Prayer

by Luciano Cozzi

Although prayer may be defined in several ways, its simplest meaning is that of communication or dialogue with God. As someone once said, prayer is our direct line to God. We never get a busy signal, never a missed call, nor a bad connection, and it’s always free of charge.

Biblically, the word “prayer” is our English translation of several different terms:

Old Testament

Tefillah Supplication to God in general, or intercession (supplication for another).

Palal To judge, to mediate, with the general sense of prayer.

Rib To strive, to contend as to before a judge, or to plead a cause.

Athar To burn incense, thence to pray to God.

Halal To caress, to stroke one’s face in order to please, or to entreat one’s favor.

Lahash To whisper, to pray in a low voice, as for someone who is so aware of his sinfulness, that he/she does not dare to speak to God aloud.

New Testament

Deesis Request for particular benefits (emphasis on need).

Proseuche Prayer in general, not restricted in its contents (emphasis on devotion).

Enteuxis Confidence in our access to God (emphasis on childlike confidence).

Euche In the sense of a vow.

Aitema Petition or request.

From the very beginning, since the days of creation, God has desired for us to communicate with and relate to Him. His purpose and intent is to establish an eternal relationship with us and prayer (our communication with Him) is a very important starting point. In prayer we acknowledge our need for God, we express our appreciation for Him, and carry to Him our joys and our concerns.

So, let’s learn what the Bible teaches us about this important subject.

Read Isaiah 55:6; Matthew 7:7 and Philippians 4:6.

What is one reason for us to communicate to God? Asking, seeking and knocking is part of our communication with God. What does Matthew 7:7 tell you about your need for God? What are we instructed to do when we feel anxious? Is thanksgiving or praising God also a part of our prayer?

Read Psalm 5:2.

Who did the psalmist say he would pray to?

Read Acts 7:59.

As Stephen was being stoned, who did he pray to?

Now, read John 14:13-14 and 16:23-24.

Through whom (or in whose name) should we pray to God?

Scripture is full of testimonies of answered prayers that remind us that God hears us and answers us, although not always in the way we would expect. It is very interesting, as we learn about prayer, to see the variety of ways in which it is described in Scripture. Next to each of the following passages, write down how prayer is described:

Example: Ephesians 3:4 = Bowing of knees.

Psalm 5:3

Psalm 21:1

Lamentations 3:41

Psalm 62:8

1 Samuel 1:15

Psalm 116:4

Psalm 34:6

Hebrews 10:22

2 Chronicles 32:20

Exodus 32:11

Job 8:5

Jeremiah 36:7

Read Romans 8:26 and 2 Chronicles 30:27.

When we pray, what is the role of the Holy Spirit? And where do our prayers ascend?

Prayer is much more than a psychological exercise. It is true, effective communication with God, and it does make a difference! (James 5:16)

When, we may ask should we pray? Once again, let’s take a birds eye view of what Scripture says about when and how prayer should be offered to God:

Example: James 5:13 - In time of suffering.

Ephesians 6:18

James 1:6

Matthew 6:12

Psalm 119:145

Psalm 42:4

1 Corinthians 14:15

1 John 5:14

Luke 22:42

Psalm 17:1

Ecclesiastes 5:2

1 Timothy 2:8

Luke 18:1-7

Psalm 145:18

Hebrews 4:16

2 Chronicles 7:14; 33:12

Now, please, read Psalm 155:1-2 and 143:1.

What should our desire be as we pray? Again, prayer is not just a spiritual exercise for ourselves, but it is a real, direct communication with God, and we should have a sincere desire to communicate with Him.

Effective prayer is not a means for coercing God to give us what we want, or to meet our needs. Prayer should be offered with an attitude of repentance (Jeremiah 36:7) and with confession (Daniel 9:4-11 and Matthew 6:12). At times it can be with tears (Jeremiah 31:9) or with fasting (Acts 13:3). It may include praises to God (Psalm 66:17) and thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2).

Often people ask themselves what posture is more appropriate in prayer. Once again, let’s allow Scripture to answer. What postures are indicated in the following passages?

Mark 11:25

Psalm 95:6

Luke 22:41

Numbers 16:22

Matthew 26:39

Isahiah 1:15

1 Timothy 2:8

Prayer does not depend on our position or posture, but rather on the disposition of our heart. Ultimately, it depends on the promises of God and His covenant with us. We can rest reassured that our God is a loving Father who listens to us and cares for us. May His faithfulness, mercy and grace be with you as you draw closer to Him in prayer.