Reference: Prayer
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Is the offering of the emotions and desires of the soul to God, in the name and through the mediation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is the communion of the heart with God through the aid of the Holy Spirit, and is to the Christian the very life of the soul. Without this filial spirit, no one can be a Christian, Job 21:15; Ps 10:4.
In all ages God has delighted in the prayers of his saints. From the promulgation of the law, the Hebrews did not intermit public worship daily in the tabernacle or the temple. It consisted in offering the evening and morning sacrifices, every day, accompanied with prayers by the priests and Levites in that holy edifice. Every day also the priests offered sacrifices, incense, offerings, and first fruits for individuals; they performed ceremonies for the redemption of the firstborn, or for purification from pollution; in a word, the people came thither from all parts to discharge their vows and to perform their devotions, not only on great and solemn days, but also on ordinary days; but nothing of this was performed without prayer, 1Ch 23:30; Ne 11:17; Lu 1:10. Compare also 1Ki 8:22, and the Psalms of David for temple worship.
Pious men were accustomed to pray thrice in the day, at fixed hours, Ps 55:7; Da 6:10. See HOURS. Social, family, and secret prayer were all habitual with Bible saints; as well as brief ejaculations in the midst of their ordinary business, Ne 2:4. No uniform posture in prayer is enjoined in the Bible; standing with the hands outspread, 1Ki 8.22, bowing the head, Ge 24:26, kneeling, Lu 22:41, and prostration on the ground, Mt 26:39, were all practiced. Prayer should be offered with submission to God's will, fervently, perseveringly, and with a confiding reliance on God in Christ; it should be accompanied by humble confession and hearty thanksgiving, and with supplications for all living men, as well as for our friends and those nearest to us. Habitual prayer to God is duty enjoined upon us by sound reason and by right affections; and he who lives without it thereby reveals the atheism of his heart. God requires all men thus to worship him, Eze 36:37; Mt 7:1-11; Php 4:6; 1Ti 2:1-3; Jas 1:5; and for neglecting this duty there can be no sufficient excuse. It is often said that prayer cannot alter the unchangeable purposes of God; but the great scheme of his providence embraces every prayer that shall be offered, as well as the answer it shall receive. It is objected that prayer cannot increase his knowledge of our wants, nor his readiness to supply them; and that in any case he will do what is for the best. But he deems it best to grant many blessings in answer to prayer, which otherwise he would withhold; "He will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee." The words of David will be those of every truly praying man: "This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and delivered him out of all his troubles," Ps 34:6.
False and formed religion makes a merit of its prayers, as though "much speaking" and "vain repetitions" could atone for heartlessness. Hypocrites also are wont to pray chiefly that they may have praise of men. These sins Christ reproves in Mt 6:5-15, and gives to his disciples the form of the Lord's prayer as a beautiful model. In Eph 6:18; 1Th 5:17; 1Ti 2:8, Paul directs that believers should pray in all places and at all times, lifting up pure hands towards heaven, and blessing God for all things, whether in eating, drinking, or what ever they do; and that every thing be done to the glory of God, 1Co 10:31. In a word, our Savior has recommended to us to pray without ceasing, Lu 18:1; 21:36.
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"And, when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites; for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: verily I say to you, they have their reward. But when you pray, enter into your closet; and, having closed your door, pray to your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who seeth in secret will recompense you. read more. "And, when praying, use not vain repetitions, as the gentiles do; for they think that for their much speaking they shall be heard. Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knoweth of what things ye have need before ye ask Him. Thus, therefore, pray ye: 'Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so on earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And bring us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.' "For, if ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you; but, if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
"Judge not, that ye be not judged; for with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you. read more. "And why do you behold the mote that is in your brother's eye, but consider not the beam in your own eye? Or how will you say to your brother, 'Permit me to cast out the mote out of your eye;' and, behold, the beam is in your own eye? Hypocrite! Cast out first the beam out of your own eye; and then you will see clearly to cast out the mote out of your brother's eye. "Give not that which is holy to the dogs; neither cast your pearls before the swine, lest haply they trample them down with their feet; and, turning, rend you. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you; for every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you who, if his son shall ask him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he shall ask for a fish, will give him a serpent? If, therefore, ye, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father Who is in Heaven give good things to those asking Him?
And, going forward a little, He fell on His face, praying, and saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt."
and all the multitude of the people were praying without at the hour of the incense-offering.
And He spake a parable to them, to the end that they ought always to pray, and not to faint;
But watch ye at every season, praying that ye may have full strength to escape all these things that are about to come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man."
And He was parted from them about a stone's throw; and, kneeling down, He prayed,
Whether, therefore, ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God,
with all prayer and supplication praying at every opportunity in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints;
Be anxious for nothing; but, in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God:
But speak the things which become the healthful teaching; that aged men be temperate, grave, sober-minded, sound in faith, in love, in patience; read more. that aged women, in like manner, be reverent in demeanor, not slanderers, not enslaved to much wine, teachers of that which is good;
sound speech not to be condemned; that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say concerning us.
But, if any of you is lacking in wisdom, let him ask from God, Who giveth to all liberally, and upbraideth not; and it will be given him;
Easton
is converse with God; the intercourse of the soul with God, not in contemplation or meditation, but in direct address to him. Prayer may be oral or mental, occasional or constant, ejaculatory or formal. It is a "beseeching the Lord" (Ex 32:11); "pouring out the soul before the Lord" (1Sa 1:15); "praying and crying to heaven" (2Ch 32:20); "seeking unto God and making supplication" (Job 8:5); "drawing near to God" (Ps 73:28); "bowing the knees" (Eph 3:14).
Prayer presupposes a belief in the personality of God, his ability and willingness to hold intercourse with us, his personal control of all things and of all his creatures and all their actions.
Acceptable prayer must be sincere (Heb 10:22), offered with reverence and godly fear, with a humble sense of our own insignificance as creatures and of our own unworthiness as sinners, with earnest importunity, and with unhesitating submission to the divine will. Prayer must also be offered in the faith that God is, and is the hearer and answerer of prayer, and that he will fulfil his word, "Ask, and ye shall receive" (Mt 7:7-8; 21:22; Mr 11:24; Joh 14:13-14), and in the name of Christ (20/type/worrell'>Mr 16:20,20; 15:16; Eph 2:18; 5:20; Col 3:17; 1Pe 2:5).
Prayer is of different kinds, secret (Mt 6:6); social, as family prayers, and in social worship; and public, in the service of the sanctuary.
Intercessory prayer is enjoined (Nu 6:23; Job 42:8; Isa 62:6; Ps 122:6; 1Ti 2:1; Jas 5:14), and there are many instances on record of answers having been given to such prayers, e.g., of Abraham (Ge 17:18,20; 18:23-32; 20:7,17-18), of Moses for Pharaoh (Ex 8:12-13,30-31; 9:33), for the Israelites (Ex 17:11,13; 32:11-14,31-34; Nu 21:7-8; De 9:18-19,25), for Miriam (Nu 12:13), for Aaron (De 9:20), of Samuel (1Sa 7:5-12), of Solomon (1Ki 8; 2Ch 6), Elijah (1Ki 17:20-23), Elisha (2Ki 4:33-36), Isaiah (2Ki 19), Jeremiah (Jer 42:2-10), Peter (Ac 9:40), the church (Ac 12:5-12), Paul (Ac 28:8).
No rules are anywhere in Scripture laid down for the manner of prayer or the attitude to be assumed by the suppliant. There is mention made of kneeling in prayer (1Ki 8:54; 2Ch 6:13; Ps 95:6; Isa 45:23; Lu 22:41; Ac 7:60; 9:40; Eph 3:14, etc.); of bowing and falling prostrate (Ge 24:26,52; Ex 4:31; 12:27; Mt 26:39; Mr 14:35, etc.); of spreading out the hands (1Ki 8:22,38,54; Ps 28:2; 63:4; 88:9; 1Ti 2:8, etc.); and of standing (1Sa 1:26; 1Ki 8:14,55; 2Ch 20:9; Mr 11:25; Lu 18:11,13).
