PRAYER DESK

PRAYER—WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
(TAKEN FROM THE BOOK ENTITLED—PRAYER:
NEARLY EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW)

    Before getting into the main text of this message, it is necessary to give a preview of what will follow. The following is a summary of the main text.

    Consider, if you talked with your wife six minutes a day, what kind of relationship would you have with her? If you pray six minutes a day or less, what kind of relationship do you have with God?

    Are you not commanded to pray? Jesus said MEN OUGHT ALWAYS TO PRAY-Lk 18:1. The way to receive things from God, is to ask Him in prayer. God’s Word reminds us that, YE HAVE NOT, BECAUSE YE ASK NOT-Ja 4:2. There is joy in prayer: ASK, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE, THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL-Jn 16:24. Prayer will deliver you from your troubles: THIS POOR MAN CRIED, AND THE LORD HEARD HIM, AND SAVED HIM OUT OF ALL HIS TROUBLES-Ps 34:6. Prayer can open to us the treasure chest of God’s wisdom: 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-Ja 1:5. Prayer is a channel of power: CALL UNTO ME, AND I WILL ANSWER THEE, AND SHEW THEE GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS, WHICH THOU KNOWEST NOT-Jere 33:3.

    Did you know that it is sin not to pray? MOREOVER AS FOR ME, GOD FORBID THAT I SHOULD SIN AGAINST THE LORD IN CEASING TO PRAY FOR YOU: BUT I WILL TEACH YOU THE GOOD AND THE RIGHT WAY: ONLY FEAR THE LORD, AND SERVE HIM IN TRUTH WITH ALL YOUR HEART: FOR CONSIDER HOW GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE FOR YOU-1 Sam 12:23,24.

    Sinners can be saved if they pray in faith and follow in obedience to the Gospel: FOR WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED-Ro 10:13. Jesus while here in the flesh, prayed often to the Father. We are to PRAY WITHOUT CEASING-1 Thes 5:17. God heard Solomon’s prayer, and promised He would watch over the temple, and cause Solomon’s descendants to be kings of Israel forever. This promise was based on the people of Israel following God. If they did not, God promised that He would remove the people of Israel from the temple, from the land, and He would disperse them. Israel would become an astonishment to the nations, and a proverb of sudden disaster. The temple would become a heap of ruins. Those that pass by would see the ruin, and wonder why God punished Israel. This happened because the people worshipped other gods. Do you worship other gods, such as astrology, money, success, or getting ahead in this world?
   DOES GOD ANSWER PRAYER? Yes, beyond our expectation-ref Jere 33:3; sometimes after delay-ref Lk 18:7; sometimes differently than our desire-ref 2 Cor 12:8,9; sometimes immediately-ref Isa 65:24. Our prayer is not answered if we ask amiss-ref Ja 4:3. We read in Gal 6:7-BE NOT DECEIVED; GOD IS NOT MOCKED: FOR WHATSOEVER A MAN SOWETH, THAT SHALL HE ALSO REAP. Jeremiah’s prayers for the sparing of Israel from captivity were not answered, even though they were given in earnestness and faith. He understood God’s will, and was willing to take no for an answer. Jerusalem had gone too far. They had sinned. God said of her, it was too late. JERUSALEM HATH GRIEVOUSLY SINNED; THEREFORE SHE IS REMOVED-Lam 1:8. Do you mock God time after time as He calls you to repent, yet you will not? When the day comes that you need God, what will you do? It was too late for Jerusalem. God turned away. Yet the Scripture tells us, LET US SEARCH AND TRY OUR WAYS, AND TURN AGAIN TO THE LORD. LET US LIFT UP OUR HEART WITH OUR HANDS UNTO GOD IN THE HEAVENS. WE HAVE TRANSGRESSED AND HAVE REBELLED: THOU HAST NOT PARDONED-Lam 3:40-42.

    Many Christians think prayer is a time to ask God for what they want. Perhaps this is why so many prayers go unanswered. It was suggested that the following is a good guideline for prayer. First, praise and worship God in truth. Second, confess all your sins to Him, and be willing to turn from all willful sin, and obey the Gospel. Truly have a repentant heart. Third, give thanks for all your blessings. Give thanks even in difficult times. Finally, let your requests be known to God. Pray in faith, and in accordance with the Scriptures. This means you need to study God’s Word. Do not compromise in reading and studying the Bible. Some people pray much, but study God’s Word little. A person that reads only one or two chapters a day, is usually misled and not serious about God.

