1. THE WILL OF GOD
and PRAYER

2. “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Matthew 6:9-13 NIV

3. It is God’s will for us to Pray
The Bible teaches us to pray
There are numerous examples of prayer in the Bible
We learn what to pray, when to pray, why to pray, how to pray . . .

4. It is God’s will for us to Pray
God Commands us to pray
Not that we need to inform God; He already knows! – Matthew 6:8
Prayer is an essential part of the Christian life – “This, then, is how you should pray” – Matthew 6:9

5. How God Wants us to Pray The Lord’s Model Prayer – Matthew 6:9-13
Not only to be memorized and recited, but as an example of the primary points we should pray
We are reminded that God is our Father; He is holy; our desire is for His rule over all things and His will to be obeyed . . .

6. Why God Wants us to Pray Builds our relationship with God
Conversation is essential to any relationship
God wants to have a relationship with us!

7. Why God Wants us to Pray Brings us closer to God
When we draw near to God in prayer, He draws near to us – Jeremiah 29:11-13; James 4:7-8
He loves us as a father loves his children!

8. Why God Wants us to Pray Makes us more like Christ
Prayer was a major part of Jesus’ life
When we pray like Jesus, we become more like Him

9. Why God Wants us to Pray Helps us practice humility
We’re reminded of our complete dependence on God
We’re reminded of His grace and mercy

10. Why God Wants us to Pray His will becomes Our will
Prayer helps us align our lives with the will of God
Through prayer we receive the strength to do God’s will!