If we except the "Lord's Prayer" (Mt 6:9-13), which is, however, rather a model or pattern of prayer than a set prayer to be offered up, we have no special form of prayer for general use given us in Scripture.
Prayer is frequently enjoined in Scripture (Ex 22:23,27; 1Ki 3:5; 2Ch 7:14; Ps 37:4; Isa 55:6; Joe 2:32; Eze 36:37, etc.), and we have very many testimonies that it has been answered (Ps 3:4; 4:1; 6:8; 18:6; 28:6; 30:2; 34:4; 118:5; Jas 5:16-18, etc.).
Abraham's servant prayed to God, and God directed him to the person who should be wife to his master's son and heir (Ge 24:10-20).
Jacob prayed to God, and God inclined the heart of his irritated brother, so that they met in peace and friendship (Ge 32:24-30; 33:1-4).
Samson prayed to God, and God showed him a well where he quenched his burning thirst, and so lived to judge Israel (Jg 15:18-20).
David prayed, and God defeated the counsel of Ahithophel (2Sa 15:31; 16:20-23; 17:14-23).
Daniel prayed, and God enabled him both to tell Nebuchadnezzar his dream and to give the interpretation of it (Da 2:16-23).
Nehemiah prayed, and God inclined the heart of the king of Persia to grant him leave of absence to visit and rebuild Jerusalem (Ne 1:11; 2:1-6).
Esther and Mordecai prayed, and God defeated the purpose of Haman, and saved the Jews from destruction (Es 4:15-17; 6:7-8).
The believers in Jerusalem prayed, and God opened the prison doors and set Peter at liberty, when Herod had resolved upon his death (Ac 12:1-12).
Paul prayed that the thorn in the flesh might be removed, and his prayer brought a large increase of spiritual strength, while the thorn perhaps remained (2Co 12:7-10).
Prayer is like the dove that Noah sent forth, which blessed him not only when it returned with an olive-leaf in its mouth, but when it never returned at all., Robinson's Job.
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But when you pray, enter into your closet; and, having closed your door, pray to your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who seeth in secret will recompense you.
Thus, therefore, pray ye: 'Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so on earth. read more. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And bring us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.'
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you; for every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened.
And all things whatsoever ye ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."
And, going forward a little, He fell on His face, praying, and saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt."
Therefore, I say to you, all things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them, and ye shall have them. And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
And going forward a little, He fell on the ground, and was praying, that, if it were possible, the hour might pass away from Him.
And the soldiers led Him away within the court, which is the Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.
And they, going forth, preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word through the signs closely following.
And they, going forth, preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word through the signs closely following.
The Pharisee, having taken his stand, was praying these things with himself: 'God, I thank Thee that I am not as the rest of men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax-collector!
"But the tax-collector, standing afar off, would not lift up even his eyes to heaven, but was smiting his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!'
And He was parted from them about a stone's throw; and, kneeling down, He prayed,
And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, this will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it.
And, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to them!" And, having said this, he fell asleep.
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
Now about that time Herod the king put forth his bands to harm some of the assembly. And he slew James, the brother of John, with the sword; read more. and, seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. And then were the days of unleavened bread. And, having seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him to four quaternions of soldiers to guard him; intending, after the passover, to bring him up to the people. Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf.
Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf. And, when Herod was about to bring him forth, in that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains; and guards before the door were keeping the prison.
And, when Herod was about to bring him forth, in that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains; and guards before the door were keeping the prison. And, behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shined in the cell; and, smiting the side of Peter, he raised him up, saying, "Rise up quickly!" And his chains fell off from his hands.
And, behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shined in the cell; and, smiting the side of Peter, he raised him up, saying, "Rise up quickly!" And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said to him, "Gird yourself, and bind on your sandals." And he did so. And he says to him, "Cast your garment around you, and follow me."
And the angel said to him, "Gird yourself, and bind on your sandals." And he did so. And he says to him, "Cast your garment around you, and follow me." And, going forth, he was following him; and he knew not that it was true, which was being done by the angel, but was thinking that he saw a vision.
And, going forth, he was following him; and he knew not that it was true, which was being done by the angel, but was thinking that he saw a vision. And, having passed the first and second watch; they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and, going out, they passed on through one street, and straightway the angel departed from him.
And, having passed the first and second watch; they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and, going out, they passed on through one street, and straightway the angel departed from him. And Peter, having come to himself, said, "Now I know truly that the Lord sent forth His angel, and delivered me out of Herod's hand, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.
And Peter, having come to himself, said, "Now I know truly that the Lord sent forth His angel, and delivered me out of Herod's hand, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And, having considered it, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who is surnamed Mark; where many were gathered together and were praying.
And, having considered it, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who is surnamed Mark; where many were gathered together and were praying.
And it happened that the father of Publius was lying prostrate, afflicted with fever and dysentery; to whom Paul coming, and praying, laying his hands on him, healed him.
And, that I might not be exalted overmuch by the exceeding greatness of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I might not be exalted overmuch. Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. read more. And He hath said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you; for My power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Wherefore, I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then am I powerful.
because through Him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father,
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father,
giving thanks always for all things, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God, even the Father;
And whatsoever ye do in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
sound speech not to be condemned; that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say concerning us.
let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our body washed with pure water,
Is anyone among you sick? let him call for the elders of the assembly; and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord;
Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much. Elijah was a man of like nature with us; and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it rained not on the earth for three years and six months; read more. and again he prayed, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth its fruit.
Fausets
(1) Techinnah, from chandra "to be gracious"; hithpael, "to entreat grace"; Greek deesis.
(2) Tephillah, from hithpael of paalal, "to seek judgment"; Greek proseuchee. "Prayer," proseuchee, for obtaining blessings, implying devotion; "supplication," deesis, for averting evil. "Prayer" the general term; "supplication" with imploring earnestness (implying the suppliant's sense of need); enteuxis, intercession for others, coming near to God, seeking an audience in person, generally in another's behalf. Thanksgiving should always go with prayer (1Ti 2:1; Eph 6:18; Php 4:6). An instinct of every nation, even pagan (Isa 16:12; 44:17; 45:20; 1Ki 18:26). In Seth's days, when Enos (frailty) was born to him, "men began to call upon the name of Jehovah."
The name Enos embodies the Sethites' sense of human frailty urging them to prayer, in contrast to the Cainites' self sufficient "pride of countenance" which keeps sinners from seeking God (Ps 10:4). While the Cainites by building a city and inventing arts were founding the kingdom of this world, the Sethites by united calling upon Jehovah constituted the first church, and laid the foundation of the kingdom of God. The name of God is His whole self manifestation in relation to man. On this revealed divine character of grace and power believers fasten their prayers (Ps 119:49; Pr 18:10). The sceptic's objections to prayer are:
(1) The immutability of nature's general laws. But nature is only another name for the will of God; that will provides for answers to prayer in harmony with the general scheme of His government of the world. There are higher laws than those observed in the material world; the latter are subordinate to the former.
(2) God's predestinating power, wisdom and love make prayer useless and needless. But man is made a free moral agent; and God who predestines the blessing predestines prayer as the means to that end (Mt 24:20).
Prayer produces and strengthens in the mind conscious dependence on God, faith, and love, the state for receiving and appreciating God's blessing ordained in answer to prayer. Moreover prayer does not supersede work; praying and working are complementary of each other (Ne 4:9). Our weakness drives us to cast ourselves on God's fatherly love, providence, and power. Our "Father knoweth what things we have need of before we ask Him"; "we know not what things we should pray for as we ought" (Mt 6:8; Ro 8:26). Yet "the Spirit helpeth our infirmities," and Jesus teaches us by the Lord's prayer how to pray (Luke 11). Nor is the blessing merely subjective; but we may pray for particular blessings, temporal and spiritual, in submission to God's will, for ourselves. "Thy will be done," (Mt 6:10) and "if we ask anything according to His will" (1Jo 5:14-15), is the limitation. Every truly believing prayer contains this limitation. God then grants either the petition or something better than it, so that no true prayer is lost (2Co 12:7-10; Lu 22:42; Heb 5:7).