    Now we are reminded that, FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR, THE EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN-Heb 11:1. Faith comes from hearing the Word of God, and the Bible tells us FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD, BEING ALONE-Ja 2:20,17. If you are not reading your Bible and serving Jesus, when the time comes that you need faith, it will not be there. Since without faith it is impossible to please God, how will you get an answer from God? Praying something like, "Well, if it be God’s will," is praying with no faith at all. You need to know what God’s will is (from the Bible), then pray the prayer of faith. You need to have unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.

    The Bible tells us that David prayed about the erection of a temple, but his prayers were answered during Solomon’s day. The Bible shows us our prayers cannot be answered when: it seeks to change God’s decrees-ref Deut 3:23-27; when it seeks to avoid deserved chastisement-ref 2 Sam 12:16-18; when it is prompted by selfish, personal motives-ref Mt 6:5 and Ja 4:2,3; when a prayer is meaningless and repetitious-ref Mt 6:7; when it is offered without first confession of conscious known sin-ref 1 Jn 1:8-10; when it disregards the known will of God-ref 1 Sam 8:9,10; and when we do not honor our wives-ref 1 Pe 3:7. We should pray for our needs not selfish things. For we read in Ps 107:13-THEN THEY CRIED UNTO THE LORD IN THEIR TROUBLE, AND HE SAVED THEM OUT OF THEIR DISTRESSES. Here, the remnant of Israel is no longer proud. Now, they look to the Messiah for help, and to Him alone. They have learned that the key to prayer is obedience to God. God was always there, but they did not call upon Him. The telephone is there, but it only works when you pick it up and dial a number. You may forget the telephone, but when you need help, suddenly you remember it. God’s telephone number is listed in Jere 33:3. To receive answers you must be born-again. You must forgive others who have offended you-ref Mk 11:26. You must repent of known sin, forsake it-ref Isa 55:7. You must pray in His will-ref I Jn 5:14,15. You are to DELIGHT THYSELF ALSO IN THE LORD; AND HE SHALL GIVE THEE THE DESIRES OF THINE HEART. COMMIT THY WAY UNTO THE LORD; TRUST ALSO IN HIM; AND HE SHALL BRING IT TO PASS-Ps 37:4,5. Delight means that God, and the things of God, must be your daily constant joy. If you only remember God when you want something, or in a quick grace at meals, this is not delight. When you begin to delight in the Lord, God may begin answering your prayers. Our grateful acknowledgment to the Salem Kirban Bible and Royal Publisher's The Open Bible for part of the previous commentaries. God has at times answered prayers contrary to some of these to fulfill his purpose.
   Following is a partial index to the message that follows on prayer:

    You can pray to God in any position. People in the Bible prayed lifting up hands; bowing on knees; falling with their face to the ground; and looking toward heaven. The key is to humble yourself before the Lord. You can pray on a roof top; alone; among many; facing a wall; or standing in front of an assembly.

    Continuously; night and day; all night; 9th hour (3 pm); evening, morning, and noon.

    Confession (repenting); for forgiveness; intercession, interceding for someone else; for needs; praise and worship; songs of thanksgiving; thanksgiving in all circumstances; mercy; for those in authority; for trouble; to bind on earth; to loose on earth; for saints; for healing (for raising the dead), (for sick); pray and lay hands on; for knowledge, wisdom, and depth of insight (fasting); for loved ones (send workers in the field, draw them, lift spiritual blindness); Jesus prayed for those God gave Him; Jesus prayed for those who killed Him; pray one for another; do not pray for sin that leads to death; praying and singing hymns; pray not to fall into temptation; and pray to be accounted worthy.

    Praise; confess; thanksgiving; supplication (needs and requests); in Jesus’ name.

    Beyond our expectation-ref Jere 33:3; sometimes after delay-ref Lk 18:7; sometimes differently than our desire-2 Cor 12:8,9; sometimes immediately-ref Isa 65:24; according to His will-ref 1 Jn 5:14,15; sometimes God says, "No."

