How not to Pray

This week, we continue our study on prayer – a topic often discussed, and one where we all desire to be more effective. Jesus taught in the opening verses of Chapter 18 concerning the benefits of persistent prayer. Continuing to take our requests to God, in the “Parable of the Persistent Widow”. She was consistent and persistent, even though the unjust judge could care less about her, he answered her requests, because she would not hush.

If an unjust judge responds positively to the requests of a widow which he did not value. How much more will our heavenly Father, who loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die for us, be willing to answer our prayers.

In our study today from Luke 18:9-14 Jesus now teaches us “How Not to Pray”, He had earlier taught in Luke 11 about how to pray in the Lord’s prayer. In the gospels He speaks several times about prayer, about praying in private in Matthew 6, about praying with boldness in Luke 11, praying by faith in Matt 21, praying with forgiveness in Mark 11, praying in agreement in Matt 19, praying in His name in John 14, and praying for strength to overcome temptation in Matt 26, and for our enemies in Matt 5.

Prayer was a topic that He often spoke on, there is a significant reason for this, for prayer is our lifeline to God. Sunday after Sunday I speak about the importance of studying God’s Word, saying if you want to be successful in your Christian Walk, you must fill your heart and mind with the Word of God. In like manner, if you have any hope of strengthening your relationship with God, you must spend time in prayer and be effective in prayer.  May we each take time daily to pray.