Also "intercessions" for others (the effect of which cannot be merely subjective) are enjoined (1Ti 2:1). God promises blessings in answer to prayer, as the indispensable condition of the gift (Mt 7:7-8). Examples confirm the command to pray. None prayed so often as Jesus; early in the morning "a great while before day" (Mr 1:35), "all the night" (Lu 6:12), in Gethsemane with an "agony" that drew from Him "sweat as it were great drops of blood falling to the ground" (Lu 22:44); "when He was being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened" (Lu 3:21); "as He prayed" He was transfigured (Lu 9:29); "as He was praying in a certain place" (Lu 11:1) one disciple struck by His prayer said, "Lord teach us to pray as John also taught his disciples" (Lu 11:1) (an interesting fact here only recorded). Above all, the intercession in John 17, His beginning of advocacy with the Father for us; an example of the highest and holiest spiritual communion.
The Holy Spirit in believers "maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God." "He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit," and so casts off all that is imperfect and mistaken in our prayers, and answer s the Spirit who speaks in them what we would express aright but cannot (Ro 8:26-27,34). Then our Intercessor at God's right hand presents out prayers, accepted on the ground of His merits and blood (Joh 14:13; 15:16; 16:23-27). Thus God incarnate in the God-man Christ reconciles God's universal laws, i.e. His will, with our individual freedom, and His predestination with our prayers. Prayer is presupposed as the adjunct of sacrifice, from the beginning (Ge 4:4). Jacob's wrestling with the divine Angel and prayer, in Genesis 32, is the first full description of prayer; compare the inspired continent on it, Ho 12:3-6. But Abraham's intercession for Sodom (Genesis 18), and Isaac's, preceded (Ge 24:63 margin).
Moses' law prescribes sacrifice, and takes for granted prayer (except the express direction for prayer, De 26:12-15) in connection with it and the sanctuary, as both help us to realize God's presence; but especially as prayer needs a propitiation or atonement to rest on, such as the blood of the sacrifices symbolizes. The temple is "the house of prayer" (Isa 56:7). He that hears player (Ps 65:2) three manifested Himself. Toward it the prayer of the nation, and of individuals, however distant, was directed (1Ki 8:30,35,38,46-49; Da 6:10; Ps 5:7; 28:2; 138:2). Men used to go to the temple at regular hours for private prayer (Lu 18:10; Ac 3:1). Prayer apparently accompanied all offerings, as did the incense its symbol (Ps 141:2; Re 8:3-4; Lu 1:10; De 26:12-15, where a form of prayer is prescribed).
The housetop and mountain were chosen places for prayer, raised above the world. The threefold Aaronic blessing (Nu 6:24-26), and Moses' prayer at the moving (expanded in Psalm 68) and resting of the ark (Nu 10:35-36), are other forms of prayer in the Mosaic legislation. The regular times of prayer were the third (morning sacrifice), sixth, and ninth hours (evening sacrifice); Ps 55:17; Da 6:10; 9:21; Ac 3:1; 10:3; 2:15. "Seven times a day" (Ps 119:164), i.e. continually, seven being the number for perfection; compare Ps 119:147-148, by night. Grace was said before meals (Mt 15:36; Ac 27:35).
Posture. Standing: 1Sa 1:26; Mt 6:5; Mr 11:25; Lu 18:11. Kneeling, in humiliation: 1Ki 8:54; 2Ch 6:13; Ezr 9:5; Ps 95:6; Da 6:10. Prostration: Jos 7:6; 1Ki 18:42; Ne 8:6. In the Christian church, kneeling only: (Ac 7:60) Stephen, (Ac 9:40) Peter, (Ac 20:36; 21:5) Paul imitating Christ in Gethsemane. In post apostolic times, standing on the Lord's day, and from Easter to Whitsunday, to commemorate His resurrection and ours with Him. The hands were lifted up, or spread out (Ex 9:33; Ps 28:2; 134:2).
The spiritual songs in the Pentateuch (Ex 15:1-19; Nu 21:17-18; Deuteronomy 32) and succeeding books (Judges 5; 2/1/type/worrell'>1Sa 2:1-10,2 Samuel 22; 1Ki 8:23-53; Ne 9:5-38) abound in prayer accompanied with praise. The Psalms give inspired forms of prayer for public and private use. Hezekiah prayed in the spirit of the Psalms. The prophets contain many such prayers (Isaiah 12; 25; 26; Isa 37:14-20; 38:9-20; Da 9:3-23). The praise and the reading and expounding of the law constituted the service of the synagogue under the sheliach hatsibbur, "the apostle" or "legate of the church."
THE LORD'S PRAYER, (Mt 6:9-13) couched in the plural, "when ye pray, say, Our Father ... give us ... forgive us ... lead us" shows that forms suit public joint prayer. "Thou when thou prayest, enter into thy closet ... shut thy door, pray to thy Father [which is] in secret" (Mt 6:6); in enjoining private prayer Christ gives no form. The Lord's prayer is our model. The invocation is the plea on which the prayer is grounded, God's revealed Fatherhood. Foremost stand the three petitions for hallowing God's name, God's kingdom coming, God's will being done below as above; then our four needs, for bread for body and soul, for forgiveness producing a forgiving spirit in ourselves, or not being led into temptation, and for deliverance from evil. The petitions are seven the sacred number (Mt 6:5-13).
Prayer was the breath of th
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but I say to you, Love your enemies; and pray for those who persecute you;
"And, when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites; for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: verily I say to you, they have their reward.
"And, when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites; for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: verily I say to you, they have their reward. But when you pray, enter into your closet; and, having closed your door, pray to your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who seeth in secret will recompense you.
But when you pray, enter into your closet; and, having closed your door, pray to your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who seeth in secret will recompense you.
But when you pray, enter into your closet; and, having closed your door, pray to your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who seeth in secret will recompense you. "And, when praying, use not vain repetitions, as the gentiles do; for they think that for their much speaking they shall be heard. read more. Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knoweth of what things ye have need before ye ask Him.
Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knoweth of what things ye have need before ye ask Him. Thus, therefore, pray ye: 'Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name.
Thus, therefore, pray ye: 'Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so on earth.
Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so on earth.
Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so on earth. Give us this day our daily bread.
Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And bring us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.'
And bring us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.'
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you; for every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened.
And the blind men came to Him, when He entered into the house; and He saith to them, "Believe ye that I am able to do this?" They say to Him, "Yes, Lord."
pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that He send forth laborers into His harvest.
He took the seven loaves and the fishes; giving thanks, He broke, and was giving to the disciples; and the disciples to the multitudes.
And all things whatsoever ye ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."
And pray, that your flight be not in winter, nor on a sabbath;
And, having risen very early, by night, He went out into a desert place, and was there praying.
Therefore, I say to you, all things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them, and ye shall have them. And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
and all the multitude of the people were praying without at the hour of the incense-offering.
Now it came to pass, when all the people were immersed, that as Jesus also was immersed, and was praying, Heaven was opened,
And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into the mountain to pray; and He was spending the whole night in prayer to God.
And it came to pass, as He was praying, that the appearance of His countenance was altered, and His raiment became white and dazzling.
And it came to pass, as He was in a certain place praying, that, when He ceased, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."
And it came to pass, as He was in a certain place praying, that, when He ceased, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."