    Our prayers may not be answered if we ask amiss (be content with food and clothing); if it seeks to change God’s decrees; if it causes God to act contrary to Himself; if you have not forgiven everyone; if it seeks to avoid deserved chastisement; if you do not do what the Word says and act on it; if prompted by selfish, personal motives; if you listen to the Word, but do not do it; if meaningless; if God’s Word is not in you; if you have no works; if repetitious; if you doubt; if you have no faith; if no confession of known sin is made; if it is contrary to God’s known will; if you shrink back; if not offered in faith; if not believe; if faith is like a wave; if faith is by zeal, not knowledge; if you do not possess the Holy Spirit and are truly saved, born-again; if you do not forgive others; if you do not delight in the Lord; if you do not seek God with all your heart; if you do not ask; if you do not seek; if you do not knock; if you do not seek My face; if you do not receive; if you do not bear much fruit; if not for the Father’s glory; if you do not show yourself to be My disciples (confess); if you do not ask God; if you do not ask in Jesus’ name; if it is babbling; if you do not love each other; if you do not bear fruit; if you are not faithful in prayer; if you give up; if you are not thankful; if you are serving other gods, which include money, and things of this world. Does your job come before God? or your friends? or anything? Your prayers may not be answered: if you are a friend of this world; if you ask with wrong motives; if you do not follow Jesus; if you do not fear Him; if you do not serve the Lord faithfully with all your heart; if you pray to be seen of men; if you are proud; if you are not humbled; if you do not obey Him; if we do not keep the commandment of love; if you do not keep His commandments; if it is not in reverent submission; if not righteous; if you do not remain in Me and I in you; if heart condemns us; if we do not do what pleases Him; if our heart is not right; if bitter; if captive to sin; God does not hear the wicked. If you turn a deaf ear to the Lord, then your prayers are detestable. Your prayers are not answered: if not called by My name; if not delight in revering His name; if mouth condemns you; if cherish sin in your heart; if not clear-minded; if you are separated from God by iniquity; if tongue mutters wicked things; if not godly; if do not do God’s will; and if we do not honor our wives.

    God answers our prayers if we confess our sins; if we pray according to His will; if our prayers do not change His decrees; if it does not cause God to act contrary to His own will; if offered in faith (asked in faith); if our faith is not like a wave (we must believe); if our faith is based on knowledge (His Word) not zeal alone; if we possess the Holy Spirit (which is given by the foreknowledge of God through faith and obedience to Him; God’s Spirit intercedes for us in accordance to God’s will); if you remain in Me and I in you; if you have forgiven others; if heart does not condemn you; if you delight in the Lord; if you do what pleases Him; if you pray often, continually; if righteous; if you call on the name of the Lord; if you pray in reverent submission; if you ask, seek, knock; if you can receive; if called by My name; if you seek Me with all your heart; if you delight in revering Jesus’ name; if you bear much fruit; if for Father’s glory; if you are clear-minded; if you show yourself to be My disciples (confess); if you keep His commandments. God answers prayer so that your joy may be complete; so the Son may bring glory to the Father; if you are a godly man who does His will; if you ask in Jesus’ name; if you are faithful in prayer; if you don’t give up; if you are thankful; if you listen to the Word and act on it; if the Word is in you; if you have works; if you do not doubt; if you do not shrink back; if you believe in Jesus (thus righteous); if you follow Me (Jesus); if you fear the Lord; if you serve the Lord faithfully with all your heart; if you humble yourself; if you obey Him; and if you keep the covenant of love, the Father will give, and I (Jesus) will do it.

    Heavenly Father, we pray that every person reading or hearing this message will receive it with a glad and open heart. We pray that Your Word will convict many to receive Jesus as their personal Savior. That through Your Word in this message many will repent and have a clear conscience before You. We pray this message will help many to begin to have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We pray that through this message many will come to have a strong, faith-led prayer life, and many prayers will be answered as a result. Thank you Father, in the glorious name of Jesus, for the wisdom contained in this message and for answering our prayer. In Jesus' name. Amen.

    This message is long, yet we hope that you will take the time to read every word. If you will let ALL of God’s Word in this message abide in your heart and if you will obey ALL His Word, then we believe that your prayer life will change and God will hear and answer your prayers.

    It is written, AND HE (Jesus) SPAKE THIS PARABLE UNTO CERTAIN, WHICH TRUSTED IN THEMSELVES THAT THEY WERE RIGHTEOUS, AND DESPISED OTHERS: TWO MEN WENT UP INTO THE TEMPLE TO PRAY; THE ONE A PHARISEE, AND THE OTHER A PUBLICAN. THE PHARISEE STOOD AND PRAYED THUS WITH HIMSELF, GOD, I THANK THEE, THAT I AM NOT AS OTHER MEN ARE, EXTORTIONERS, UNJUST, ADULTERERS, OR EVEN AS THIS PUBLICAN. I FAST TWICE IN THE WEEK, I GIVE TITHES OF ALL THAT I POSSESS. AND THE PUBLICAN, STANDING AFAR OFF, WOULD NOT LIFT UP SO MUCH AS HIS EYES UNTO HEAVEN, BUT SMOTE UPON HIS BREAST, SAYING, GOD BE MERCIFUL TO ME A SINNER. I TELL YOU, THIS MAN WENT DOWN TO HIS HOUSE JUSTIFIED RATHER THAN THE OTHER: FOR EVERY ONE THAT EXALTETH HIMSELF SHALL BE ABASED; AND HE THAT HUMBLETH HIMSELF SHALL BE EXALTED-Lk 18:9-14.

