prayer
“An offering up of our desires unto God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.”1
“An offering up of our desires unto God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.”1
- From scripture:
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior … . (1 Timothy 2:1-3 ESV)
- From the Heidelberg Catechism:
Question 116: Why is prayer necessary for Christians?
Answer: Because prayer is the most important part of the thankfulness which God requires of us. Moreover, God will give His grace and the Holy Spirit only to those who constantly and with heartfelt longing ask Him for these gifts and thank Him for them.
Question 117: What belongs to a prayer which pleases God and is heard by Him?
Answer: First, we must from the heart call upon the one true God only, who has revealed Himself in His Word, for all that He has commanded us to pray.[1] Second, we must thoroughly know our need and misery, so that we may humble ourselves before God.[2] Third, we must rest on this firm foundation that, although we do not deserve it, God will certainly hear our prayer for the sake of Christ our Lord, as He has promised us in His Word.
Learn more:
- Easton Bible Dictionary: Prayer
- R. C. Sproul: The Place of Prayer
- Derek Thomas: God-Centered Prayer
- George Grant: Normal Prayer
- R. C. Sproul: Prayer: A Discourse with God
Related terms:
1Westminster Shorter Catechism, Question 98.
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