Prayer- a foundation often neglected

Scriptures to consider: Matthew 21:22; Luke 6:12; Acts 1:14, 2:42, 6:4, 12:5; Romans 12:12, 15:30; Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 5:16

6. Dedication to prayer, both individual and corporate. We have a God who listens to and answers prayer, and desires for us to bring to Him all of our needs and concerns, as well as our thanks and praise. Times of prayer should be scheduled as well as impromptu, fervent, interceding, persevering, in all things, and in faith, expecting God to answer.

Yet again we find a topic that seems to be implied, but  one that is too often disregarded in the church. We want to be sure that we follow the Biblical example. You will not see a "prayer  meeting" anywhere in the Bible, but times of prayer sprinkled throughout God's Word. This does not mean we should not come together for a meeting of prayer, in fact we ought always to be praying.  We see commands to pray for those in authority over us, prayers of intercession on other's behalf, and many other prayers. Interestingly, in the passages concerning the Lord's Supper, we don't see the model for prayer. This is not to say that we should not pray at these times, but rather it is part of the daily life of a Christian to communicate with the Father. 

So, what does the prayer example look like in the church meetings when we are assembled? Continue to search God's Word and see. The epistles are full of mention of praying for others, praying for God to provide for needs, prayer and fasting together for casting out certain demons. Look around the Bible for yourself, and see that prayer is not a ritualistic practice, but communication with headquarters and a sweet time of focus where we engage the Father through the Son, the Mediator between God and man. 

Input is always welcome and encouraged. Consider what prayer means to you and if you are spending time in communication with God in prayer. Thank you for the input so far via email and such. If you comment on this blog post, others can see and continue to talk things through. Hope to hear from you all soon. May God richly bless you as you serve Him.