Notes & Outlines on PRAYER

by Dr. Porter Barrington

STUDY INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE LESSONS

To get the most out of the lessons begin each study session with prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your teacher and fill you with His power and give you knowledge of His Word as you study. Remember that the Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible. “For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” ( 2 Peter 1:21 ). Know that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” ( 2 Timothy 3:17 ) All Scripture if profitable to all believers in one way or another. Some scriptures will lead YOU to repentance; others can fill you with joy. Some scriptures will put under conviction of sin. Some scriptures will tell you of the love of God. Here are eight good reasons why you should study these lessons:

1. Study for biblical foundation on which to grow.

2. Study for spiritual strength and power for this life in a world under the curse of sin.

3. Study that you may grow in Bible knowledge.

4. Study that you may be a success to the glory of God.

5. Study and give the Holy Spirit the opportunity to motivate you to greater things for the Lord.

6. Study that you may know God’s perfect will for your life.

7. Study that you may be an effective soul winner.

8. Study so that you may ”sanctify [set apart] the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1Peter 3:15)

When you fail to study God’s Word you stop growing. When you cease to grow spiritually, you start deteriorating immediately. When you stop climbing, you start slipping. You can never arrive spiritually in this life; there is always a higher plateau to be reached.

# THE POWER IN PRAYER

Prayer is as old as man is, as universal as religion, and as instinctive as breathing. Genesis 4:26 And as for Seth, to him also a son was born; and he named him Enoch. Then <men> began to call on the name of the LORD.

It is practiced in some form by all men of all faiths. Prayer springs from the heart with a need ‑ a need greater than man's ability to encounter. Prayer is man's acknowledgment of a being higher than himself.

Most men try to pray, yet so few know how. There are two kinds of prayers: the prayer that does not reach and the prayer that does reach God. This is illustrated by our Lord in the parable of the Pharisee and the publican.

Luke 18:9‑14 Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: {10} "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. {11} "The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank You that I am not like other men; extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. {12} 'I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ {13} "And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise <his> eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ {14} "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified <rather> than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Both men went to the same place, at the same time, for the same for the same purpose ‑ to pray.

The Pharisee prayed in his religious pride, expecting God to answer because he thought himself worthy. He informed God of his own goodness, that he was better than others. he boasted of his good works. He said, "I fast; I pay" This is the kind of prayer that does not reach God. It is self‑righteous prayer.

Now look at the publican and his prayer. He came to God in great humility, conscious of his unworthiness, confessing himself a sinner, and begging for mercy. This is the kind of prayer that does reach God. This is a righteous prayer. It is a rare privilege to pray; because it brings you into close fellowship with God, admitting your need for Him and your utter dependence upon Him.

I.

# What is Prayer?

Matthew 7:7‑8 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. {8} "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.

A. Prayer is asking and receiving; it is talking with God. It is making your request known to him in faith. The above Scripture is so simple on the surface, that we are in danger of failing to recognize its immensity. Our Lord instructs the believer to ask, seek, and knock; because these three words cover the whole spectrum of prayer.

1. Prayer is asking and receiving. When you know the will of God regarding a need, whether it is material or spiritual, you can ask and receive. This is prayer according to the revealed will of God.

1 John 5:14‑15 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. {15} And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

2. Prayer is seeking and finding. When you know the will of God regarding a need, whether is be material or spiritual, then you are to seek His will in prayer concerning this need until you find it. This is prayer for knowledge of the unrevealed will of God in a specific need.

Colossians 3:1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.

Jeremiah 29:12‑13 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. {13} And you will seek Me and find <Me>, when you search for Me with all your heart.

3. Prayer is knocking and opening. When you know the will of God, and yet you find a closed door, you are to knock, and keep on knocking until God opens the door. This is tenacious prayer ‑ prayer for mountain ‑ moving faith. Knocking prayer perseveres until the impossible becomes the possible. This is a miracle‑working prayer. All things are possible when you ask, seek, and knock.

