Welcome to Warrior Wednesday! I’m Elder Joseph Watson, and I’m thrilled to lead this Bible study focused on prayer. Prayer is one of the most vital aspects of our faith, yet many of us still have questions: When should I pray? How do I pray? How often? Where can I seek help if I need prayer?
Through this platform, Band of Warriors for Christ, we’re here to lift one another up. We are committed to uniting as warriors for Jesus and working toward a world where more souls are saved. We may not be able to reach everyone, but every prayer makes a difference.
Why Prayer?
Before diving into the scriptures, let’s pray together. Father, we thank You for this moment and for bringing us together. We know that wherever two or three gather in Your name, You are with us. We’re grateful for the opportunity to speak with You, even when we don’t always feel Your presence. We ask You to bless this Bible study, fill our hearts with understanding, and guide us as we seek to deepen our connection with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Prayer is not just a religious obligation; it’s a conversation with God. It’s an opportunity to open our hearts and minds to Him, seeking His wisdom and comfort.
Starting with Psalms: A Guide to Heartfelt Prayer
In Psalm 5:1-3, David provides a great example of how we can approach God in prayer:
“Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”
David’s focus was on beginning his day with prayer. He directed his voice to God early in the morning, setting the tone for the day ahead. He wasn’t just praying out of habit—he was communicating his deepest thoughts and feelings, acknowledging God’s sovereignty, and asking for guidance.
Setting the Right Tone: Matthew 6 and the Lord’s Prayer
Jesus gave us a blueprint for prayer in Matthew 6:5-13. He emphasized the importance of humility and sincerity, warning us not to pray like the hypocrites who seek attention. Instead, He encouraged us to pray in secret, in a way that is personal and from the heart.
The Lord’s Prayer teaches us several key things:
1. Acknowledge God’s holiness: “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”
2. Seek God’s will: “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
3. Ask for daily needs: “Give us this day our daily bread.”
4. Seek forgiveness: “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”
5. Ask for protection: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
6. End with praise: “For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever.”
This structure shows us that prayer is about more than just asking for things—it’s about aligning ourselves with God’s will, seeking His guidance, and acknowledging His greatness.
Humility and Obedience in Prayer: 2 Chronicles 7
In 2 Chronicles 7:12-14, God responds to Solomon’s prayer:
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
This passage is a powerful reminder that humility is essential in prayer. We must humble ourselves before God, acknowledge our need for His help, and turn away from sin. When we do this, God promises to hear us, forgive us, and bring healing.
God’s Awareness of Our Needs: Psalm 139
In Psalm 139:1-4, David speaks of how God knows us completely:
“O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.”
God knows every detail of our lives, even before we utter a word. He understands our thoughts, needs, and desires, making prayer not about informing God, but about building a relationship with Him.
Praying with Zeal: Ephesians 6:18
Paul encourages us in Ephesians 6:18 to:
“Pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
Prayer should be fervent and constant, done in the Spirit and with a heart that desires to connect with God deeply. This kind of prayer is full of energy and purpose, not just going through the motions.
Persistence in Prayer: Acts 12
In Acts 12:5, Peter was imprisoned, but:
“Prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.”
The early church demonstrated the power of persistent prayer. Their unwavering prayers led to Peter’s miraculous release. This reminds us that we should never give up in prayer, even when things seem impossible.
The Power of Fervent Prayer: James 5:16
The Bible says in James 5:16:
“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
Fervent prayer is powerful and effective. It’s not just about asking—it’s about seeking God with passion and intensity. When we pray fervently, our prayers can change situations, bring healing, and draw us closer to God.
Conclusion: Seek First the Kingdom of God
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus tells us:
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
When we prioritize God and His will in our prayers, everything else will fall into place. Prayer is not just about receiving—it’s about seeking God’s presence, trusting in His plan, and living a life that reflects His love and grace.
Let’s continue to pray fervently and seek God daily. Prayer is a powerful tool that brings us closer to God and strengthens our faith. Keep praying, warriors. God is listening.
Joseph Watson, an elder in the Warriors for Christ, was baptized in 1981 while serving in the U.S. Navy. As a former Associate Pastor for Christian Fellowship International Military Ministry, he has dedicated his life to teaching, evangelizing, and strengthening the faith of others.
