted all options (minus God) Who is our source? The answer is No! We should pray at all times (1 Thessalonians 5:17), in the good and bad times, when there is plenty or little. Just as the Lord Jesus Christ prayed early in the morning, we also are admonished to do likewise (Psalm 5:3).
Why is prayer important to the believer?
As we highlight the importance of prayer in the life of the believer, here are some points for our edification:
a) Prayer is and always will remain the key that opens the door to God’s help and blessings (Colossians 4:2).
b) Prayer is a private relationship between God and you (Dr Myles Munroe).
c) Time in prayer is not wasted, but time invested. (Dr Myles Munroe).
d) Develop a personal prayer life. It is said, “A Prayless Christian is a Powerless Christian.”
e) Prayer is necessary to obtain personal salvation (Romans 10:13).
f) Prayer is necessary to obtain mercy and grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
g) Prayer helps us to know and understand the mind, will, and purpose of God for our lives (Psalm 57:2).
h) The greatest power God has given to men and women is the power of prayer (Kathryn Kuhlman).
As we begin this journey together into 2024, let us purpose in our hearts to build our relationship with God, The Father, Jesus Christ, His Son, and The Holy Spirit through a life of prayer.
Read: Psalm 5:1-2; Isaiah 65:24
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 3; Matthew 2:19-23; Matthew 3; Genesis 4:17-26; Genesis 5; Genesis 6
