Study on Prayer

Memory Verse
“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing;
in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”
– 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NASB®

DAY 1

What is Prayer?

Refreshing your memory of the true meanings of words is helpful since we live in a world that twists and misuses the English language. At some point, you will be instructed to do “word studies” comparing our English words to the Greek and Hebrew words used in the Bible.

Look up the definition of “Prayer” in the 1828 version of Noah Webster’s dictionary: [Prayer Definition]

  • Note the different elements of prayer mentioned in this definition

Jesus gave us the perfect example of how to pray in Matthew 6:9-13 [Read]. Many acrostics have been created to use as reminders of what to include in our prayers. My personal favorite, A.C.T.S., is below along with an example (scripture) and links to definitions for each term. Click the back arrow to return to this page if links don't open in a separate tab.

  • Read the definitions and then the scripture passages. As you read, identify:

Adoration  [Definition] (Psalm 89)
Confession [Definition] (Neh 1:5-11) 

Thanksgiving [Definition] (Psalm 118)
Supplication [Definition] (Psalm 86)  

 

  • Write a prayer using this A.C.T.S. model.

 

DAY 2

Why Pray?

  • Read James 4:8; James 5:13-18; Ephesians 6:12 and record your insights.
  • Read the Elijah account, that James mentioned, in 1 Kings 17:1-7; 1 Kings 18.
  • Read Matthew 7:7-12Take a few moments to think about the reasons why you pray and write them down. Also, include when you pray and where you pray. Ask God to reveal any areas that could use improvement….and to help you. Do you keep track of your requests and how God answers them? (I often read old journals to be reminded of how God has answered prayers. It refreshes my soul.)
  • Read Psalm 33, 34; 51; 108; 100…now select your favorite one and use it as a guide to pray.

Praying scripture is powerful. If you don’t already, start now. You’ll be blessed and amazed. It is the best weapon for battle.

 

 

DAY 3

Attitudes/Conditions/Motives/Promises

  • Write down anything you learn about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as you do this lesson.
  • Read Matthew 6:5-7; Luke 18:1-14; Ephesians 6:18; Rom 8:26,27 and record your insights.

Isn’t it good to know that even when we don’t know how to pray or have trouble doing so, we just have to ask and the Holy Spirit will take it from there?

 

  • Write down the conditions and promises found in John 14:12-14; 5:17; 1 John 5:13-15

The above verses address the importance of attitude, persistence, humility, and relationship regarding prayer. Why are they important?

  • Read Mark 11:12-26; James 1:5-8; James 4:1-8
  • How do doubt, faithlessness, and selfish desires impact our prayers?
  • How is your prayer life? Take time to examine it today. If it is lacking in any way, ask, and the Lord will help you.

If you haven’t memorized the memory verse, write it down on a notecard and place it where you’ll be reminded to do so. (I usually put one on the refrigerator and one in my purse.)

 

"The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

– James 5:16b NASB®

 

 

My prayer for you echoes Paul's for the saints and brethren in Colossae...  Read More

 

 

(This study on prayer just hits some high points and is not, by any means, an exhaustive study on the subject.)