“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray’” (Luke 11:1, NIV).
The Heart of the Christian Life
Prayer is essential and vital.
- “Every morning take time to begin your work with prayer. Do not think this wasted time; it is time that will live through eternal ages. By this means success and spiritual victory will be brought in” (*Testimonies for the Church*, vol. 7, p. 194).
The disciples observed Jesus’ unique prayer life. Although they were faithful and dedicated, they realized their prayers lacked the power and depth of Jesus’ communion with God. Thus, they asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.”
Jesus emphasized that spiritual success is achieved through prayer and fasting, not human effort alone. As Paul noted, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in prayer (Romans 8:26).
- “Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power... Neglect the exercise of prayer... and you lose your hold on God” (Prayer, pp. 12, 13).
- Jesus often spent entire nights in prayer, finding joy and comfort in communion with His Father (*Steps to Christ*, pp. 93, 94).
Jesus made prayer His priority, often rising early to pray in solitude (Mark 1:35, NKJV). He calls us to follow His example, approaching prayer as a heartfelt conversation rather than a routine or repeated mantra.
Prayer and Study
Prayer and the study of God’s Word are inseparable. Through prayer, we speak to God; through Scripture, God speaks to us. Jesus’ prayer life was an example of this balance, and He invites us to live in the same way.
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Prayer Time (30–45 Minutes)
Spend time in united prayer, using short conversational prayers (1–3 sentences).
Suggested themes include:
1. Luke 11:1
- “Jesus was praying in a certain place”*: Ask God to help you prioritize prayer and establish consistent habits.
- “Lord, teach us to pray”: Request God’s guidance to model prayers and life after Jesus.
2. Other Suggestions
- Thanks and Praise: Celebrate blessings and God’s goodness.
- Confession: Take time for private confession and gratitude for forgiveness.
- Guidance: Seek wisdom for challenges and decisions.
- Church and Local Needs: Pray for both regional and local issues.
- Listening: Pause to hear God’s voice and respond in praise.
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