Matthew 17:14‑21 And when they had come to the multitude, a man came to Him, kneeling down to Him and saying, {15} "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and suffers severely; for he often falls into the fire and often into the water. {16} "So I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him.” {17} Then Jesus answered and said, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him here to me.” {18} And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour. {19} Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" {20} So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. {21} "However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."

II.

Why Pray?

Luke 18:1 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, {2} saying: "There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. {3} "Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, 'get justice for me from my adversary.’ {4} "And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I do not fear God nor regard man, {5} 'yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’ “ {6} Then the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge said. {7} "And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? {8} "I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?"

A. We pray because:

1. Jesus said "at all times they ought to pray."

Prayer is imperative. You are commanded to pray.

Matthew 26:41 "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed <is> willing, but the flesh <is> weak."

2. Prayer is the only way to get things from God.

James 4:2 You lust and do not have. You murder, covet, and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet, you do not have because you do not ask.

3. There is joy in prayer.

John 16:24 "Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

4. Prayer will save you out of all your troubles.

Psalms 34:6 This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard <him>, And saved him out of all his troubles.

5. Prayer can unlock the treasure chest of God's wisdom.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

6. Prayer is a channel of power.

Jeremiah 33:3 'Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.'

7. It is a sin not to pray.

1 Samuel 12:23 "Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.

8. Sinners can be saved when they pray in faith.

Romans 10:13‑14 For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved”. {14} How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?

9. Jesus, while here in the flesh, prayed often to the Father. Now if Jesus, the Son of God, needed to pray, then we should "pray without ceasing" 1 Thess. 5:17.

III.

How to Pray:

Matthew 6:9‑13 "In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. {10} Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as <it is> in heaven. {11} Give us this day our daily bread. {12} And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. {13} And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

A. "Pray, then in this way." Our Lord gave this as a model prayer after one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples. (Luke 11:1b)

We are to pray:

1. To "Our Father who art in heaven," because He is all‑wise, all‑loving, and all‑powerful. We are also instructed to pray in the name of Jesus.

John 14:13‑14 "And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. {14} "If you ask anything in My name, I will do <it>.

We are to depend on the meditative influence of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 8:26‑27 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. {27} Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit <is>, because He makes intercession for the saints according to <the will of> God.

2. For His will to be done in everything.

James 4:15 Instead you <ought> to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that."

3. For the coming of the Kingdom.

Matthew 25:31‑46 "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. {32} "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides <his> sheep from the goats. {33} "And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. {34} "Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: {35} 'for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; {36} 'I <was> naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.' {37} "Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed <You>, or thirsty and give <You> drink? {38} 'When did we see You a stranger and take <You> in, or naked and clothe <You>? {39} 'Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ {40} "And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did <it> to one of the least of these My brethren, you did <it> to Me.' {41} "Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: {42} 'for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; {43} 'I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' {44} "Then they also will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' {45} "Then He will answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do <it> to one of the least of these, you did not do <it> to Me.' {46} "And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

4. For our daily necessities.

Luke 11:3 Give us day by day our daily bread.

5. For forgiveness, and practice forgiving other.

Matthew 18:21‑22 Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” {22} Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

6. For the leading of the Lord, and deliverance from evil.

Luke 22:42 saying, "Father , if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."

7. In faith, for "without faith it is impossible to please Him".

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith <it is> impossible to please <Him>, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and <that> He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

IV.

Where to Pray:

Acts 12:5 Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.

A. There was a remarkable change in the prayer life of the disciples after the resurrection of Jesus, and it is noted again after Pentecost. Before the death of Jesus, the disciples slept while Jesus prayed in the Garden.

Matthew 26:36‑46 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, "Sit here while I go and pray over there”. {37} And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. {38} Then He said to them, "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” {39} He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, "O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You <will>.” {40} Then He came to the disciples and found them asleep, and said to Peter, "What ? Could you not watch with Me one hour? {41} "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed <is> willing, but the flesh <is> weak.” {42} Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, "O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” {43} And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy. {44} So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. {45} Then He came to His disciples and said to them, "Are <you> still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. {46} "Rise , let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand."