12-DOES GOD HEAR THE PRAYERS OF AN UNREPENTANT SINNER?

    You may ask, does God hear the prayers of an unrepentant sinner, of a person that is not truly born-again? God’s Word tells us, FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE OVER THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ARE OPEN UNTO THEIR PRAYERS: BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THEM THAT DO EVIL-1 Pe 3:12.
   BEHOLD, THE LORD’S HAND IS NOT SHORTENED, THAT IT CANNOT SAVE; NEITHER HIS EAR HEAVY, THAT IT CANNOT HEAR: BUT YOUR INIQUITIES HAVE SEPARATED BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR GOD, AND YOUR SINS HAVE HID HIS FACE FROM YOU, THAT HE WILL NOT HEAR-Isa 59:1,2.
   IF I REGARD INIQUITY IN MY HEART, THE LORD WILL NOT HEAR ME-Ps 66:18.
   THE LORD IS FAR FROM THE WICKED: BUT HE HEARETH THE PRAYER OF THE RIGHTEOUS-Pv 15:29. NOW WE KNOW THAT GOD HEARETH NOT SINNERS-Jn 9:31.
   So many people these days say they believe in God, and Jesus, yet they refuse to follow God’s commandments. The Bible tells us we are called to live a holy life. If we love God, we will keep His commandments. However, we are cautioned, HE THAT TURNETH AWAY HIS EAR FROM HEARING THE LAW, EVEN HIS PRAYER SHALL BE ABOMINATION-Pv 28:9.
   AND WHEN YE SPREAD FORTH YOUR HANDS, I WILL HIDE MINE EYES FROM YOU: YEA, WHEN YE MAKE MANY PRAYERS, I WILL NOT HEAR: YOUR HANDS ARE FULL OF BLOOD. WASH YOU, MAKE YOU CLEAN; PUT AWAY THE EVIL OF YOUR DOINGS FROM BEFORE MINE EYES; CEASE TO DO EVIL-Isa 1:15,16.
   THE SACRIFICE OF THE WICKED IS AN ABOMINATION TO THE LORD: BUT THE PRAYER OF THE UPRIGHT IS HIS DELIGHT-Pv 15:8.
   Did you know that if you love this world and the things in it, you are unsaved, and you are an enemy of God? Do you love that nice car? or house? Do you love your job, and want to get ahead? The Bible asks, KNOW YE NOT THAT THE FRIENDSHIP OF THE WORLD IS ENMITY (hatred) WITH GOD? WHOSOEVER THEREFORE WILL BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD IS THE ENEMY OF GOD-Ja 4:4. Do not be misled into thinking that God will answer your prayers if you love this world. We see very clearly that God only answers the prayers of the righteous.