And He said to them, "Who of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; forasmuch as a friend of mine came to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him;' read more. and he from within, answering, shall say, 'Trouble me not; already the door has been shut, and my children are with me in the bed; I cannot rise and give you.' I say to you, even if he will not, rising up, give to him because of his being his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he, rousing himself, will give him as many as he needs. And I say to you, ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: for every one who asks receives; and he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks it shall be opened. And of which of you that is a father shall his son ask bread, and he give him a stone? or a fish, and he, instead of a fish, give him a serpent? or if he shall ask an egg, will he give him a scorpion? If ye, then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"
And He spake a parable to them, to the end that they ought always to pray, and not to faint;
Two men went up into the temple to pray; one a Pharisee, and the other a tax-collector. The Pharisee, having taken his stand, was praying these things with himself: 'God, I thank Thee that I am not as the rest of men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax-collector!
I say to you, this man went down justified to his house, rather than the other; because every one who exalts himself shall be humbled, but he who humbles himself shall be exalted."
saying, "Father, if Thou art willing, remove this cup from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Thine, be done."
And, being in an agony, He was praying more earnestly. And His sweat became, as it were, large drops of blood falling down upon the ground!
when, therefore, the multitude saw that Jesus was not there, nor His disciples, they themselves entered into the boats, and came to Capernaum, seeking Jesus.
We know that God heareth not sinners; but, if any one is a worshiper of God, and does His will, him He heareth.
And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, this will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Ye did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.
And in that day ye will ask nothing of Me: verily, verily, I say to you, if ye shall ask anything of the Father, He will give it you in My name. Hitherto ye asked nothing in My name; ask, and ye will receive, that your joy may be made full. read more. "These things have I spoken to you in proverbs. An hour is coming, when I will no more speak to you in proverbs, but will tell you plainly of the Father. In that day ye shall ask in My name: and I say not to you, that I will ask the Father for you; for the Father Himself loveth you, because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from the Father.
These all were continuing with one accord in prayer, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
And, praying, they said, "Thou, Lord, Who knowest the hearts of all men, show which of these two Thou didst choose, to take the place of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas fell away, that he might go to his own place."
And, when the day of Pentecost was being fulfilled they were all together in one place;
for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, for it is the third hour of the day;
and they were constantly attending the teaching of the apostles and the fellowship, and the breaking of bread, and the prayers.
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at their homes, were partaking of food in gladness and singleness of heart;
Now Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer??he ninth hour.
Now Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer??he ninth hour.
And they, having heard it, lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, "Lord, Thou Who didst make the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all things in them;
And they, having heard it, lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, "Lord, Thou Who didst make the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all things in them;
And they, having heard it, lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, "Lord, Thou Who didst make the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all things in them; Who, through the Holy Spirit by the mouth of our father David, Thy servant, didst say, 'Why did the gentiles rage, and the peoples premeditate empty things?
Who, through the Holy Spirit by the mouth of our father David, Thy servant, didst say, 'Why did the gentiles rage, and the peoples premeditate empty things? The kings of the earth did set themselves in array; and the rulers assembled together, against the Lord, and against His Christ.'
The kings of the earth did set themselves in array; and the rulers assembled together, against the Lord, and against His Christ.' For, of a truth, there were gathered together in this city, against Thy Holy Child Jesus, Whom Thou didst anoint, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the gentiles and peoples of Israel??28 to do whatsoever Thy hand and Thy counsel predetermined to come to pass.
For, of a truth, there were gathered together in this city, against Thy Holy Child Jesus, Whom Thou didst anoint, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the gentiles and peoples of Israel??28 to do whatsoever Thy hand and Thy counsel predetermined to come to pass.
And now, Lord, look upon their threatenings; and grant to Thy servants to speak Thy word with all boldness,
And now, Lord, look upon their threatenings; and grant to Thy servants to speak Thy word with all boldness, by stretching forth Thy hand for healing; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Thy Holy Child Jesus."
by stretching forth Thy hand for healing; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Thy Holy Child Jesus."
And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were wrought among the people; and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.
but we will devote ourselves steadfastly to prayer and to the ministry of the word."
whom they set before the apostles; and, having prayed, they laid their hands on them.
And, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to them!" And, having said this, he fell asleep.
who, indeed, having come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit;
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
And he, looking intently on him, and becoming much afraid, said, "What is it, lord?" And he said to him, "Your prayers and alms went up for a memorial before God.
and says, 'Cornelius, your prayer was heard, and your alms were remembered before God.
Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf.
Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf.
And, while they were ministering to the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Separate now to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then, having fasted and prayed, and having laid hands on them, they sent them away.
And about midnight Paul and Silas, while engaged in prayer, were singing praise to God; and the prisoners were listening to them.
And about midnight Paul and Silas, while engaged in prayer, were singing praise to God; and the prisoners were listening to them.
And, having said these things, bowing his knees, he prayed with them all.
And, having said these things, bowing his knees, he prayed with them all.
And, when it came to pass that we completed the days, going forth, we were resuming our journey; they all, with wives and children, accompanying us out of the city; and, kneeling down on the beach, having prayed, we bade one another farewell;
And, when it came to pass that we completed the days, going forth, we were resuming our journey; they all, with wives and children, accompanying us out of the city; and, kneeling down on the beach, having prayed, we bade one another farewell;
And, having said these things, and taken bread, he gave thanks to God in presence of them all; and, breaking it, he began to eat.
For God is my witness, Whom I serve in my spirit in the Gospel of His Son, how unceasingly I make mention of you always in my prayers, making request, if by any means now at length, I may be prospered by the will of God to come to you.
And, in like manner, the Spirit also helpeth our weakness; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And, in like manner, the Spirit also helpeth our weakness; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He Who searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
who is he that condemns? It is Christ Who died, yea, rather, That was raised from the dead, Who is at the right hand of God, Who also is making intercession for us.
Now to Him Who is able to establish you, according to my Gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept in silence during eternal ages, but now made manifest, and through the prophetic Scriptures, according to the commandment of the eternal God, made known to all nations for obedience to the faith: read more. to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.
(for He saith, "At an acceptable time I heard Thee, and in a day of salvation did I succor Thee;" behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation);
And, that I might not be exalted overmuch by the exceeding greatness of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I might not be exalted overmuch. Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. read more. And He hath said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you; for My power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Wherefore, I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then am I powerful.
that we may no longer be babes, billow-tossed, and carried about with every wind of teaching, in the sleight of men, in the craftiness suited to the artifice of error; but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him, Who is the Head, Christ; read more. from Whom all the body, fitly framed and knit together through every joint of supply, according to the working in due measure of each single part, secures the growth of the body to the upbuilding of itself in love. This, therefore, I say, and testify in the Lord, that ye no longer walk as the gentiles also walk, in the vanity of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their hearts; who, indeed, having become without feeling, delivered themselves up to lasciviousness for the working of all uncleanness with greediness. But ye did not so learn Christ; if, indeed, ye heard Him, and were taught in Him, as truth is in Jesus;
with all prayer and supplication praying at every opportunity in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints;
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you??4 always, in every supplication of mine on behalf of you all, making supplication with joy??5 on account of your fellowship for the Gospel, from the first day until now;
having become persuaded of this very thing, that He Who began in you a good work will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ; even as it is right for me to think this in behalf of you all; because ye have me in your heart, both in my bonds and in the defense and confirmation of the Gospel, all of you being partakers with me of the grace. read more. For God is my witness, how I long for you all in the tender affections of Christ Jesus. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in full knowledge and all discernment; so that ye may approve the things that are excellent; that ye may be pure and without offense to the day of Christ; being filled with the fruit of righteousness, which is through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Be anxious for nothing; but, in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God:
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, cease not praying for you, and asking that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of His will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, to walk worthily of the Lord to all pleasing, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God; read more. strengthened with all power, according to the might of His glory, unto all patience and long-suffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father, Who made us meet for the portion of the inheritance of the saints in light; Who delivered us out of the dominion of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love; in Whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins; Who is the image of the invisible God, Primal Source of all creation;
I exhort, therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;
I exhort, therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;
that aged men be temperate, grave, sober-minded, sound in faith, in love, in patience;
sound speech not to be condemned; that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say concerning us.
