Introductory Thoughts
The Bible clearly proclaims that believers have full access to the throne of God through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, the Bible also identifies circumstances that can and will hinder a believer’s prayer life. According to James 1:6-7, a lack of faith hinders the Lord’s response to a person’s prayer. According to 1 John 3:22, disobedience can also be a hindrance to prayer. In 1 Peter 3:7, the Bible declares that the prayers of a troubled home will be hindered. In addition to this, the Lord acknowledges the benefit of praying according to His will (1 John 5:14). It is important to pray but also important to insure that your prayer life is not hindered by your personal walk and ways.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): When we have done something wrong, dad and mom want us to talk about it and apologize before we try to talk to them about other things. This holds true for when we talk to the Lord. Read Psalm 66:18.
-
(For everyone): How can praying according to Gods will provide a believer with assurance? Why is it important that we pray believing that God can answer our prayers?
-
What efforts have you made to ensure your prayers are not hindered? Is there anything in your life right now that you know would hinder your prayers? What will you do to change that?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you pray in faith.
- Ask the Lord to teach you to pray according to His will.
Song
YE WHO KNOW THE WORTH OF PRAYER
