Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Recall a moment in your childhood when you saw the toy you were eyeing for awhile. How did you get it? Most likely, you asked your mom or dad, Aunty or Uncle, grandparent or caretaker to buy it for you and responded with thanks. Likewise, God wants us to always pray to him when we’re in need.
For whom do I pray? More than ourselves, pray for our loved ones and enemies. No one is beyond need for prayer.
When and where to pray? At all times and in all places—in the heat of temptation, before that exam or job interview. Pray when you’re happy, sad, angry, confused, lonely, or anxious.
Why pray? Praying is “God’s will” (5:18). It is good for us. Throughout the Bible, He promised that He’ll hear our prayers when we call (e.g. Mt. 21:22; Mk. 11:24).
What should I pray? If you’re not quite sure where to start, here’s a general guideline on what to pray, using the acronym, ACTS:
Adoration. You adore God for Who He is.
Confession. Prayfully confess and repent the sins you’ve committed against God.
Thanksgiving. “Rejoice always…Give thanks in everything” (5:18), including your trials (Jas. 1:2-3).
Supplication. Lift up your prayer requests to God (Phil. 4:6). If you need an example to pray through, try Paul’s prayer to the Ephesians (Eph. 1:15-19).
How should we pray? Whether out loud or silently, solo or corporately, in writing or in singing, ”pray constantly” (5:17). Regularly meet with brothers or sisters and pray for each other (Acts 2:42; Heb. 10:25). Prayer is not a show, since God already knows your heart’s desires (Mt. 6:5-8). Prayer is speaking with your Father. Pray like the child who wants a toy or food (Mt. 18:3-4). Jesus taught best on how to pray, with the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 as an example of a prayer of adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication.
Let’s pray to our Father not because we deserve anything from him, but because he has invited us to come. He will surely hear our prayers if we trust in him (Ps. 66:19-20).