Ephesians 6:18, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”

Paul in the above verse gives the basis for “all kinds of prayers and requests” in the Christian life.  Some may think of prayer as only being “one-dimensional,” however; they are many different aspects and dimensions in prayer.  The most popular form of prayer is, “the prayer of request.”

The prayer of request is praying to God for Him to meet a need.  Jesus taught His disciples this kind of prayer in the Lord’s Prayer when he prayed, “Give us our daily bread.”  Also, Jesus spoke of this kind of prayer in John 14:13-14, “13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.”

The Biblical way to pray the prayer of request is to, (1) Come to God the Father in Jesus’ name, (2) Pray based on God’s will revealed in the Bible, and (3) Lastly, end with praise and confidence in God’s power.

Here is an example of the prayer of request regarding the need of finances, “Dear Heavenly Father, I come to you in the name of Jesus asking you to provide financial blessings for me so that I might be a blessing to my family and community.  I ask you to bless me according to your Word in Luke 6:38 where you said, “that if I give it will be given back to me.”  As a faithful tither and giver of offering I therefore ask according to your Word to pour out your blessings upon me for your Kingdom sake.  I believe you are able and I praise you for Your goodness.  Amen.”

Of course, every prayer should come from your own heart and be spontaneous, but the basic principles should be followed.  Also, remember that God’s promises come with conditions that must be obeyed for God to respond and answer accordingly.  Thus, always place obedience to God’s Word as the basis of your requests and remain submitted to His will.  In doing so, I believe you will see God answer your prayers and meet your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus!

Reflection

What are some of your needs?

Action

  1. Think about three important needs in your life.
  2. Find a promise from God in His Word for each of your needs.
  3. In obedience to God’s Word pray to God the Father in Jesus’ name and make your requests known with praise and trust!