    It is written, JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HIM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO THEE, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN-AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD-Jn 3:3. EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, HE CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD-Jn 3:5. Born of the Spirit is when God’s Spirit enters you. You may ask, "How can I be born-again?" It is written, FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH, BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE-Jn 3:16. IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD-Jn 1:1. AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS MADE FLESH, AND DWELT AMONG US, (AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY, THE GLORY AS OF THE ONLY BEGOTTEN OF THE FATHER,) FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH-Jn 1:14. Jesus became sin for us. He died on the cross for our sins. You can receive this forgiveness by believing on Jesus, repenting of all sin (turning your back on all sin), asking Jesus to come into your heart, confessing Jesus publicly (never be ashamed), and following the Gospel in obedience, including baptism.
   Note God’s Word, THAT IF THOU SHALT CONFESS WITH THY MOUTH THE LORD JESUS, AND SHALT BELIEVE IN THINE HEART THAT GOD HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, THOU SHALT BE SAVED. FOR WITH THE HEART MAN BELIEVETH UNTO RIGHTEOUSNESS; AND WITH THE MOUTH CONFESSION IS MADE UNTO SALVATION. FOR THE SCRIPTURE SAITH, WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH ON HIM SHALL NOT BE ASHAMED-Ro 10:9-11.
   Regarding repentance and baptism we read, REPENT (first), AND BE BAPTIZED (second) EVERY ONE OF YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST-Acts 2:38. Note, here it says we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost upon being baptized. The Scriptures further tell us, AND ALL THE PEOPLE THAT HEARD HIM, AND THE PUBLICANS, JUSTIFIED GOD, BEING BAPTIZED WITH THE BAPTISM OF JOHN-Lk 7:29. Note, they first heard the Word, then were baptized by total immersion (the baptism of John), not sprinkling, and not as a young child or infant. BUT THE PHARISEES AND LAWYERS REJECTED THE COUNSEL OF GOD AGAINST THEMSELVES, BEING NOT BAPTIZED OF HIM-Lk 7:30. Have you rejected the counsel of God by not being baptized the way the Bible commands after asking Jesus to be your personal Savior?
   You must have the Holy Spirit in you, or you are not saved. Our Lord gave us this example, NOW WHEN ALL THE PEOPLE WERE BAPTIZED, IT CAME TO PASS, THAT JESUS ALSO BEING BAPTIZED, AND PRAYING, THE HEAVEN WAS OPENED, AND THE HOLY GHOST DESCENDED IN A BODILY SHAPE LIKE A DOVE UPON HIM-Lk 3:21,22. BUT YE, BELOVED, BUILDING UP YOURSELVES ON YOUR MOST HOLY FAITH, PRAYING IN THE HOLY GHOST-Jude 20. (Note, "praying in the Holy Ghost.") Then we are given the wonderful assurance that, LIKEWISE THE SPIRIT ALSO HELPETH OUR INFIRMITIES: FOR WE KNOW NOT WHAT WE SHOULD PRAY FOR AS WE OUGHT: BUT THE SPIRIT ITSELF MAKETH INTERCESSION FOR US WITH GROANINGS WHICH CANNOT BE UTTERED. AND HE THAT SEARCHETH THE HEARTS KNOWETH WHAT IS THE MIND OF THE SPIRIT, BECAUSE HE MAKETH INTERCESSION FOR THE SAINTS ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD-Ro 8:26,27. If you do not have God’s Spirit in you, you are none of His. You are not born-again, and you are not saved.
   Jesus tells us, IF YE LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS. AND I WILL PRAY THE FATHER, AND HE SHALL GIVE YOU ANOTHER COMFORTER, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOREVER; EVEN THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH; WHOM THE WORLD CANNOT RECEIVE, BECAUSE IT SEETH HIM NOT, NEITHER KNOWETH HIM: BUT YE KNOW HIM; FOR HE DWELLETH WITH YOU, AND SHALL BE IN YOU-Jn 14:15-17. There is a condition put on receiving God’s Spirit; it is obedience to the Gospel. As we obey Him in love, the Scripture tells us, AND HE THAT KEEPETH HIS COMMANDMENTS DWELLETH IN HIM, AND HE IN HIM. AND HEREBY WE KNOW THAT HE ABIDETH IN US, BY THE SPIRIT WHICH HE HATH GIVEN US-1 Jn 3:24. AND BEING MADE PERFECT, HE BECAME THE AUTHOR OF ETERNAL SALVATION UNTO ALL THEM THAT OBEY HIM-Heb 5:9.
   We also must not walk after the flesh. As it is written, THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT-Ro 8:1. We are saved by grace. It is a gift of God. We cannot earn it, yet there is an obligation on our part in receiving God’s gift of grace. That obligation is a total uncompromising commitment of love and obedience. Many people’s prayers do not get answered, because they do not have the Holy Spirit inside them. They are unsaved, but they do not know it. They wander in darkness not knowing where they are going. They think they can compromise when it comes to God’s Word. Soon they will realize they were wrong, but it will be too late.

