PRAYER

The Pharisees loved to pray, but their prayers were not acceptable to God. Their long prayers,
uttered to be heard and praised by men, received no reward from the Heavenly Father. Empty
repetitions in prayer do not reach the ears of God--words without thought may please men, but
they are a mockery to God. “We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a
worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth” (John 9:31). There must be proof that we
love God before we can pray acceptably (1 John 3:18). Evidence that we truly love God is
shown when we believe in Jesus and obey His commandments (1 John 2:1-5; 5:3; John 14:15).
To know Christ and to keep His commandments is not grievous. This involves believing, turn-
ing from sin, confessing faith in Christ and being born again by baptism into God’s family (John
3:3-5).
Although sinners are not saved through prayer from their alien sins, they must come in a
prayerful, penitent attitude as did Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:11), when they inquire what they must
do to be saved (Acts 2:37-38). After obeying Jesus’ commandments for salvation (Mark 16:16),
then prayer is a daily essential in the personal life of every Christian.
Thank God for everything. God will grant wisdom to those who ask. We gain knowledge of
God’s will through a study of the Scriptures, but the ability to discreetly use that knowledge
(called wisdom) comes through prayer (James 1:5). Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray
for them (Matt. 5:44). Do you do that?
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: We should never confuse the will of the majority with the
will of God.
Have a great week!
Love ya,
Jesse