Sunday, August 24, 2014

Five Reasons to Pray, Part 2

(See below for Reasons #1 & 2)
Reason #3 Prayer shows God how desperately we want something.
“The effectual fervent (desperate) prayer of a righteous person avails much” (James 5:16). When we pray out of desperation we touch God’s heart and catch His ear. Our prayers show Him how badly we want something

As Jesus passed through Jericho, two blind men sitting by the road cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us!” (Matt. 20:30). Even though a huge crowd surrounded Him, Jesus stopped when He heard their cries for help and healed them. On another occasion, a woman who had a hemorrhage for 12 years touched the hem of His garment. While a large crowd was touching Him, Jesus felt power leave Him and she was healed (Mark 5:24-34). What was different about her touch? She was desperate for a miracle.

Reason #4  Prayer is the way we release our burdens to God.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6-7).

Sheep are not designed to carry burdens. You’ve heard of “pack mules” but you’ve never hear of “pack sheep.” When we pray correctly, we transfer our problems into the Father’s hands. If you are still burdened down after you have prayed, you never let go of your problems!

Reason #5  When we pray, God intervenes in other people’s lives and changes them.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus told us to “pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28)? Let’s think about that. He told us to pray for our enemies because our prayer releases the Holy Spirit to convict them of their sins and bring them to repentance. Remember, some things will not happen unless we pray. We don’t typically like to pray for those who mistreat us, but if we will pray for the Holy Spirit to convict them we might see some surprising results. www.kentcrockett.blogspot.com   www.makinglifecount.net
CLICK HERE to read the ENTIRE SERMON on “Five Purposes of Prayer” which includes more teaching, stories and illustrations.

NEW PRINTED SERMON: The 5 Purposes of Prayer

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