But after his death and resurrection:

1. They assembled in the upper room, waiting for the coming of the Holy Spirit; and they prayed. We should always pray when assembled with believers.

Acts 1:13‑14 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James <the son> of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas <the son> of James. {14} These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.

2. They prayed as they went from house to house.

Acts 2:42‑47 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. {43} Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. {44} Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, {45} and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. {46} So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, {47} praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

3. They prayed in the church when Peter was in prison.

Acts 12:5‑19 Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. {6} And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. {7} Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by <him>, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, "Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off <his> hands. {8} Then the angel said to him, "Gird yourself and tie on your sandals"; and so he did. And he said to him, "Put on your garment and follow me.” {9} So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. {10} When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. {11} And when Peter had come to himself, he said, "Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and <from> all the expectation of the Jewish people.” {12} So, when he had considered <this>, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. {13} And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer. {14} When she recognized Peter's voice, because of <her> gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate. {15} But they said to her, "You are beside yourself!” Yet, she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, "It is his angel.” {16} Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened <the door> and saw him, they were astonished. {17} But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren”. And he departed and went to another place. {18} Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. {19} But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that <they> should be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed <there>.

4. Paul and Silas prayed in prison. Here we see Christians praying in the presence of unbelievers, but not to be heard of them. Never pray to please other present; pray only to please God.

Acts 16:25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

5. The most important place to pray is any place where you can be alone with God.

Matthew 6:6 "But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who <is> in the secret <place>; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

6. We are instructed to pray in all places at all times.

1 Timothy 2:8 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;

It is a great joy to be able to talk with God, any time, any place, under any condition, and to know that He will hear and answer.

V.

Hindrance To Prayer:

1 Peter 3:1‑6 Wives, likewise, <be> submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, {2} when they observe your chaste conduct <accompanied> by fear. {3} Do not let your adornment be <merely> outward; arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on <fine> apparel; {4} rather <let it be> the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible <beauty> of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. {5} For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, {6} as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror. {7} Husbands, likewise, dwell with <them> with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as <being> heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.

A. When prayers are not answered you should examine yourself in the light of God's Word. If you find anything not pleasing to God, confess it, believing God for forgiveness that your prayers may be answered.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us <our> sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1. An unharmonious relationship between husband and wife will hinder prayer.

2. Selfishness will hinder prayer.

James 4:3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend <it> on your pleasures.

3. An unforgiving spirit will hinder prayer. Many Christians go without answers to prayer because they have wronged others, or have been wronged and have failed to humble themselves and seek reconciliation.

Matthew 5:22‑24 "But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, 'Raca!' shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, 'You fool!' shall be in danger of hell fire. {23} "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, {24} "leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

4. Unbelief will hinder prayer.

James 1:6‑7 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. {7} For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith <it is> impossible to please <Him>, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and <that> He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

5. Known sin in the heart will hinder prayer.

Isaiah 59:1‑2 Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear. {2} But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden <His> face from you, So that He will not hear.

Psalms 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear.

When you pray, go to God in all humility. Ask Him to reveal anything in your life that is not pleasing to Him. Then judge it; confess it, calling it by name and forsake it. Pray in all simplicity and earnestness, believing, and God will hear and answer.

VI.

# Does God Answer All Prayers?

John 15:7 "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.

A. The Bible is filled with answered prayers from Genesis to Revelation. You are commanded to pray, and God has promised to answer.

Jeremiah 33:3 'Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.'

In Matt 15:7, there are two requirements for answers to prayer.

1. You are to abide in him. That is to continue in Him. it means to remain in His perfect will at all cost.

Romans 12:1‑2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, <which is> your reasonable service.

{2} And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what <is> that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

2. His words are to abide in you; they are to become a vital part of your life. You are to be filled with, and guided by, his words.

