Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8620 prayer, practicalities of

8620 prayer, practicalities of

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8600 Prayer and worship of the believer » 8602 prayer » 8620 prayer, practicalities of

Scripture commends a life of prayer, characterised by simplicity of expression, sincerity of heart and trust in the promises of God. It gives guidance on how, when and where to pray.

Scripture stresses the importance of prayer

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 See also Acts 6:3-4; Romans 12:12

Judgment comes on those who do not pray

Prayers should be expressed simply

Matthew 6:7-8 See also Ecclesiastes 5:1-3; Luke 18:9-14

Prayer should not be ostentatious

Matthew 6:5-6 See also Matthew 14:23 pp Mark 6:46; Luke 5:16

Physical positions for prayer

Sitting while praying

2 Samuel 7:18 See also Judges 20:26; Nehemiah 1:4

Kneeling while praying

Standing while praying

1 Kings 8:22 See also 1 Samuel 1:26; Mark 11:25

Lying prostrate while praying

2 Chronicles 20:18 See also Genesis 24:52; Numbers 20:6

Praying with arms outstretched

Exodus 9:29; Isaiah 1:15 See also 1 Kings 8:54; 2 Chronicles 6:13

Praying with hands raised

1 Timothy 2:8 See also Exodus 9:29; 1 Kings 8:22,54; Psalm 63:4; Psalm 77:1-2

Prayer can be offered at any time

Praying several times a day

Daniel 6:10 See also Psalm 55:17; Psalm 88:1

Praying early in the morning

Mark 1:35 See also Psalm 5:3; Psalm 119:147

Praying all night

Luke 6:12 See also 1 Samuel 15:11; Luke 2:37

Prayer is not confined to any single place

John 4:21-24

Praying inside a building

Daniel 6:10; Matthew 6:6 See also 1 Kings 8:28-30

Praying outside a building

Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16 See also Acts 10:9; Acts 21:5

Prayer may be accompanied by fasting

Acts 13:2-3 See also Ezra 8:23; Nehemiah 1:4; Psalm 35:13; Daniel 9:3; Luke 2:37; Luke 5:33; Acts 14:23; Matthew 17:21 fn pp Mark 9:29 fn