Don't Forget to Pray
—Why we shouldn't neglect prayer
Our Remember series would not be complete without a lesson on prayer. Prayer is so important, yet we can forget to pray. The following chart lesson shows why we shouldn't neglect prayer.
"People should keep on praying at all times, and not lose heart" (Luke 18:1). "Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1Thessalonians 5:16-18).
P —Peace of mind is the legacy of prayer
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7
SOLACE in trouble
R —Repentance from sin is marked by prayer
"Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you." "If we confess our sins, God is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"
Acts 8:22, 1John 1:9
SALVATION from sin
A —Aims and activities are furthered by prayer
"Now to him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to him be glory in the church in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen." "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid."
Ephesians 3:20-21, Hebrews 13:6
SUCCESS in life
Y —Yearning for Heaven is strengthened in prayer
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, longing for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life... who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of his glory, blameless with great joy."
Jude 1:20-21,24
SECURITY for our souls
E —Earnestness and zeal are fuelled by prayer
Whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing in his sight... he abides in us by the Spirit which he has given us." "If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each man's work, conduct yourselves in fear..."
1John 3:22-24, 1Peter 1:17
SERVICE to God
R —Revival and regeneration come by prayer
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him... the prayer offered in faith will restore... sins will be forgiven... the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."
James 5:13-20
SPIRITUAL restoration
Philippians 4:4-9
4. Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, 'Rejoice!'
5. Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
6. In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
7. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
8. Finally, brothers...
whatever things are true,
whatever things are honorable,
whatever things are just,
whatever things are pure,
whatever things are lovely,
whatever things are of good report;
...if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.
9. The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me: do these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
—World English Bible (WEB)