Importance of Prayer

Jesus and Paul both emphasized the importance of prayer. In Luke 18:1 Jesus said, "...that men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Paul likewise in 1 Timothy 2:1-4 says, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."

Prayer includes asking and and receiving answers from God. But it is more than asking; it is confession, adoration, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. By nature, prayer is talking to God. It is the basis of successful Christian life, and is so important that not praying is considered sin (1 Sam. 12:23). When we pray, we should follow the model prayer Jesus gave to His disciples and address it to our heavenly Father - beginning with adoration, including thanksgiving and confession of sins, making reconciliation with others, praying for our needs and the needs of others, and concluding in Jesus' name (Matt 6:9-15; John 14:14).

Jesus pointed out that God heard the prayer of a humble publican rather than that of a proud Pharisee (Luke 18:14). God will answer prayer when we obey Him (1 John 3:22), confess sin (Ps 66:18), abide in Christ (John 15:7), ask according to the will of God (1 John 5:14), ask in faith (Mark 11:24), have pure motives (James 4:3), and live peaceably with your mate (1 Pet. 3:7).

We had a blessed time fasting and praying for 72 hours, seeking the face of the Lord. This has brought times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. I encourage you to keep seeking the face of God and He will surely establish and prosper you.

Looking forward to meet with you and yours this Friday morning. I am praying much for you so that the Lord will perfect that concerns you. Amen.

God bless you.

Agape,

Pastor Samuel Tressler