    Can you pray this prayer? EXAMINE ME, O LORD, AND PROVE ME; TRY MY REINS AND MY HEART-Ps 26:2. Then we read, THOU ART MY SERVANT; I HAVE CHOSEN THEE, AND NOT CAST THEE AWAY. FEAR THOU NOT; FOR I AM WITH THEE: BE NOT DISMAYED; FOR I AM THY GOD: I WILL STRENGTHEN THEE; YEA, I WILL HELP THEE; YEA, I WILL UPHOLD THEE WITH THE RIGHT HAND OF MY RIGHTEOUSNESS. BEHOLD, ALL THEY THAT…STRIVE WITH THEE SHALL PERISH-Isa 41:9-11.
   When we come before God in prayer, we need to come with a pure heart. Our conscience must not condemn us or our prayers will be hindered. The Bible exhorts us to, FLEE ALSO YOUTHFUL LUSTS: BUT FOLLOW RIGHTEOUSNESS, FAITH, CHARITY, PEACE, WITH THEM THAT CALL ON THE LORD OUT OF A PURE HEART-2 Tim 2:22. I THANK GOD, WHOM I SERVE FROM MY FOREFATHERS WITH PURE CONSCIENCE-2 Tim 1:3. THEREFORE BE CLEAR MINDED AND SELF-CONTROLLED SO THAT YOU CAN PRAY-1 Pe 4:7 (NIV). The Bible also tells us to love one another with a pure heart. SEEING YE HAVE PURIFIED YOUR SOULS IN OBEYING THE TRUTH THROUGH THE SPIRIT UNTO UNFEIGNED LOVE OF THE BRETHREN, SEE THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER WITH A PURE HEART FERVENTLY-1 Pe 1:22. Do you pray with a pure heart as Job did? NOT FOR ANY INJUSTICE IN MINE HANDS: ALSO MY PRAYER IS PURE-Job 16:17. Then as we pray with a loving and a pure heart, THE PRAYER OF THE UPRIGHT IS HIS DELIGHT-Pv 15:8. God gives us guidelines to follow. If we are obedient, our prayer life will be fruitful. The Scripture tells us, KEEP THY TONGUE FROM EVIL, AND THY LIPS FROM SPEAKING GUILE. DEPART FROM EVIL, AND DO GOOD; SEEK PEACE, AND PURSUE IT. THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE UPON THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ARE OPEN UNTO THEIR CRY. THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THEM THAT DO EVIL, TO CUT OFF THE REMEMBRANCE OF THEM FROM THE EARTH. THE RIGHTEOUS CRY, AND THE LORD HEARETH, AND DELIVERETH THEM OUT OF ALL THEIR TROUBLES. THE LORD IS NIGH UNTO THEM THAT ARE OF A BROKEN HEART; AND SAVETH SUCH AS BE OF A CONTRITE SPIRIT. MANY ARE THE AFFLICTIONS OF THE RIGHTEOUS; BUT THE LORD DELIVERETH HIM OUT OF THEM ALL-Ps 34:13-19.
   God goes on to give us more guidelines on how to pray and be heard: IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME (those that have committed themselves to the Lord), (1) SHALL HUMBLE THEMSELVES, (2) AND PRAY, (3) AND SEEK MY FACE, (4) AND TURN FROM THEIR WICKED WAYS; THEN WILL I HEAR FROM HEAVEN, AND WILL FORGIVE THEIR SIN, AND WILL HEAL THEIR LAND-2 Chr 7:14.
   If our prayer life is to blossom, then obedience to God’s Word is necessary. The Bible tells us, THOUGH HE WERE A SON (Jesus) YET LEARNED HE OBEDIENCE BY THE THINGS WHICH HE SUFFERED-Heb 5:8.

    God tells us, if we have a clear conscience, then we have confidence about our prayers. As it is written, BELOVED, IF OUR HEART CONDEMN US NOT, THEN HAVE WE CONFIDENCE TOWARD GOD. AND WHATSOEVER WE ASK, WE RECEIVE OF HIM, BECAUSE WE KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, AND DO THOSE THINGS THAT ARE PLEASING IN HIS SIGHT. AND THIS IS HIS COMMANDMENT, THAT WE SHOULD BELIEVE ON THE NAME OF HIS SON JESUS CHRIST, AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER, AS HE GAVE US COMMANDMENT-1 Jn 3:21-23. It is written, I CRIED UNTO THEE; SAVE ME, AND I SHALL KEEP THY TESTIMONIES (statutes)-Ps 119:146. Have you cried unto God to save you, and promised to follow Him and keep His commandments, yet broken your word? I HAVE SWORN, AND I WILL PERFORM IT, THAT I WILL KEEP THY RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENTS-Ps 119:106. If you have made that decision for Jesus, then keep your word and obey Him in all things. You have sworn, and now perform it. If you promised to follow Jesus but have not, then your prayers are surely hindered, and chances are you do not truly have the Holy Spirit in you. The Bible tells us, God’s solid foundation stands firm. Have you?

    The best answer we can give is to clean house. Confess all your sins to God in the name of Jesus Christ. Have a truly repentant heart. Be sorry in your heart for all your sins. Be willing to turn from all willful sin and follow Jesus. Do this so you can come before God with a pure heart and a good conscience made pure by the blood of Jesus.
   The Bible tells us, IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO FORGIVE US OUR SINS, AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. IF WE SAY THAT WE HAVE NOT SINNED, WE MAKE HIM A LIAR, AND HIS WORD IS NOT IN US-1 Jn 1:9,10. All sin is removed, forgotten. FOR AS FAR AS THE EAST IS FROM THE WEST, SO FAR HATH HE REMOVED OUR TRANSGRESSIONS FROM US-Ps 103:12. THOUGH YOUR SINS BE AS SCARLET, THEY SHALL BE AS WHITE AS SNOW; THOUGH THEY BE RED LIKE CRIMSON, THEY SHALL BE AS WOOL-Isa 1:18.
   Every time we pray, we should ask forgiveness of all conscious sins with a truly repentant heart. You should be willing to give up all known sin in your life. You have the power to do this if you are truly born-again, BECAUSE GREATER IS HE THAT IS IN YOU, THAN HE THAT IS IN THE WORLD-1Jn 4:4. The Holy Spirit (God’s Spirit that is in you) is stronger than Satan. The Bible asks us, "Have you resisted sin to the point of blood?" Jesus did, and He tells us, IF ANY MAN WILL COME AFTER ME, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF, AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY, AND FOLLOW ME-Lk 9:23.

