Answers to common questions about prayer

Why pray? What about? How often? Will God listen?

Why Pray?

Christians are so blessed to have a relationship with God through the blood of Jesus Christ.

But the word 'relationship' implies that it is two-way deal.

The main way God speaks to us is through the Bible, his word. We can talk to God in prayer. It is also our way of humbling ourselves, recognising that we can’t do anything on our own.

How should I pray & how often?

So do you need to be in any particular place or say any special words when praying?

Well no. It is our conversation with our Father. So because of that you can pray anywhere, anytime.

However remember that you are speaking to the Lord of the universe who created the world, so come to him with reverence and respect. Because you are free to do it whenever you like, make praying a regular habit.

What should I pray about?

There are many things for us to be praying about.

We ought to be praying for our world, those in need and those who don’t know Christ.

It is good to pray for your local community, leaders and your church.

Pray for your family and friends, Christian and non-Christian.

Finally you can pray for yourself. Not for a Ferrari or mansion but for spiritual and physical health. Look at each of Paul’s letters and what he is praying for. One of my favourites is Philippians 1:9 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.”

Will my prayers work?

God hears all our prayers.

But we need to remember he knows best and so he may answer our prayers with a yes, no or wait.

God’s timing is best so don’t always expect immediate results. That said we can read that praying really works. “The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective” (James 5:16).

God is loving, merciful and powerful so can trust him with all things. He will do big things and carry all our burdens. But we need to pray to him.