Definition and Purpose
Strategic prayer refers to the intentional and purposeful approach to prayer that aligns with God's will and purposes. It involves discerning God's plans and praying specifically for their fulfillment. This type of prayer is characterized by its focus on specific outcomes, often related to spiritual warfare, evangelism, and the advancement of God's kingdom.

Biblical Foundations
The concept of strategic prayer is rooted in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to pray with purpose and understanding. In Ephesians 6:18, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." This verse highlights the importance of being alert and intentional in prayer, suggesting a strategic approach.

Examples in Scripture
1. Nehemiah's Prayer: Nehemiah exemplifies strategic prayer when he learns about the desolation of Jerusalem. In Nehemiah 1:4-11, he prays specifically for favor with the king and for the success of his mission to rebuild the city. His prayer is marked by confession, supplication, and a clear request aligned with God's purposes.

2. Daniel's Intercession: Daniel's prayer in Daniel 9:3-19 is another example of strategic prayer. He prays for the restoration of Jerusalem, aligning his requests with God's promises. Daniel's prayer is informed by Scripture, demonstrating a strategic approach that seeks the fulfillment of God's prophetic word.

3. The Lord's Prayer: In Matthew 6:9-13, Jesus provides a model for strategic prayer. The Lord's Prayer includes petitions for God's kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. This prayer reflects a strategic focus on God's overarching purposes.

Elements of Strategic Prayer
1. Alignment with God's Will: Strategic prayer seeks to align with God's revealed will. In 1 John 5:14-15, believers are assured that if they ask anything according to His will, He hears them. This underscores the importance of discerning God's will through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

2. Specificity: Strategic prayer involves specific requests rather than vague or general petitions. Philippians 4:6 encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, emphasizing the need for clarity and precision in prayer.

3. Persistence: Jesus teaches the importance of persistence in prayer through the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8. Strategic prayer often requires perseverance, as believers continue to pray until God's purposes are realized.

4. Spiritual Warfare: Strategic prayer is often employed in the context of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 reminds believers that their struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Praying strategically involves recognizing and addressing these spiritual battles.

Practical Application
Believers are encouraged to engage in strategic prayer by seeking God's guidance and wisdom. This can be done through regular study of Scripture, listening to the Holy Spirit, and being attentive to the needs and challenges around them. Strategic prayer can be applied in various contexts, including personal growth, church ministry, missions, and societal issues.

Conclusion
Strategic prayer is a vital aspect of the Christian life, enabling believers to partner with God in His redemptive work. By praying with purpose and intention, believers can effectively contribute to the advancement of God's kingdom on earth.