Colossians 3:16‑17 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. {17} And <whatever> you do in word or deed, <do> all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Meet these two requirements, and your prayers will be answered.

a. The answer is sometimes immediate. Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus, and as he began to sink, he prayed, "Lord, save me!" The answer was immediate.

Matthew 14:22‑31 Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. {23} And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. {24} But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. {25} Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. {26} And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. {27} But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” {28} And Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water”. {29} So He said, "Come “. And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. {30} But when he saw that the wind <was> boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!” {31} And immediately Jesus stretched out <His> hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

b. The answer is sometimes delayed. The delay is according to is will.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to <His> purpose.

The resurrection of Lazarus is a good example of delayed answer to prayer. Lazarus was sick. Mary and Martha sent for Jesus to come and heal him. But Jesus delayed coming until Lazarus was dead and in the tomb for four days. Then He came and raised Lazarus from the dead. The answer was delayed ‑ but not denied.

John 11:1‑44 Now a certain <man> was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary, and her sister Martha. {2} It was <that> Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. {3} Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, "Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick”. {4} When Jesus heard <that>, He said, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” {5} Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. {6} So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. {7} Then after this He said to <the> disciples, "Let us go to Judea again”. {8} <The> disciples said to Him, "Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone You, and are You going there again?” {9} Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. {10} "But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” {11} These things He said, and after that He said to them, "Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up”. {12} Then His disciples said, "Lord, if he sleeps he will get well.” {13} However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep. {14} Then Jesus said to them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. {15} "And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.” {16} Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” {17} So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. {18} Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away. {19} And many of the Jews had joined the women around Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. {20} Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. {21} Then Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. {22} "But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” {23} Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again.” {24} Martha said to Him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” {25} Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. {26} "And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” {27} She said to Him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” {28} And when she had said these things, she went her way and secretly called Mary her sister, saying, "The Teacher has come and is calling for you”. {29} As soon as she heard <that>, she arose quickly and came to Him. {30} Now Jesus had not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha met Him. {31} Then the Jews who were with her in the house, and comforting her, when they saw that Mary rose up quickly and went out, followed her, saying, "She is going to the tomb to weep there.” {32} Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” {33} Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. {34} And He said, "Where have you laid him?” They said to Him, "Lord, come and see”. {35} Jesus wept. {36} Then the Jews said, "See how He loved him!” {37} And some of them said, "Could not this Man, who opened the eyes of the blind, also have kept this man from dying?” {38} Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. {39} Jesus said, "Take away the stone.” Martha , the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, "Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been <dead> four days”. {40} Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” {41} Then they took away the stone <from the place> where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up <His> eyes and said, "Father , I thank You that You have heard Me. {42} "And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said <this>, that they may believe that You sent Me”. {43} Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus , come forth!” {44} And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Loose him, and let him go”.

c. The answer is sometimes "No”.

2 Corinthians 12:7‑10 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. {8} Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. {9} And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. {10} Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

When God answers with a "no", He always accompanies the answer with peace, and grace.

Philippians 4:6‑7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; {7} and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

d. The answer is sometimes different from what you expected. You pray for perseverance and God send tribulation ‑ because "tribulation brings about perseverance".

Romans 5:3 And not only <that>, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;

God answers all your prayers ‑ maybe not according to your

wishes … but according to his perfect will.

PRAYER (Asking, Communicating, Meditating)

the mystery of PRAYER

What is prayer?

BIBLE READING: Genesis 18:16-33

KEY BIBLE VERSE: So the other two went on toward Sodom, but the Lord remained with Abraham a while. Then Abraham approached him and said, “Will you kill good and bad alike? Suppose you find fifty godly people there within the city—will you destroy it, and not spare it for their sakes?” (Genesis 18:22-24, tlb)

Prayer is an opportunity to bring our will into line with God’s plan. Did Abraham change God’s mind? Of course not. The more likely answer is that God changed Abraham’s mind. Abraham knew that God is just and that he punishes sin, but he may have wondered about God’s mercy. Abraham seemed to be probing God’s mind to see how merciful he really was. He left his conversation with God convinced that God was both kind and fair. Our prayers will not change God’s mind, but they may change ours just as Abraham’s prayer changed his. Prayer helps us better understand the mind of God.

