Biblical Teachings on Prayer
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
~ Apostle Paul
Pondering Point
Maybe you are anxious today; maybe not. Either way, take this lesson above to heart and apply it to your personal prayers. If you don’t already do so, add a time of thanksgiving as you present other requests. Scan your environment for things and people to thank God for. Let this typify your prayers – and keep listening and looking for answers to your prayers! Doing so spawns more thanksgiving and less anxiety as you see God’s work and presence in every situation.
But what should you be thankful for? You could start with any past answers that relate to your current anxiety. (“God, I know You have handled this with me in the past – thanks!”). Consider basics like the daily bread mentioned in the Lord’s Prayer: Food, clothing, shelter, supplies, friends and family. You are welcome to thank God for His grace, mercy, forgiveness, for fresh starts, new days, safety – for Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Now then, on to praying:
Prayer
1. Thank God for what crosses your mind (use the suggestions above as a help)
2. Present your request regarding your anxiety
3. Anticipate and be on the lookout for His answer
God certainly gives daily bread without our prayer, even to all the wicked; but we pray in this petition that He would lead us to acknowledge this and receive our daily bread with thanksgiving. Daily bread includes everything needed for this life, such as food, drink, clothing, shoes, house, home, fields, cattle, money, goods, God-fearing spouse and children, faithful ser¬vants and rulers, good government, good weather, peace, health, order, honor, true friends, good neighbors, and the like.
~ Martin Luther, explanation to 4th Petition of the Lord’s Prayer