InstaStudy

How to Pray

An outline for a Bible study on prayer.

1. The Foundation of Prayer: Approaching God

1.1 Understanding God's Nature

Verses: John 14:9; Colossians 1:15; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • God is one, manifested in different roles and expressions.
  • Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God.
  • God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

1.2 Approaching God Through Jesus

Verses: John 14:6; Hebrews 4:16; Ephesians 2:18
  • Jesus is the only way to the Father.
  • We can come boldly to the throne of grace through Jesus.
  • Through Jesus, we have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

2. Essential Elements of Prayer

2.1 Faith and Belief

Verses: Mark 11:24; Hebrews 11:6
  • Believe that you receive what you ask for in prayer.
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
  • Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

2.2 Sincerity and Humility

Verses: James 4:6; Luke 18:14
  • God gives grace to the humble.
  • The humble will be exalted.
  • The publican who prayed with humility was justified.

2.3 Praying in the Spirit

Verses: Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Jude 1:20
  • The Spirit helps us in our weakness, interceding for us.
  • Pray with the spirit and with understanding.
  • Build yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.

3. Types and Purposes of Prayer

3.1 Supplication and Petition

Verses: Philippians 4:6; 1 Timothy 2:1-2
  • Make your requests known to God with thanksgiving.
  • Pray for all people, including those in authority.
  • Pray for specific needs and concerns.

3.2 Thanksgiving and Praise

Verses: Psalm 100:4; Colossians 4:2
  • Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.
  • Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant with thanksgiving.
  • Acknowledge God's goodness and blessings.

3.3 Intercession

Verses: James 5:16; Ephesians 6:18
  • Pray for one another, that you may be healed.
  • Pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit for all the saints.
  • Stand in the gap for others.

4. Practical Application of Prayer

4.1 Consistency and Persistence

Verses: Luke 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
  • Men ought always to pray and not lose heart.
  • Pray without ceasing.
  • Develop a consistent prayer life.

4.2 Fasting and Prayer

Verses: Matthew 6:16-18; Joel 2:12
  • When you fast, anoint your head and wash your face.
  • Turn to God with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.
  • Fasting intensifies prayer.