Prayer is an opportunity to demonstrate our trust in God. Why did God let Abraham question his justice and intercede for a wicked city? Abraham knew that God must punish sin, but he also knew from experience that God is merciful to sinners. God knew there were not ten righteous people in the city, but he was merciful enough to allow Abraham to intercede. He was also merciful enough to help Lot, Abraham’s nephew, get out of Sodom before it was destroyed. God does not take pleasure in destroying the wicked, but he must punish sin. He is both just and merciful. We should be thankful that God’s mercy extends to us.

BIBLE READING: Psalm 4:1-8

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Mark this well: The Lord has set apart the redeemed for himself. Therefore he will listen to me and answer when I call to him. (Psalm 4:3, tlb)

Prayer is speaking with God. The godly are those who are faithful and devoted to God. David knew that God would hear him when he called and would answer him. We too can be confident that God listens to our prayers and answers when we call on him. Sometimes we think that God will not hear us because we have fallen short of his high standards for holy living. But if we have trusted Christ for salvation, God has forgiven us, and he will listen to us. When you feel as though your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, remember that as a believer, you have been set apart by God—and he loves you. He hears and answers, although his answers may not be what you expect. Look at your problems in the light of God’s power, instead of looking at God in the shadow of your problems.

BIBLE READING: Hebrews 4:14-16

KEY BIBLE VERSE: So let us come boldly to the very throne of God and stay there to receive his mercy and to find grace to help us in our times of need. (Hebrews 4:16, tlb)

Prayer is an awesome privilege. Prayer is our approach to God, and we are to come boldly. Some Christians approach God meekly with heads hung low, afraid to ask him to meet their needs. Others pray flippantly, giving little thought to what they say. Come with reverence because he is your King. But also come with bold assurance because he is your Friend and Counselor.

MOTIVES FOR PRAYER

Why should we pray?

BIBLE READING: Genesis 25:19-34

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Isaac pleaded with Jehovah to give Rebecca a child, for even after many years of marriage she had no children. Then at last she became pregnant. (Genesis 25:21, tlb)

Prayer reflects our dependence on God. As Isaac pleaded with God for children, so the Bible encourages us to ask—and even plead—for our most personal and important requests. God wants to grant our requests, but he wants us to ask him. Even then, as Isaac learned, God may decide to withhold his answer for a while in order to (1) deepen our insight into what we really need, (2) broaden our appreciation for his answers, or (3) allow us to mature so we can use his gifts more wisely.

BIBLE READING: Exodus 17:1-7

KEY BIBLE VERSE: But, tormented by thirst, they cried out, “Why did you ever take us out of Egypt? Why did you bring us here to die, with our children and cattle too?” (Exodus 17:3, tlb)

Prayer is far better than complaining to each other. Again the people of Israel complained about their problem instead of praying. They had followed God’s leading into the desert, but now were doubting his ability to take care of them. Some problems can be solved by careful thought or by rearranging our priorities. Some can be solved by discussion and good counsel. But some problems can be solved only by prayer. We should make a determined effort to pray when we feel like complaining, because complaining only raises our level of stress. Prayer quiets our thoughts and emotions and prepares us to listen.

BIBLE READING: Judges 16:23-31

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Then Samson prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord Jehovah, remember me again—please strengthen me one more time, so that I may pay back the Philistines for the loss of at least one of my eyes.” (Judges 16:28, tlb)

Prayer can restore relationship with God. In spite of Samson’s past, God still answered his prayer and destroyed the pagan temple and worshipers. God still loved him. He was willing to hear Samson’s prayer of confession and repentance and use him this final time. One of the effects of sin in our life is to keep us from feeling like praying. But perfect moral behavior is not a condition for prayer. Do not let guilt feelings over sin keep you from your only means of restoration. No matter how long you have been away from God, he is ready to hear from you and restore you to a right relationship. Every situation can be salvaged if you are willing to turn again to him. If God could still work in Samson’s situation, he can certainly make something worthwhile out of yours.

