Reasons for prayer
This may seem like a really simple question, but why do we pray? And what are we supposed to pray for? I find prayer comforting because it reminds of all God's promises, but I can be reminded of God's truth without speaking to him. I also know that God tells us to cast all our cares on him and to thank and praise him, but is that really the only reason we pray? Because God tells us to? Why is prayer so important and what power does it hold?
We pray because God invites and directs us to pray to him (Matthew 7:7; Luke 18:1; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). We pray because God promises that he will hear and answer our prayers (Psalm 50:15; 91:15; John 15:7). We pray because God tells us that prayer is “powerful and effective” (James 5:16). James chapter five illustrates how God acted on Elijah’s prayers. James 4:2 explains that God can manage his blessings in our lives to encourage us to pray to him.
When it comes to the content of our prayers, 1 Timothy 2:1-2 provides guidance: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
As God speaks to us through his word, so prayer provides God’s children with the opportunity and privilege of speaking to God. Prayer rounds out the two-way conversation between God and people.