    Sin is the abominable thing that God hates. It is written, THE THOUGHT OF FOOLISHNESS IS SIN-Pv 24:9.
   ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS IS SIN-1 Jn 5:17.
   FOR WHATSOEVER IS NOT OF FAITH IS SIN-Ro 14:23.
   BUT IF YE HAVE RESPECT TO PERSONS, YE COMMIT SIN-Ja 2:9.
   THEREFORE TO HIM THAT KNOWETH TO DO GOOD, AND DOETH IT NOT, TO HIM IT IS SIN-Ja 4:17.
   FOR SIN IS THE TRANSGRESSION OF THE LAW-1 Jn 3:4.
   AND REMEMBER ALL THE COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD, AND DO THEM; AND THAT YE SEEK NOT AFTER YOUR OWN HEART AND YOUR OWN EYES, AFTER WHICH YE USE TO GO A WHORING-Num 15:39.
   THY WORD HAVE I HID IN MINE HEART, THAT I MIGHT NOT SIN AGAINST THEE-Ps 119:11. Is this you?
   We need to understand that, THESE SIX THINGS DOTH THE LORD HATE: YEA, SEVEN ARE AN ABOMINATION UNTO HIM: A PROUD LOOK, A LYING TONGUE, AND HANDS THAT SHED INNOCENT BLOOD, AN HEART THAT DEVISETH WICKED IMAGINATIONS, FEET THAT BE SWIFT IN RUNNING TO MISCHIEF, A FALSE WITNESS THAT SPEAKETH LIES, AND HE THAT SOWETH DISCORD AMONG BRETHREN-Pv 6:16-19.
   FOOLS MAKE A MOCK AT SIN-Pv 14:9.
   HE THAT DESPISETH HIS NEIGHBOUR SINNETH-Pv 14:21.
   SUFFER NOT THY MOUTH TO CAUSE THY FLESH TO SIN-Ecc 5:6.
   THAT WHOSOEVER LOOKETH ON A WOMAN TO LUST AFTER HER HATH COMMITTED ADULTERY WITH HER ALREADY IN HIS HEART-Mt 5:28.
   WHEREFORE THINK YE EVIL IN YOUR HEARTS?-Mt 9:4.
   NOW THE WORKS OF THE FLESH ARE MANIFEST, WHICH ARE THESE; ADULTERY, FORNICATION, UNCLEANNESS LASCIVIOUSNESS, IDOLATRY, WITCHCRAFT, HATRED, VARIANCE, EMULATIONS, WRATH, STRIFE, SEDITIONS, HERESIES, ENVYINGS, MURDERS, DRUNKENNESS, REVELLINGS, AND SUCH LIKE: OF THE WHICH I TELL YOU BEFORE, AS I HAVE ALSO TOLD YOU IN TIME PAST, THAT THEY WHICH DO SUCH THINGS SHALL NOT INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF GOD-Gal 5:19-21.
   PUT TO DEATH, THEREFORE, WHATEVER BELONGS TO YOUR EARTHLY NATURE: SEXUAL IMMORALITY, IMPURITY, LUST, EVIL DESIRES AND GREED, WHICH IS IDOLATRY. BECAUSE OF THESE, THE WRATH OF GOD IS COMING. YOU USED TO WALK IN THESE WAYS, IN THE LIFE YOU ONCE LIVED. BUT NOW YOU MUST RID YOURSELVES OF ALL SUCH THINGS AS THESE: ANGER, RAGE, MALICE, SLANDER, AND FILTHY LANGUAGE FROM YOUR LIPS-Col 3:5-8 (NIV).
   ABSTAIN FROM ALL APPEARANCE OF EVIL-1 Thes 5:22.
   FOR THE LOVE OF MONEY IS A ROOT OF ALL KINDS OF EVIL. SOME PEOPLE, EAGER FOR MONEY, HAVE WANDERED FROM THE FAITH, AND PIERCED THEMSELVES WITH MANY GRIEFS-1 Tim 6:10 (NIV).
   YE HAVE NOT YET RESISTED UNTO BLOOD, STRIVING AGAINST SIN-Heb 12:4.
   AS IT IS, YOU BOAST AND BRAG. ALL SUCH BOASTING IS EVIL-Ja 4:16 (NIV).
   CONFESS YOUR FAULTS ONE TO ANOTHER, AND PRAY ONE FOR ANOTHER, THAT YE MAY BE HEALED-Ja 5:16.
   IF A MAN SAY, I LOVE GOD, AND HATETH HIS BROTHER, HE IS A LIAR: FOR HE THAT LOVETH NOT HIS BROTHER WHOM HE HATH SEEN, HOW CAN HE LOVE GOD WHOM HE HATH NOT SEEN?-1 Jn 4:20.
   AND HE THAT DWELLETH IN LOVE DWELLETH IN GOD, AND GOD IN HIM-1 Jn 4:16.
   IF YE LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS-Jn 14:15.
   HE THAT HATH MY COMMANDMENTS, AND KEEPETH THEM, HE IT IS THAT LOVETH ME-Jn 14:21.
   HE THAT LOVETH ME NOT KEEPETH NOT MY SAYINGS-Jn 14:24.
   We are warned about astrology, in Deuteronomy chapter 18. It is an abomination unto the Lord. Anyone caught worshipping the stars, planets, or the like was put to death under God’s Law. Do you ever consider astrology? It is sin. Jesus cautions us, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, WHOSOEVER COMMITTETH SIN IS THE SERVANT OF SIN-Jn 8:34.
   LET NOT SIN THEREFORE REIGN IN YOUR MORTAL BODY, THAT YE SHOULD OBEY IT IN THE LUSTS THEREOF-Ro 6:12.
   IF I REGARD INIQUITY (sin) IN MY HEART, THE LORD WILL NOT HEAR ME-Ps 66:18.
   I ACKNOWLEDGED MY SIN UNTO THEE, AND MINE INIQUITY HAVE I NOT HID. I SAID, I WILL CONFESS MY TRANSGRESSIONS UNTO THE LORD; AND THOU FORGAVEST THE INIQUITY OF MY SIN-Ps 32:5.
   HE THAT COVERETH HIS SINS SHALL NOT PROSPER: BUT WHOSO CONFESSETH AND FORSAKETH THEM SHALL HAVE MERCY-Pv 28:13.

