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| INSIGHTS FROM SCRIPTURE: Prayer in the Bible is often defined as the spiritual response, either verbal or non-verbal to God. But prayer is much more than that. Luke reports that Jesus was constantly in prayer, either silently or out loud. That is because Jesus was talking and listening, communicating with God. Prayer is not just a spiritual response to God—it’s a two way conversation with God! Jesus wanted his disciples to know and understand this, which is why he taught them how to pray. The disciples also noticed something about the way Jesus prayed, and it made them want to know more—that’s why one of them asked Jesus how to pray. Prayer is not always answered immediately; in fact that’s the case more times then not. This is something that Jesus understood and knew the disciples needed to know as well. It may appear that Jesus is saying that if you pray enough for something you will get it— in other words, be persistent. But there’s more to it than that. First of all, God does not do anything he does not want to. God also knows what is best for us, despite what we think. So, it appears that Jesus is saying that if your desires line up with God, your request will be granted when God sees it is best. Towards the end, Jesus begins to wrap up his teaching on prayer by making an important point. Jesus encourages his disciples to bring their requests before God boldly and with the right desires, and God will answer them and when he sees fit (verse 9). Jesus also points out the similarities between the good father and God (verses 11-13). Just as the good father gives his son good gifts, God will give them the gift of the Spirit if they ask. Continued... |
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