Good morning,
Happy New Year!
Our theme for the year is “What Will You Risk in 2026? The next four weeks we will study 4 Whys.
Why read the Bible? Why pray? Why obey God? And why witness for Christ?
What things will you risk to make these happen? Time, fear, or lack of commitment?
What Will You Risk in 2026?
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Why pray?
Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Prayer is talking with God. God desires a personal relationship with His people. God wants us to come to Him with our praises, concerns, and requests. In response, God speaks to us through His word, other people, or even a still small voice.
Prayer is one of the most vital aspects of a Christian’s life. It’s our direct line of communication with God, allowing us to connect with Him, seek guidance, and grow in faith. Here are 20 reasons, supported by Scripture, why every believer needs to pray.
Prayer Brings Peace
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.”
When we pray, we can exchange anxiety for God’s peace.
Prayer Is a Command
1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”
God calls us to make prayer a continual practice in our lives.
Prayer Invites God’s Protection
Psalm 91:15 – “He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.”
In prayer, we find refuge and protection under God’s watchful care.
Prayer Leads to Spiritual Growth
Colossians 4:2 – “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;”
Prayer shapes and transforms us spiritually, helping us grow in God’s wisdom and love.
Prayer Helps You Resist Temptation
Matthew 26:41 – “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Prayer strengthens our spirit, equipping us to stand against temptation.
Prayer Invites God’s Wisdom and Guidance
James 1:5 – “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Through prayer, we seek God’s wisdom in difficult situations.
Prayer Brings Healing and Restoration
James 5:16 – “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
Prayer brings both physical and spiritual healing.
Prayer Helps You Forgive
Mark 11:25 – “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
Prayer cultivates a heart of forgiveness and mercy.
(https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueChristian/comments/1gtf9ze/20_reasons_why_you_need_to_pray/)
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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