METHODS OF PRAYER

How should we pray?

BIBLE READING: Ezra 8:1-36

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Then I declared a fast while we were at the Ahava River so that we would humble ourselves before our God; and we prayed that he would give us a good journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled. (Ezra 8:21, tlb)

We should pray with an attitude of deep respect for God. Ezra knew God’s promises to protect his people, but he did not take them for granted. He also knew that God’s blessings are appropriated through prayer; so Ezra and the people humbled themselves by fasting and praying. And their prayers were answered. Fasting humbled them because going without food was a reminder of their complete dependence on God. Fasting also gave them more time to pray and meditate on God.

Too often we pray glibly and superficially. Serious prayer, by contrast, requires concentration. It puts us in touch with God’s will and can really change us. Without serious prayer, we reduce God to a quick-service pharmacist with painkillers for our every ailment.

BIBLE READING: Nehemiah 2:1-10

KEY BIBLE VERSE: “Well, what should be done?” the king asked. With a quick prayer to the God of heaven, I replied, “If it please Your Majesty and if you look upon me with your royal favor, send me to Judah to rebuild the city of my fathers!” (Nehemiah 2:4, tlb)

We should pray with confidence in God’s grace. With little time to think, Nehemiah immediately prayed. Eight times in this book we read that he prayed spontaneously (2:4; 4:4-5, 9; 5:19; 6:14; 13:14, 22, 29). Nehemiah prayed at any time, even while talking with others. He knew that God is always in charge, is always present, and hears and answers every prayer. Nehemiah could confidently pray throughout the day because he had established an intimate relationship with God during times of extended prayer (1:4-7). If we want to reach God with our emergency prayers, we need to take time to cultivate a strong relationship with God through times of in-depth prayer.

BIBLE READING: Matthew 6:5-15

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Don’t recite the same prayer over and over as the heathen do, who think prayers are answered only by repeating them again and again. Remember, your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! (Matthew 6:7-8, tlb)

We should pray with humility and sincerity. Some people, especially the religious leaders, wanted to be seen as “holy”, and public prayer was one way to get attention. Jesus saw through their self-righteous acts, however, and taught that the essence of prayer is not public style, but private communication with God. There is a place for public prayer, but to pray only where others will notice you indicates that your real audience is not God.

BIBLE READING: Colossians 1:1-14

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Whenever we pray for you, we always begin by giving thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for we have heard how much you trust the Lord, and how much you love his people. (Colossians 1:3-4, tlb)

We should pray for others. Sometimes we wonder how to pray for missionaries and other leaders we have never met. Paul had never met the Colossians, but he faithfully prayed for them. His prayers teach us how to pray for others, whether we know them or not. We can request that they (1) understand God’s will, (2) gain spiritual wisdom, (3) please and honor God, (4) bear good fruit, (5) grow in the knowledge of God, (6) be filled with God’s strength, (7) have great endurance and patience, (8) stay full of Christ’s joy, and (9) give thanks always. All believers have these same basic needs. When you do not know how to pray for someone, use Paul’s prayer pattern for the Colossians.

MODelS OF PRAYER

What are the characteristics of prayers in the Bible?

BIBLE READING: Joshua 7:1-26

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the Lord, remaining there till evening. The elders of Israel did the same, and sprinkled dust on their heads. (Joshua 7:6, niv)

Biblical prayers are marked by humility. Joshua and the elders tore their clothing and sprinkled dust on their heads as signs of deep mourning before God. They were confused by their defeat at the small city of Ai after the spectacular Jericho victory, so they went before God in deep humility and sorrow to receive his instructions. When our life falls apart, we also should turn to God for direction and help. Like Joshua and the elders, we should humble ourselves so that we will be able to hear his words.

