A. INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS PRAYER?
Prayer: An avenue for having fellowship with God. It is a channel of communicating and pouring our hearts to our heavenly father.
The Lord Jesus taught us how to pray in Matthew 6:9
In praying, therefore, two things may hinder our prayer; sin and praying against the will of God.
Isaiah 59:1-4, Psalm 66:18, James 4:3
Biblical Examples of Unanswered Prayers
A. 2 Cor 12:7-12 Paul’s plea to God.
B. Mark 14:32-50 Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane.
C. John 11:1-4 Lazarus’ sister request for Jesus to come.
A Loving God is in Control
Sometimes, God will say No to our prayers. But;
• God’s No is not rejection but redirection
• God’s No is not a punishment, it is preparation
• God’s No will sometimes bring greater glory to God
• God’s No opens an adventure with God. 1 Kings 19; Elijah wanted to die but God opened up a new adventure.
God is more interested in our character than our comfort.
God gave Paul special grace to carry on.
Prayer Point
Father, give me grace to carry on