Who, in the days of His flesh, having offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears to Him Who was able to save Him from death, and having been heard by reason of His godly fear,
Now the God of peace, Who brought up from the dead the Great Shepherd of the sheep, in virtue of the blood of an eternal covenant, even our Lord Jesus, make you perfect in every good thing to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to Whom be the glory forever. Amen.
but let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, wind-driven and tossed.
Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may spend it on your pleasures.
Is anyone among you sick? let him call for the elders of the assembly; and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and, if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him. read more. Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much.
Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much.
and whatsoever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments, and do the things that are pleasing before Him.
And this is the confidence which we have toward Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us;
And this is the confidence which we have toward Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us; and, if we know that He heareth us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we asked of Him.
and, if we know that He heareth us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we asked of Him.
And another angel came, and stood over the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given to him much incense, that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God out of the hand of the angel.
Hastings
Prayer in the Bible is the uplifting of the heart to God with whatever motive. It includes supplication, whether in view of material or of spiritual needs; intercession, for individuals or communities; confession of sin
See Verses Found in Dictionary
"And, when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites; for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: verily I say to you, they have their reward.
"And, when praying, use not vain repetitions, as the gentiles do; for they think that for their much speaking they shall be heard.
"And, when praying, use not vain repetitions, as the gentiles do; for they think that for their much speaking they shall be heard. Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knoweth of what things ye have need before ye ask Him.
Be not, therefore, like them; for your Father knoweth of what things ye have need before ye ask Him.
"For, if ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you;
But seek ye first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.
And Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way; as you believed, be it done to you." And the boy was healed in that hour.
"And no one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch tears away from the garment, and a worse rent is made."
And the blind men came to Him, when He entered into the house; and He saith to them, "Believe ye that I am able to do this?" They say to Him, "Yes, Lord."
And ye will be hated by all, for My name's sake; but he who endures to the end, the same shall be saved.
["But this kind goes not out, except by prayer and fasting.]
And whosoever receives one such little child in My name, receives Me.
"Again, I say to you, that, if two of you shall agree on the earth concerning any matter which ye ask, it shall be done for them by My Father Who is in Heaven; for where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them."
for where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Then Peter, coming near, said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?" read more. Jesus saith to him, "I say not to you, 'till seven times,' but till seventy times seven.
Then came to Him the mother of the sons of Zebedee with her sons, worshiping and asking something of Him. And He said to her, "What do you wish?" She says to Him, "Command, that these my two sons may sit, one on Thy right hand, and one on Thy left, in Thy Kingdom." read more. But Jesus, answering, said, "Ye know not what ye are asking. Are ye able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?" They say to Him, "We are able." He saith to them, "My cup, indeed, ye shall drink; but to sit on My right hand, and on My left, is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father."
And pray, that your flight be not in winter, nor on a sabbath;
And from that time he was seeking an opportunity to deliver Him up.
And, going forward a little, He fell on His face, praying, and saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt."
And, leaving them, going away again, He prayed a third time, saying again the same words.
And, about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, "ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI?" that is, "My God! My God! Why didst Thou forsake Me?"
While He was yet speaking, they come from the synagogue-ruler's house, saying, "Your daughter died; why do you trouble the Teacher any further?"
And they were casting out many demons, and were anointing with oil many sick people, and were healing them.
And He said to her, "Suffer the children first to be satisfied; for it is not good to take the children's bread, and cast it to the little dogs."
and looking up to Heaven, He sighed, and saith to him, "Ephphatha," that is, "Be opened."
Jesus said to him, "'If thou canst!' All things are possible to him that believes."
And He said to them, "This kind can come out by nothing, except by prayer."
And He said to them, "This kind can come out by nothing, except by prayer."
Verily I say to you, whosoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says comes to pass; he shall have it.
And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
who devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers; these shall receive greater condemnation."
And going forward a little, He fell on the ground, and was praying, that, if it were possible, the hour might pass away from Him.
and all the multitude of the people were praying without at the hour of the incense-offering.
Now it came to pass, when all the people were immersed, that as Jesus also was immersed, and was praying, Heaven was opened,
And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into the mountain to pray; and He was spending the whole night in prayer to God.
And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into the mountain to pray; and He was spending the whole night in prayer to God.
And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into the mountain to pray; and He was spending the whole night in prayer to God. And when it became day, He called His disciples; and, having selected twelve from them, (whom He also called apostles):
And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you; go in peace."
And, taking the five loaves and the two fishes, looking up into Heaven, He blessed them, and broke, and kept giving to the disciples to set before the multitude.
And it came to pass, as He was praying, that the appearance of His countenance was altered, and His raiment became white and dazzling.
And it came to pass, as He was in a certain place praying, that, when He ceased, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."
And He said to them, "Who of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; forasmuch as a friend of mine came to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him;' read more. and he from within, answering, shall say, 'Trouble me not; already the door has been shut, and my children are with me in the bed; I cannot rise and give you.' I say to you, even if he will not, rising up, give to him because of his being his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he, rousing himself, will give him as many as he needs. And I say to you, ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: for every one who asks receives; and he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks it shall be opened. And of which of you that is a father shall his son ask bread, and he give him a stone? or a fish, and he, instead of a fish, give him a serpent? or if he shall ask an egg, will he give him a scorpion? If ye, then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"
So also ye, when ye do all the things that were commanded you, say, 'We are unprofitable servants; we have done what it was our duty to do.'
And He spake a parable to them, to the end that they ought always to pray, and not to faint; saying, "There was in a city a judge, who feared not God, nor regarded man. read more. And there was a widow in that city; and she kept coming to him, saying, 'Avenge me of my adversary.' And he would not for a time; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I fear not God, nor regard man; yet, because this widow occasions me trouble, I will avenge her, lest, by her persistent coming, she wear me out.'" And the Lord said, "Hear what the judge of unrighteousness says. And will not God avenge His elect, who are crying to Him day and night, and He is long suffering over them? I say to you, that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, will the Son of Man, when He cometh, find the faith on the earth?" And He spake also this parable to some who had trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised the rest: Two men went up into the temple to pray; one a Pharisee, and the other a tax-collector. The Pharisee, having taken his stand, was praying these things with himself: 'God, I thank Thee that I am not as the rest of men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax-collector!
The Pharisee, having taken his stand, was praying these things with himself: 'God, I thank Thee that I am not as the rest of men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax-collector! I fast twice on the Sabbath; I give a tenth of all that I acquire.' read more. "But the tax-collector, standing afar off, would not lift up even his eyes to heaven, but was smiting his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!'
"But the tax-collector, standing afar off, would not lift up even his eyes to heaven, but was smiting his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!' I say to you, this man went down justified to his house, rather than the other; because every one who exalts himself shall be humbled, but he who humbles himself shall be exalted."
but I prayed for you, that your faith fail not; and, when once you have turned again, establish your brethren."
And, going out, He went, according to His custom, to the mount of Olives; and the disciples also followed Him; and, having come to the place, He said to them, "Pray, that ye enter not into temptation." read more. And He was parted from them about a stone's throw; and, kneeling down, He prayed,
And He was parted from them about a stone's throw; and, kneeling down, He prayed, saying, "Father, if Thou art willing, remove this cup from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Thine, be done." read more. And there appeared to Him an angel from Heaven, strengthening Him. And, being in an agony, He was praying more earnestly. And His sweat became, as it were, large drops of blood falling down upon the ground! And, arising from prayer, and coming to the disciples, He found them sleeping for grief, and said to them, "Why are ye sleeping? Rising up, pray, that ye enter not into temptation."
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do!" And, dividing His garments among them, they cast lots.
And, crying with a loud voice, Jesus said, "Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit." And, having said this, He expired.
Jesus saith to her, "Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when ye will, neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what; we know what we worship, because salvation is from the Jews. read more. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for, indeed, the Father seeketh such to be His worshipers.
(yet there came boats from Tiberias near to the place where they ate the bread, the Lord having given thanks):
The man answered and said to them, "Why, in this is the wonder, that ye do not know whence He is, and He opened my eyes. We know that God heareth not sinners; but, if any one is a worshiper of God, and does His will, him He heareth. read more. From remotest antiquity, it was never heard that any one opened the eyes of one born blind! If this Man were not from God, He could do nothing."