Biblical prayers are marked by honesty. Imagine praying this way to God. This is not a formal church prayer; it is the prayer of a man who is afraid and confused by what is happening around him. Joshua poured out his real thoughts to God. Hiding your needs from God is ignoring the only one who can really help. God welcomes your honest prayers and wants you to express your true feelings to him. Any believer can become more honest in prayer by remembering that God is all-knowing and all-powerful and that his love is everlasting.

BIBLE READING:2 Chronicles 6:1-42

KEY BIBLE VERSE: O Lord God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven and earth. You are the God who keeps his kind promises to all those who obey you, and who are anxious to do your will. (2 Chronicles 6:14, tlb)

Biblical prayers are wide-ranging and specific. As Solomon led the people in prayer, he asked God to hear their prayers concerning a variety of situations: (1) crime (6:2-23); (2) enemy attacks (6:24-25); (3) drought (6:26-27); (4) famine (6:28-31); (5) the influx of foreigners (6:32-33); (6) war (6:34-35); (7) sin (6:36-39). God is concerned with whatever we face, even the difficult consequences we bring upon ourself. He wants us to turn to him in prayer. When you pray, remember that God hears you. Do not let the extremity of your situation cause you to doubt his care for you.

BIBLE READING: Matthew 6:5-15

KEY BIBLE VERSE: This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. . . . And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:9-13, niv)

Biblical prayer is personal. The phrase “Our Father in heaven” indicates that God is not only majestic and holy, but also personal and loving. The first line of this model prayer is a statement of praise and a commitment to hallow, or honor, God’s holy name. We can honor God’s name by being careful to use it respectfully. If we use God’s name lightly, we are not remembering God’s holiness.

Biblical prayer recognizes God’s position. The phrase “Your kingdom come” is a reference to God’s spiritual reign, not Israel’s freedom from Rome. God’s kingdom was announced in the covenant with Abraham (8:11; Luke 13:28), is present as Christ reigns in the believer’s heart (Luke 17:21), and will be complete when all evil is destroyed and God establishes the new heaven and earth (Revelation 21:1).

Biblical prayer recognizes our position. When we pray “Your will be done,” we are not resigning ourself to fate, but praying that God’s perfect purpose will be accomplished in this world as well as in the next.

Biblical prayer demonstrates complete dependence. When we pray, “Give us today our daily bread”, we are acknowledging that God is our sustainer and provider. It is a misconception to think that we provide for our own needs . We must trust God daily to provide what he knows we need.

Biblical prayer asks God for guidance. God does not lead us into temptations, but sometimes he allows us to be tested by them. As disciples, we should pray to be delivered from these trying times and from Satan (“the evil one”) and his deceit. All Christians struggle with temptation. Sometimes it is so subtle that we do not even realize what is happening to us. God has promised that he will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). Ask God to help you recognize temptation and to give you strength to overcome it and choose God’s way instead.

BIBLE READING: John 17:1-26

KEY BIBLE VERSE: I am not praying for these alone but also for the future believers who will come to me because of the testimony of these. My prayer for all of them is that they will be of one heart and mind, just as you and I are, Father—that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me. (John 17:20-21, tlb)

Biblical prayer recognizes the spiritual warfare around us. This entire chapter is Jesus’ prayer. From it, we learn that the world is a tremendous battleground where the forces under Satan’s power and those under God’s authority are at war. Satan and his forces are motivated by bitter hatred for Christ and his forces. Jesus prayed for his disciples, including those of us who follow him today. He prayed that God would keep his chosen believers safe from Satan’s power, setting them apart and making them pure and holy, uniting them through his truth.

Biblical prayer is not escape from the world. Jesus did not ask God to take believers out of the world, but instead to use them in the world. Because Jesus sends us into the world, we should not try to escape from the world, nor should we avoid all relationships with non-Christians. We are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), and we are to do the work that God sent us to do.

Biblical prayer binds us with other believers. Jesus prayed for all who would follow him, including you and others you know. He prayed for unity (17:11), protection from the evil one (17:15), and sanctity (holiness) (17:17). Knowing that Jesus prayed for us should give us confidence as we work for his kingdom.