Guardian

Prayer (II)

Memory Verse: “…fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” -James 5:17b.

Bible Passage: 1Kings 17:1-7

Introduction

MAN is a spirit that has a soul and lives in a body. All three need nutrients. Prayer is to the spirit what food is to the body. A prayer-lacking Christian will be spiritually malnourished.

Outlines

Power Of Prayer

“...And Elisha said... as the Lord God of Israel lives before who I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years... but according to my word” -1Kg. 17:1 “...the word of the Lord came to Elijah in the third year, saying, ‘show yourself to Ahab’” -1Kg. 18:1. “...And there was a great rain...” -1Kg. 18:45. Elijah brought famine and rain by the power of prayer with the same precision as we turn on and off a tap. Elijah was human -Jm. 5:17-18. Elijah’s spirit was fully nourished and charged. He was never wanting in the place of prayer.

Discipline Of Prayer

You cannot store up three months worth of prayer. It must be frequent, regular, a couple of times daily -Dan. 6:10. It could be corporate or personal and quiet -Acts10:2; 4:23-3, Mk. 1:35. Each has its place and purpose and one cannot be sacrificed for the other. Having a prayer partner helps -Acts 3:1.

When Should You Pray?

You should pray first thing in the morning and last thing at night, and in between -Ps. 55:17. Prayer should not be treated like emergency services, to be deployed only when there is danger. A robust prayer life guarantees the establishment of your decrees -Job 22:28.

Conclusion:

It’s easy to neglect prayer as the cares of life distort our priorities and urge postponement. It is dangerous to give in. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His court with praise today -Ps. 100:4. God is waiting for you.