The disciples of Jesus asked Him to teach them how to pray, what is often referred to as the Lord’s Prayer. Some people believe this is the only prayer Jesus intended for us to follow, but that is not the case. The Lord’s Prayer represents a lifestyle of prayer, not the sole method of praying. In Matthew 6:9-15, we see how Jesus highlighted important elements to include in our prayers. However, some people only recite the Lord’s Prayer, which misses the broader understanding of prayer.
Here are some key points to consider for effective prayer:
1. *Begin with Worship and Thanksgiving*
Start your prayer by thanking God for your body and all its functions, such as the spinal cord working well, and for your financial situation, parents, spouse, children, and family jobs. Gratitude attracts further blessings. As Jesus demonstrated in His ministry, He always offered thanks to God before performing significant miracles (see Matthew 15:36 and John 11:41).
“Remember, the only thing that can hinder your blessings is thanklessness.”
2. *Make Your Requests Known*
After giving thanks, present your requests to the Lord. Many people ask God for help, but often they do so incorrectly because of ignorance. How can you be sure your request has reached God? Imagine applying for a job and submitting your CV among thousands of applicants. Those who have references are more likely to attract attention. Similarly, your prayers need a reference—specifically, a biblical reference.
3. *Praying with Biblical References*
For example, if you’re praying for better health, simply saying, “Jesus, heal me” may lead to a delayed response. However, if your prayer has a biblical reference, like 1 Peter 2:24, which states, “By His wounds you have been healed,” it strengthens your request. In Isaiah 41:21, the Lord says, “Produce your cause; bring forth your strong proofs.” Just as a lawyer presents evidence from law books to make a case, God wants us to represent our petitions with biblical proof relevant to our situations.
4. *Specific Prayers for Specific Needs*
If you’ve been waiting a long time to have a baby, don’t just pray, “Dear Lord, give me a baby.” Instead, incorporate Scripture like Psalm 113:9: “He makes the barren woman to keep house and to be a joyful mother of children.” Present your case to God: “Dear Lord, where is my baby?”
5. *For Financial Blessings*
You can pray, “My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
6. *For the Impossible*
Remember that “with men this is impossible, but all things are possible with God” (Matthew 19:26).
7. *For Help in Times of Fear*
If you feel helpless or nervous about a presentation, school project, or interview, pray using Isaiah 41:13: “For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; I am the Lord, who says to you, ‘Fear not; I will help you!’”
8. *Health Challenges*
If you’re facing bone issues despite following God’s commands, pray from Proverbs 3:8: “By fearing the Lord, it shall be health to your navel and marrow to your bones.”
9. *Facing Tough Challenges*
In difficult situations, maintain your faith and pray Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
*In Summary*
Your prayers should be filled with biblical references, which means you need to read the Bible regularly to find the appropriate verses for your prayers. However, if you are living contrary to God’s laws, this prayer style will yield no results. Proverbs 28:9 warns, “He who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be an abomination.”
Remember, prayers backed by biblical references attract angels to work on your behalf.