Christian Photographers Community

Why Pray?

In Matthew 6:8, the Lord said, "Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him."

So why would God want you to talk to Him about all your needs when He already knows what they are?

The fact is that praying is not informing God; it's honoring Him as the source of your life. He wants you to understand who He is—an all-powerful Father who loves to involve His children in what He's doing.

We are also called to prayer because it is crucial for our spiritual growth.

You can memorize endless scriptures, attend church, be baptized, and talk to people about Jesus Christ, but if you neglect prayer, you are on the road to ultimate spiritual defeat.

You simply cannot develop an intimate relationship with anyone unless you spend time sharing and listening, because that's a big part of learning who the other person is.

God reveals Himself to the degree that you open your heart to Him, listen, and then act upon what He shows you.

Prayer is all about relationship. Jesus told His disciples, "If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it." (John 14:14)

That doesn't mean tagging "in Jesus' name" onto any request obligates God to provide what you want!

Jesus goes on to explain that He will do whatever we ask when we are abiding in His presence and filled with His Spirit. (John 15:7-8)

Praying in His name means coming to Him under His authority, in submission to His will, and in total dependence upon Him. Allow this attitude to govern what you request of the Lord.

QuoteThat doesn't mean tagging "in Jesus' name" onto any request obligates God to provide what you want!

I looked up the verse from John 14 on blueletterbible.org
this is the entry for "name"

strongs# 3686 (name) onoma {on'-om-ah}
1) name: univ. of proper names
2) the name is used for everything which the name covers, everything the thought or feeling of which is aroused in the mind by mentioning, hearing, remembering, the name, i.e. for one's rank, authority, interests, pleasure, command, excellences, deeds etc.

Really excellent, Joyce.  I pray right now that everyone who comes to CP will read, understand, and apply this.

Thanks, Joyce.  We must abide in Him and He in us for us to pray "in Jesus name."  It's all about relationship.