We have been studying pray recently at the Loop 287 Church of Christ, and it has been extremely uplifting. Other than studying God’s word, I don’t believe there’s a better activity in which one can engage. I thought it might be good to quickly share with you three types of prayer that we should imitate.
First, there is faithful prayer. Samuel was not going to sin against the Lord by failing to pray for others (1 Samuel 12:23). He would faithfully lift them up before the “throne of grace” (Ephesians 6:18).
Second, there is forceful prayer. When Elijah prayed, mighty deeds occurred (1 Kings 17:17-24; 18:36-46; James 5:17-18)! Elijah’s prayers were prayers of faith, even though he was weak at times like us (Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14-15). Our prayers will not be answered unless we “ask in faith” (James 1:6).
Third, there is fruitful prayer. Job was delivered from his afflictions when he prayed for his friends (Job 42:10). Prayers should be made for all men (1 Timothy 2:1-4), and Job was magnanimous enough to pray for those who accused him of evil.
If you are a faithful child of God, He will hear your prayer (1 Peter 3:12; 1 John 3:22). Although we may not receive the answer we hoped for, we will have assurance that our God loves us and wishes to richly bless us.
Kyle Campbell