We learn about the power and importance of prayer through the life of Jesus Himself.
In Hebrews 5:7, it is written: “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission.” Likewise, in Mark 1:35, we see: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” These verses show us that Jesus, during His time on earth, prioritized prayer and communion with God. As followers of Christ, we too should imitate His example and pray continuously, seeking to always be in the presence of God. When we remain close to God in prayer, we will be guided by His Spirit and blessed in all that we do.
In Matthew 7:7-8, we are encouraged by these words: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Jesus also assures us of this promise in Matthew 21:22: “Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive.” These verses remind us that God is always ready to respond to our prayers when we approach Him with sincere faith.
However, when we pray, it is important that our prayers align with the will of God. As 1 Timothy 2:1-4 teaches, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Prayer is not only about asking for our needs but also interceding for others and seeking the well-being of all.
Moreover, we must approach prayer with a clean heart and mind. Colossians 3:5-16 calls us to put away the old, sinful nature and embrace the virtues of a new life in Christ: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed… Rid yourselves of anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Instead, we are called to “put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another… And above all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” When we pray, we must ensure that our hearts are aligned with God’s love and righteousness.
We can offer this prayer:
“Jesus, teach us to pray without ceasing, so that we may be blessed in this life and receive the eternal blessings of life with You.”
