Seems two things are needed for effective prayer: faith in God, to  whom we pray and a humble posture. The idea of prayer is that of an individual knowing they need help. They know that the help comes from a source outside of themselves. It is communication with God: seeking God, asking him for what is needed and waiting for his answer. By the way, the answer will always come from his word: it will be consistent with his ways. Prayer is essential to a believer’s walk with God. The Bible declares that men should always pray. Paul wrote to the Thessalonian church: pray without ceasing. (Read I Thessalonians 5:17). We are the modern-day church. James wrote that we should pray in all situations – in good, bad and uncertain times. For the sick. For God’s Provisions (Read James 5: 13-18). We can expect an answer when we believe. Hebrews 11 defines faith: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen. For by it elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things that do appear. (Verses 1-3). In that same scripture it says: But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Verse 6) You see, we have to believe to please him and we have to believe to get anything from him. The best person to model when it comes to prayer is Jesus. Scripture reveals that Jesus often removed himself from the crowd, from his disciples, to pray to God, the Father. One time after Jesus prayed, a disciple asked him to “teach us to pray.” Jesus did. (Read Luke 11: 1-4) Be encouraged! Join OCN in focusing on prayer this first quarter of 2015.

© Orlando Community News, 2015