Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching for this purpose with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I. Stages of Prayer:

1) My Wants

2) Others' Wants

3) My Needs

4) Others' Needs

5) God's Wants (Needs?)

II. Types of Prayer

1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;

Prayer in tough times: Mt 26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou [wilt].

Pour out feelings; Recognize that God can change things; Align your will with His; Yield yourself to do His will.

Unanswered Prayer: See Psalm 22

Prayer while suffering the consequences of our own stupidity: See Lamentations

III. Things for which to Pray

Eph 1:16ff insight into hope, inheritance, power

Eph 3:14ff strengthened, indwelt, controlled

Mt 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak.

Lu 21:36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

1Pe 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober minded, and watch to prayer.

Ro 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they may be saved.

2Co 1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift [bestowed] upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

Mt 6:7 when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name...

Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:

1. If God has everything planned out/predetermined, why should I pray?

2. T or F "Prayer doesn't change things; prayer changes me."

3. Do we view prayer as offensive or defensive?

4. Do you have to pray a lot about something or is one time sufficient?

5. What things do we pray for each other?