Why Should We Pray?

Prayer, according to Google definition is a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or an object of worship.

And it came to pass, that, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples - Luke 11: 1

When I first read our verse, my first impression was "so following Christ doesn't mean I have to know how to pray" since Jesus' disciple was the one asking Him and not a newbie follower. But since that disciple asked our Lord to teach him how to pray, then it could mean that it is really indeed a must for everyone to pray. Let's study further.

I am always thankful to God for having the privilege of being with my family. 

Power of Prayer

Sadly, not all people experienced the power of prayer since not all people pray and have different beliefs and faith. Most religious beliefs require their members to pray. Here in Saudi Arabia, muslims pray almost six times a day, I salute them for being so diligent in their prayers. Also, not everyone experience the power of prayer because most of their prayers were just lust of the flesh while some didn't experience it or don't want to believe it because God always says No to their prayers. So going back to our topic "Why Should We Pray?"  

To let God know our problems.

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. -- Psalm 50:15

When we feel troubled, let us hold on to God's promise that we just ask Him when we are in trouble.


To thank our Lord for our blessings.
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.  -- 1 Thes 5: 18

It would really feel nice when people you've helped will be grateful of what you did. Why don't we make our source of blessing a sweet hello and thank you through prayers.

To ask for forgiveness.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (NIV) -- 1 John 1: 9

We may have been forgiven for all our sins and trespasses when we were still unbelievers but we still need to ask forgiveness for all our new transgressions to Him.

It builds confidence and trust on God.

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 

And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. -- 1 John 5: 14-15

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. – James 4: 10

Knowing God is always by your side to aid you if in need of help and support, we build up our confidence on Him and trust as well. Also remember that even though some people keep on belittling you, with God, you will be lifted up by Him. 

He promised He will help.

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.  -- John 14: 13-14

If God promised us He will help then lets just hold on to that promise, right?

Because it is God's will.
Pray without ceasing. In  everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. -- 1 Thes 5: 17-18

Ever wondered what God's will for us is? Here is a revelation of one of His will - that is to pray.

To be closer to God.
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded. – James 4: 8

As a Christian, almost everyday prayer is a must not because I need it but it's a fellowship with Him. If we have lot's of things to do, the more reason for us to ask God for guidance and support.

Because Jesus does it too.
And it came to pass, that, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. -- Luke 11: 1

Yes, because Jesus does pray too. One more thing we should know, prayer is also a sign of humility. Prayer is one way of saying that you can't do anything without Him and you are asking the Lord that you need is power in order to achieve your goal.

IF God says NO to your Prayer

If God's answer to your prayer is NO even though you know that many people will benefit from it, just remember that God's way of thinking is different from ours. He is wise and powerful and knows all things so let us entrust everything to Him.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. {NIV} -- Isaiah 55:8

ONE TIP from Jesus himself:

And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; -- Luke 18: 1

It is a privilege for us Christians to have a direct connection to our Lord through our prayers. God bless you all.