So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up His eyes, and said, "Father, I thank Thee, because Thou didst hear Me. And I knew that Thou always hearest Me; but, because of the multitude standing around, I said it, that they may believe that Thou didst send Me."
And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, this will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, unless ye abide in Me.
Ye did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.
And in that day ye will ask nothing of Me: verily, verily, I say to you, if ye shall ask anything of the Father, He will give it you in My name. Hitherto ye asked nothing in My name; ask, and ye will receive, that your joy may be made full. read more. "These things have I spoken to you in proverbs. An hour is coming, when I will no more speak to you in proverbs, but will tell you plainly of the Father.
I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for those whom Thou hast given Me; because they are Thine.
And, when they entered, they went up into the upper-room, where they were abiding; both Peter and John, and James, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. These all were continuing with one accord in prayer, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
And, praying, they said, "Thou, Lord, Who knowest the hearts of all men, show which of these two Thou didst choose,
And they gave lots for them; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, for it is the third hour of the day;
Now Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer??he ninth hour.
Now Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer??he ninth hour.
But Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none; but what I have, this I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ, the Nazarene, walk."
and they were recognizing him, that this was he who was wont to sit for alms, at the Beautiful gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened to him.
and they were recognizing him, that this was he who was wont to sit for alms, at the Beautiful gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened to him.
And, being released, they went to their own friends, and reported all that the high priests and the elders said to them.
And, when they had prayed, the place in which they had assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and were speaking the word of God with boldness.
whom they set before the apostles; and, having prayed, they laid their hands on them.
And they were stoning Stephen, calling and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!" And, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to them!" And, having said this, he fell asleep.
And, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to them!" And, having said this, he fell asleep.
Now the apostles in Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John; who, indeed, having come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit; read more. for as yet He had fallen upon no one of them, but they had only been immersed in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Repent, therefore, of this your wickedness, and entreat the Lord, if, perhaps, the thought of your heart may be forgiven you;
And the eunuch, answering Philip, said, "I pray you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself, or of someone else?"
And Ananias answered, "Lord, I heard from many concerning this man, how many evils he did to Thy saints in Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the high priests to bind all those calling on Thy name."
and here he has authority from the high priests to bind all those calling on Thy name."
and here he has authority from the high priests to bind all those calling on Thy name." But the Lord said to him, "Go your way; because this man is to Me a chosen vessel to bear My name before nations, and kings, and the sons of Israel; read more. for I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake. And Ananias went away, and entered into the house; and, laying his hands on him, said, "Brother Saul, the Lord hath sent me??ven Jesus, Who appeared to you in the way in which you were coming, sent me, that you may receive sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit."
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
But Peter, having put them all forth, and bowing his knees, prayed; and, turning to the body, he said, "Tabitha, arise!" And she opened her eyes; and, seeing Peter, she sat up.
And he, looking intently on him, and becoming much afraid, said, "What is it, lord?" And he said to him, "Your prayers and alms went up for a memorial before God.
Now, on the morrow, as they were journeying, and coming near to the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour.
Now, on the morrow, as they were journeying, and coming near to the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour.
And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, until this hour, I was praying during the ninth hour in my house; and, behold, a man stood before me in bright apparel,
And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, until this hour, I was praying during the ninth hour in my house; and, behold, a man stood before me in bright apparel,
And Cornelius said, "Four days ago, until this hour, I was praying during the ninth hour in my house; and, behold, a man stood before me in bright apparel,
Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf.
Peter, therefore, was kept in the prison; but prayer was being earnestly made by the assembly to God in his behalf.
And, having considered it, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who is surnamed Mark; where many were gathered together and were praying.
And, having considered it, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who is surnamed Mark; where many were gathered together and were praying.
Then, having fasted and prayed, and having laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Then, having fasted and prayed, and having laid hands on them, they sent them away.
And, having appointed elders for them in every assembly; and, having prayed with fastings, they commended them to the Lord on Whom they had believed.
And, on the sabbath day, we went forth without the gate by a river, where we were supposing there was a place of prayer; and, sitting down, we were speaking to the women who had assembled together.
And it came to pass, as we were on our way to the place of prayer, that a certain damsel, having a spirit of divination, met us; who, indeed, was bringing to her masters much gain by sooth-saying.
who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. And about midnight Paul and Silas, while engaged in prayer, were singing praise to God; and the prisoners were listening to them.
And about midnight Paul and Silas, while engaged in prayer, were singing praise to God; and the prisoners were listening to them.
And, having passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews; and, according to Paul's custom, he went in to them; and for three sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures,
And Paul, abiding after this yet many days with the brethren, having taken leave of them, was sailing away to Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shaven his head in Cenchrea; for he had a vow.
and, Paul having laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they were speaking with tongues, and prophesying.
In all things I showed you that, thus laboring, ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
And, when it came to pass that we completed the days, going forth, we were resuming our journey; they all, with wives and children, accompanying us out of the city; and, kneeling down on the beach, having prayed, we bade one another farewell; and we embarked upon the ship, but they returned to their homes.
And it came to pass when I returned to Jerusalem, and while I was praying in the temple, that I came to be in a trance; and saw Him, saying to me, 'Make haste, and go forth quickly out of Jerusalem; because they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.' read more. And I said, 'Lord, they themselves understand that I was imprisoning and beating, throughout the synagogues, those believing on Thee; and, when the blood of Stephen, Thy witness, was poured forth, I myself also was standing by, and approving, and guarding the garments of those who slew him. And He said to me, 'Depart, because I will send you far hence to the gentiles.'
And, having said these things, and taken bread, he gave thanks to God in presence of them all; and, breaking it, he began to eat.
And it happened that the father of Publius was lying prostrate, afflicted with fever and dysentery; to whom Paul coming, and praying, laying his hands on him, healed him.
And it happened that the father of Publius was lying prostrate, afflicted with fever and dysentery; to whom Paul coming, and praying, laying his hands on him, healed him.
concerning His Son, Who was born of the seed of David, according to His flesh,
making request, if by any means now at length, I may be prospered by the will of God to come to you.
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For ye did not receive a spirit of bondage again unto fear; but ye received a spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, "Abba, Father." read more. The Spirit Himself testifieth with our spirit, that we are children of God;
And, in like manner, the Spirit also helpeth our weakness; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He Who searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
who is he that condemns? It is Christ Who died, yea, rather, That was raised from the dead, Who is at the right hand of God, Who also is making intercession for us.
(for I was wishing myself to be a curse from Christ) for my brethren, my kinsmen according to flesh;
Brethren, the desire, indeed, of my heart, and my supplication to God in their behalf, is that they may be saved.
rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; persevering in prayer;
Now the God of patience and of consolation grant you to be of the same mind one with another, according to Christ Jesus:
And I beseech you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
And I beseech you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
And I beseech you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
to the assembly of God which is at Corinth, sanctified in Christ Jesus, and called saints, with all, in every place, who call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ??heir Lord and ours:
For, if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
Else, if you are blessing with the spirit, how will he who fills the place of the unlearned say the "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he knows not what you say?
Else what will those do who are immersed for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are they even immersed for them?
Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
Now we pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we may appear approved, but that ye may do what is honorable, though we be rejected.
But, when the fulness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under law, that He might redeem those under law, that, we might receive the adoption of sons. read more. And, because ye are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba," Father. So that you are no longer a slave, but a son; and, if a son, also an heir through God.
On this account I also, having heard of the faith, on your part, in the Lord Jesus, and the love which ye show towards all the saints,
because through Him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.
in Whom we have boldness and access with confidence through the faith of Him.
