Series: Order [#3]
HOW TO PRAY
1 Timothy 2:1-8
Introduction:
In these verses Paul is telling Timothy the importance of prayer and its purpose. Let’s look at the areas of prayer.
1 Timothy 2:1-8 (NIV)
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men--the testimony given in its proper time. And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle--I am telling the truth, I am not lying--and a teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles. I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.”
Prayer of…
1. Praise.
Praise is glorifying God for Whom and What He is and for how this affects you. This is the most appropriate way to enter into His presence. Praise God for His goodness, patience, love, wisdom, greatness, knowledge, holiness, power, glory, grace, and righteousness.
Prayer of…
2. Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is thanking God for what He has done and for what He is going to do. Each day thank God for material possessions, physical blessings, spiritual blessings, people, and Jesus.
Prayer of…
3. Confession.
Confession is agreeing with God about sin: it is your response to His holiness. Take these steps in your time of confession and repentance: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal every sin. Confess each sin individually to the Lord. Seek cleansing, healing, renewing and deliverance from the source of the sins. Make whatever restitution God leads you to make for the wrong done. Thank God for faith for His forgiveness and go on your way rejoicing.
Prayer of…
4. Intercession.
Intercession is praying for others. Intercession is praying specific blessings for specific people: A member of the family, a missionary, your pastor, your Sunday School teacher, a Christian friend, an unsaved friend, a political leader, or others who are on your heart.
Pray as specifically as you know how, and as the Holy Spirit leads. Then, faithfully record how God answers your prayers. Your faith will deepen and grow as you experience God working in the lives of others.
Prayer of…
5. Petition.
Petition is asking for yourself. It is your response to the power and wisdom of God, your Heavenly Father. As children, we don’t hesitate to tell our parents what we want or need. Take God at his Word as your Father with this same childlike faith. He always answers; and even though His answer might be “No,” be assured that it is for your best. Ask God for a vision and for a victory.
Conclusion:
I want to close with 1 last thing you must do- Pause for listening. Pause a few minutes. Let your heart be still. Listen to see if God wants to speak to you. It is important- After you have asked God a question or are seeking His guidance- To stop and listen so He can speak. When you believe God has spoken, write it down to keep from forgetting.
Christians, you have the ability to communicate with your Heavenly Father. Are you doing that?
