And, Prayer Matters, Why Exactly?
JESUS PRAYED
Jesus Himself set our example and continued praying with the Father just as Israel did from Abraham on forward. We follow His way in our lives.
The New Testament offers several profound moments where Jesus demonstrates the importance of prayer, both through his personal actions and his direct teachings to his followers.
The Lord’s Prayer
When his disciples asked for guidance on how to speak with God, Jesus provided a specific framework.
Matthew 6:9–13: "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name...'"
Luke 11:2–4: A similar version of the prayer given in response to the request, "Lord, teach us to pray."
Jesus’ Personal Prayers
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus is often depicted withdrawing from crowds to find solitude.
Luke 5:16: "But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed."
Matthew 26:36–44: His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he asks, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
John 17: Known as the High Priestly Prayer, this entire chapter is a lengthy prayer Jesus offers for his disciples and all future believers.
Luke 23:34: Even on the cross, he prays for those around him: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
Instructions on Attitude and Persistence
Jesus frequently taught that the heart behind the prayer matters more than the words themselves.
Matthew 6:5–7: He warns against praying "like the hypocrites" who want to be seen by others, advising instead to "go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen."
Mark 11:24: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."
Luke 18:1–8: The Parable of the Persistent Widow, which Jesus told to show that they should "always pray and not give up."
The Power of Agreement
Jesus also highlighted the communal aspect of prayer.
Matthew 18:19–20: "Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
As Christ followers, following His Way, we must be obedient and pray as He did.