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father,
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father,
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father,
with all prayer and supplication praying at every opportunity in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints;
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you??4 always, in every supplication of mine on behalf of you all, making supplication with joy??5 on account of your fellowship for the Gospel, from the first day until now;
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in full knowledge and all discernment;
Be anxious for nothing; but, in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God:
We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have toward all the saints,
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, cease not praying for you, and asking that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of His will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding,
strengthened with all power, according to the might of His glory, unto all patience and long-suffering with joy;
For I wish you to know how great a conflict I am having for you, and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in flesh;
For I wish you to know how great a conflict I am having for you, and those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen my face in flesh;
having blotted out the hand-writing in decrees against us, which was contrary to us, and He has taken it out of the midst, nailing it to the cross;
Persevere in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving; at the same time praying for us also, that God may open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ (because of which I have also become bound),
Epaphras, who is from among you, salutes you, a servant of Christ Jesus, always striving in your behalf in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God.
Salute the brethren in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the assembly in her house.
I exhort, therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;
I desire, therefore, that the men pray in every place, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and disputing;
But she who lives in pleasure, though living, has died.
(the Lord grant to him to find mercy from the Lord in that day); and in how many things he ministered at Ephesus, you know very well.
but in His own seasons manifested His word in a proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior;
One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always false, evil beasts, idle gluttons."
that aged men be temperate, grave, sober-minded, sound in faith, in love, in patience; that aged women, in like manner, be reverent in demeanor, not slanderers, not enslaved to much wine, teachers of that which is good;
sound speech not to be condemned; that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say concerning us.
I give thanks to my God always, making mention of you in my prayers,
But, at the same time, prepare also a lodging for me; for I hope that, through your prayers, I shall be given to you.
for we have not a High Priest, unable to sympathize with our infirmities, but One Who hath been tempted in all points like as we, apart from sin. Let us, therefore, come with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace for seasonable help.
Who, in the days of His flesh, having offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears to Him Who was able to save Him from death, and having been heard by reason of His godly fear,
Whence also He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, since He is ever living to intercede in their behalf.
Having, therefore, brethren, boldness for the entrance into the holy places by the blood of Jesus, which He dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is, His flesh; read more. and, having a Great Priest over the house of God; let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our body washed with pure water,
let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our body washed with pure water,
but let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, wind-driven and tossed. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; read more. a double-souled man, unstable in all his ways.
Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may spend it on your pleasures.
Take, brethren, as an example of suffering and of patience, the prophets, who spake in the name of the Lord.
Is anyone among you afflicted? let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? let him call for the elders of the assembly; and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord;
Is anyone among you sick? let him call for the elders of the assembly; and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and, if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him.
and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and, if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him.
and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and, if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him.
and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and, if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him. Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much.
Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much.
Confess, therefore, your sins one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. A righteous man's inwrought supplication avails much. Elijah was a man of like nature with us; and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it rained not on the earth for three years and six months; read more. and again he prayed, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth its fruit.
and whatsoever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments, and do the things that are pleasing before Him.
But do ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,
But do ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,
And, when He took the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having, each, a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
And, when He took the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having, each, a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
And, when He opened the fifth seal, I saw, underneath the altar, the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they were holding. And they cried with a great voice, saying, "How long, O Master, the Holy, and the True, dost Thou not judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell upon the earth?"
And another angel came, and stood over the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given to him much incense, that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God out of the hand of the angel.
And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God out of the hand of the angel.
"And the Spirit and the bride say, 'Come'; and let him that hears say, 'Come'; and let him that thirsts say, 'Come'; he that will let him take the water of life freely.
He Who testifieth these things saith, "Yea; I come quickly." Amen; come, Lord Jesus!
Morish
This has been described as 'the intercourse of a dependent one with God.' It may take the form of communion in one brought nigh, or it may be the making requests for oneself or for others. There are twelve different words used for prayer in the O.T., and eight in the N.T., with various shades of meaning, as there are in English: 'asking, begging, beseeching,' etc. In the synoptic Gospels the word used in connection with Christ is that most commonly employed for "praying," but in John's gospel the word is that generally rendered, 'ask' or, 'demand.' The change is explained by the different aspect in which the Lord is presented in John.
God hears and encourages prayer. A cry to God is the mark of a soul truly turning to Him: "Behold, he prayeth," was said of Saul of Tarsus. Ac 9:11. To the saints it is said, "Pray without ceasing;" "ask and ye shall receive." "If we ask anything according to his will he heareth us, and . . . . we know that we have the petitions." "All things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer believing ye shall receive." "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you." The disciples as left here, representative of Christ and charged with His interests, were to ask in His name; and the same is true in principle as regards believers now. Mr 11:24; Joh 14:13; 15:16; 16:23,26; Jas 1:5-7; 1Jo 5:14-15. Christians are exhorted to make known all their petitions, or requests, to God, and having done so, the peace of God shall keep their hearts and minds. Php 4:6-7. This is their wondrous privilege: they have addressed God, and in peace they leave it with Him to grant their petitions or not.
The above passages demonstrate that to receive what is prayed for, requests must be in faith, they must be according to the light of God's will, and hence made in the name of the Lord Jesus. While prayer is always to God, it is suggested that requests would naturally be made to the Father in respect of all that tends to the promotion of Christ in believers, as well as in things referring to their discipline in the pathway here. On the other hand prayer would be made to the Lord in relation to that over which He is set as administrator, such as the service of the gospel, the saints, the house of God, etc.
The attitudes in prayer which are recorded are: 'standing,' 1Sa 1:26; '/Mark/11/25/type/worrell'>Mr 11:25; 'kneeling,' Da 6:10; Lu 22:41; and 'falling down,' De 9:25; Jos 7:6.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
Therefore, I say to you, all things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them, and ye shall have them. And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
And He was parted from them about a stone's throw; and, kneeling down, He prayed,
And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, this will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Ye did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.
And in that day ye will ask nothing of Me: verily, verily, I say to you, if ye shall ask anything of the Father, He will give it you in My name.
In that day ye shall ask in My name: and I say not to you, that I will ask the Father for you;
And the Lord said to him, "Arise, go to the street that is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one named Saul of Tarsus; for, behold, he is praying;
Be anxious for nothing; but, in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
But, if any of you is lacking in wisdom, let him ask from God, Who giveth to all liberally, and upbraideth not; and it will be given him; but let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, wind-driven and tossed. read more. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
Smith
Prayer.
The object of this article will be to touch briefly on --
1. The doctrine of Scripture as to the nature and efficacy of prayer;
2. Its directions as to time, place and manner of prayer;
3. Its types and examples of prayer.
1. Scripture does not give any theoretical explanation of the mystery which attaches to prayer. The difficulty of understanding real efficacy arises chiefly from two sources: from the belief that man lives under general laws, which in all cases must be fulfilled unalterably; and the opposing belief that he is master of his own destiny, and need pray for no external blessing. Now, Scripture, while, by the doctrine of spiritual influence it entirely disposes of the latter difficulty, does not so entirely solve that part of the mystery which depends on the nature of God. It places it clearly before us, and emphasizes most strongly those doctrines on which the difficulty turns. Yet while this is so, on the other hand the instinct of prayer is solemnly sanctioned and enforced on every page. Not only is its subjective effect asserted, but its real objective efficacy, as a means appointed by God for obtaining blessing, is both implied and expressed in the plainest terms. Thus, as usual in the case of such mysteries, the two apparently opposite truths are emphasized, because they are needful: to man's conception of his relation to God; their reconcilement is not, perhaps cannot be, fully revealed. For, in fact, it is involved in that inscrutable mystery which attends on the conception of any free action of man as necessary for the working out of the general laws of God's unchangeable will. At the same time it is clearly implied that such a reconcilement exists, and that all the apparently isolated and independent exertions of man's spirit in prayer are in some way perfectly subordinated to the one supreme will of God, so as to form a part of his scheme of providence. It is also implied that the key to the mystery lies in the fact of man's spiritual unity with God in Christ, and of the consequent gift of the Holy Spirit. So also is it said of the spiritual influence of the Holy Ghost on each individual mind that while "we know not what to pray for, "the indwelling" Spirit makes intercession for the saints, according to the will of God."
