A. INTRODUCTION – WHY ASK?
1. Because we are told. “Keep on asking and you will receive what you ask” (Matthew 7:7, NLT).
2. Because it works. “Elijah . . . prayed earnestly that no rain . . . none fell” (James 5:17, NLT).
3. Because we need. “Ye have not because ye ask not” (James 4:2).
4. Because of relationship. “Little children . . . knows God listens to them” (1 John 4:4-5).
B. THE RULES OF ASKING: MAKING YOUR REQUEST EFFECTIVE BY:
1. His authority. “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do” (John 14:13).
2. Relationship with the Father. “Ask the Father directly . . . use My name” (John 16:23, NLT).
3. Expectantly. “Ask in faith, nothing wavering” (James 1:6).
4. Sincerity. “Anyone who wants to come to Him must believe that God exists” (Hebrews 11:6, NLT).
5. Continually. “Keep on asking . . .” (Matthew 7:7, NLT).
6. His will. “This is confidence . . . if we ask accordingly to His will (1 John 5:14).
7. Bible. “If you abide in Me and My words abide in you . . . ask” (John 15:7).
8. Obedience. “We will receive from Him whatever we ask because we obey Him” (1 John 3:22, NLT).
C. HOW TO APPLY THE RULES OF PRAYER
1. Begin with the Lord’s Prayer.
2. Write out prayer list.
3. Separate your request: importance and imperative, i.e., daily and immediate.
4. Write your responses on your prayer list.
5. Note items of praise.
6. Write and claim prayer promises.
7. Include biggest request and not overlook small request.
If you have never really accepted Jesus as your personal Savior, would you do it right now? Do not delay or put it off. If you would like to receive Christ by faith, pray this simple prayer in your heart:
Dear Lord, I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died for my sins on the cross, and rose again the third day. I repent of my sins. By faith I receive the Lord Jesus as my Savior. You promised to save me, and I believe You, because You are God and cannot lie. I believe right now that the Lord Jesus is my personal Savior, and that all my sins are forgiven through His precious blood. I thank You, dear Lord, for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you prayed that prayer, God heard you and saved you. I personally want to welcome you to the family of God and rejoice with you.
Dr. Towns’ email is eltowns@liberty.edu.
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