2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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GUIDANCE IN PRAYER
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
1 John 5:14-15
1 Timothy 2:1-3
“… first of all, supplications,
prayers, intercessions,
and giving of thanks, be made …”
GUIDANCE IN PRAYER
Prayer is the second lesson the children learn after knowing that there is God. The meaning of prayer is thus given in the Shorter Catechism: “Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God, for things agreeable to His will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgement of His mercies.” The Apostle restated in the text what the Lord Jesus Christ had said: “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.” The relationship that a believer has with the Lord Jesus has been explained. When it comes to prayer, there is this assurance of answer because of the regard that He has for those who believe in Him.
Many people are not informed that prayer does not change the mind of God, but it changes us to conform to His will. The Word of God is used to direct us in prayer. The Lord Jesus gave a sample prayer commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer. He taught other lessons with illustrations on prayer. Every petitioner has to be persistent in prayer. The Apostle added in the text “if we ask any thing according to his will” (1 John 5:14). We know that He will answer our prayers if our petitions are in accordance to His will.
The Lord also gave guidelines for private prayer in Matthew 6:6. There is also an example of family prayer in Acts 10:2, 30 by Cornelius. There are also examples of public prayers. In 1 Corinthians 14:14-17, Paul said that one who prays must pray in a known language and all can say “Amen” for the petitions made. Prayer requires purity of heart and belief, and are offered in Christ’s name. More guidelines teach us to adore God, to confess our sins, make supplications, intercede for others and give thanks to God. God will thus hearken to our petitions.
THOUGHT: God answers prayer.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to pray without ceasing.