Here, as probably in still other cases, the action of the Holy Spirit on the soul is to free agents what the laws of nature are to things inanimate, and is the power which harmonizes free individual action with the universal will of God.
2. There are no directions as to prayer given in the Mosaic law: the duty is rather taken for granted, as an adjunct to sacrifice, than enforced or elaborated. It is hardly conceivable that, even from the beginning public prayer did not follow every public sacrifice. Such a practice is alluded to in
Lu 1:10
as common; and in one instance, at the offering of the first-fruits, it was ordained in a striking form.
De 26:12-15
In later times it certainly grew into a regular service both in the temple and in the synagogue. But, besides this public prayer, it was the custom of all at Jerusalem to go up to the temple, at regular hours if possible, for private prayer, see
Lu 18:10; Ac 3:1
and those who were absent were wont to "open their windows toward Jerusalem," and pray "toward" the place of God's presence.
1Ki 8:46-49; Ps 5:7; 28:2; 138:2; Da 6:10
The regular hours of prayer seem to have been three (see)
the evening, that is the ninth hour
the hour of the evening sacrifice,
the "morning," that is, the third hour
that of the morning sacrifice; and the sixth hour, or "noonday." Grace before meat would seem to have been a common practice. See
The posture of prayer among the Jews seems to have been most often standing,
1Sa 1:26; Mt 6:5; Mr 11:25; Lu 18:11
unless the prayer were offered with especial solemnity and humiliation, which was naturally expressed by kneeling,
comp. 2Chr 6:13; Ezra 9:5; Psal 95:8; Dani 6:10 or prostration.
3. The only form of prayer given for perpetual use in the Old Testament is the one in
De 26:5-15
connected with the offering of tithes and first-fruits, and containing in simple form the important elements of prayer, acknowledgment of God's mercy, self-dedication and prayer for future blessing. To this may perhaps be added the threefold blessing of
couched as it is in a precatory form, and the short prayer of Moses,
at the moving and resting of the cloud the former of which was the germ of the 68th Psalm. But of the prayers recorded in the Old Testament the two most remarkable are those of Solomon at the dedication of the temple,
and of Joshua the high priest, and his colleagues, after the captivity.
It appears from the question of the disciples in
Lu 11:1
and from Jewish tradition, that the chief teachers of the day gave special forms of prayer to their disciples as the badge of their discipleship and the best fruits of their learning. All Christian prayer is, of course, based on the Lord's Prayer; but its spirit is also guided by that of his prayer in Gethsemane and of the prayer recorded by St. John,
Joh 17:1
... the beginning of Christ's great work of intercession. The influence of these prayers is more distinctly traced in the prayers contained in the epistles, see
Ro 16:25-27; Eph 3:14-21; Phm 1:3-11; Col 1:9-15; Heb 13:20-21; 1Pe 5:10-11
etc., than in those recorded in the Acts. The public prayer probably in the first instance took much of its form and style from the prayers of the synagogues. In the record on prayer accepted and granted by God, we observe, as always, a special adaptation to the period of his dispensation to which they belong. In the patriarchal period, they have the simple and childlike tone of domestic application for the ordinary and apparently trivial incidents of domestic life. In the Mosaic period they assume a more solemn tone and a national bearing, chiefly that of direct intercession for the chosen people. More rarely are they for individuals. A special class are those which precede and refer to the exercise of miraculous power. In the New Testament they have a more directly spiritual hearing. It would seem the intention of Holy Scripture to encourage all prayer more especially intercession, in all relations and for all righteous objects.
See Verses Found in Dictionary
"And, when ye pray, ye shall not be as the hypocrites; for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: verily I say to you, they have their reward.
He took the seven loaves and the fishes; giving thanks, He broke, and was giving to the disciples; and the disciples to the multitudes.
And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also Who is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
and all the multitude of the people were praying without at the hour of the incense-offering.
And it came to pass, as He was in a certain place praying, that, when He ceased, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."
The Pharisee, having taken his stand, was praying these things with himself: 'God, I thank Thee that I am not as the rest of men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax-collector!
Jesus spake these things; and, lifting up His eyes to Heaven, said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify Thy Son, that the Son may glorify Thee;
Now Peter and John were going up into the temple at the hour of prayer??he ninth hour.
And, having said these things, and taken bread, he gave thanks to God in presence of them all; and, breaking it, he began to eat.
And, in like manner, the Spirit also helpeth our weakness; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He Who searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
For this cause I bow my knees to the Father, from Whom every family in Heaven and on earth is named, read more. that He may grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit as to the inward man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that ye, having been rooted and grounded in love, may be strong to apprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth, and length, and height, and depth, and to know the knowledge-surpassing love of Christ, that ye may be filled unto all the fulness of God. Now to Him Who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that is working in us, to Him be the glory in the assembly, and in Christ Jesus, unto all generations of the age of the ages. Amen.
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, cease not praying for you, and asking that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of His will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, to walk worthily of the Lord to all pleasing, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God; read more. strengthened with all power, according to the might of His glory, unto all patience and long-suffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father, Who made us meet for the portion of the inheritance of the saints in light; Who delivered us out of the dominion of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love; in Whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins; Who is the image of the invisible God, Primal Source of all creation;
grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, read more. hearing of your love and the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints; that the fellowship of your faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing in you, for Christ. For I had much joy and consolation on account of your love, because the tender affections of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother. Wherefore, though having much boldness in Christ to enjoin upon you that which is becoming, yet for love's sake I rather exhort, being such a one as Paul an aged man, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus: I beseech you for my child, whom I begat in my bonds, Onesimus, who at one time was unprofitable to you, but now profitable to you and to me;
Now the God of peace, Who brought up from the dead the Great Shepherd of the sheep, in virtue of the blood of an eternal covenant, even our Lord Jesus, make you perfect in every good thing to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to Whom be the glory forever. Amen.
Watsons
PRAYER has been well defined, the offering up of our desires unto God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name or through the mediation of Jesus Christ, by the help of the Holy Spirit, with a confession of our sins, and a thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.
1. Prayer is in itself a becoming acknowledgment of the all-sufficiency of God, and of our dependence upon him. It is his appointed means for the obtaining of both temporal and spiritual blessings. He could bless his creatures in another way: but he will be inquired of, to do for them those things of which they stand in need, Eze 36:37. It is the act of an indigent creature, seeking relief from the fountain of mercy. A sense of want excites desire, and desire is the very essence of prayer. "One thing have I desired of the Lord," says David; "that will I seek after." Prayer without desire is like an altar without a sacrifice, or without the fire from heaven to consume it. When all our wants are supplied, prayer will be converted into praise; till then Christians must live by prayer, and dwell at the mercy seat. God alone is able to hear and to supply their every want. The revelation which he has given of his goodness lays a foundation for our asking with confidence the blessings we need, and his ability encourages us to hope for their bestowment. "O thou that hearest prayer; unto thee shall all flesh come," Ps 65:2.
2. Prayer is a spiritual exercise, and can only be performed acceptably by the assistance of the Holy Spirit, Ro 8:26. "The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is his delight." The Holy Spirit is the great agent in the world of grace, and without his special influence there is no acceptable prayer. Hence he is called the Spirit of grace and of supplication: for he it is that enables us to draw nigh unto God, filling our mouth with arguments, and teaching us to order our cause before him, Zec 12:10.
3. All acceptable prayer must be offered in faith, or a believing frame of mind. "If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering
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And, in like manner, the Spirit also helpeth our weakness; for we know not what to pray for as we ought; but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And, apart from faith, it is impossible to please Him; for he that comes to God must believe that He is, and that He becomes a rewarder to those who seek after Him.
But, if any of you is lacking in wisdom, let him ask from God, Who giveth to all liberally, and upbraideth not; and it will be given him; but let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, wind-driven and tossed. read more. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
And this is the confidence which we have toward Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us; and, if we know that He heareth us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we asked of Him.