    The Scripture tells us, IF THEY PRAY TOWARD THIS PLACE, AND CONFESS THY NAME, AND TURN FROM THEIR SIN, WHEN THOU DOST AFFLICT THEM; THEN HEAR THOU FROM HEAVEN, AND FORGIVE THE SIN OF THY SERVANTS-2 Chr 6:26,27.
   The people were to pray, saying, WE HAVE SINNED, AND HAVE DONE PERVERSELY, WE HAVE COMMITTED WICKEDNESS; AND SO RETURN UNTO THEE WITH ALL THEIR HEART, AND WITH ALL THEIR SOUL-1 Ki 8:47,48.
   Again, God’s people confess that, WE HAVE SINNED AGAINST THEE: BOTH I AND MY FATHER’S HOUSE HAVE SINNED. WE HAVE DEALT VERY CORRUPTLY AGAINST THEE, AND HAVE NOT KEPT THE COMMANDMENTS, NOR THE STATUTES, NOR THE JUDGMENTS, WHICH THOU COMMANDEDST THY SERVANT MOSES-Neh 1:6,7.
   Also we hear the same attitude in the Psalms of David, FOR I WILL DECLARE (confess) MINE INIQUITY; I WILL BE SORRY FOR MY SIN-Ps 38:18.
   LOOK UPON MINE AFFLICTION AND MY PAIN; AND FORGIVE ALL MY SINS-Ps 25:18.
   FOR THY NAME’S SAKE, O LORD, PARDON MINE INIQUITY; FOR IT IS GREAT-Ps 25:11.
   AND I PRAYED UNTO THE LORD MY GOD, AND MADE MY CONFESSION-Dan 9:4.
   HAVE MERCY UPON ME, O GOD, ACCORDING TO THY LOVING-KINDNESS: ACCORDING UNTO THE MULTITUDE OF THY TENDER MERCIES BLOT OUT MY TRANSGRESSIONS. WASH ME THOROUGHLY FROM MINE INIQUITY, AND CLEANSE ME FROM MY SIN. FOR I ACKNOWLEDGE MY TRANSGRESSIONS: AND MY SIN IS EVER BEFORE ME-Ps 51:1-3.
   God promises your sins will be forgiven if you confess them and are sincere, and obey His commands. You can trust that, FAITHFUL IS HE THAT CALLETH YOU, WHO ALSO WILL DO IT-1 Thes 5:24.
   What is the dearest thing to your heart on this earth? Is it money, your house, an automobile, your job, being someone, or just some sin you don’t want to give up? Would you be willing to give up that thing, even all things for Jesus? For until you are willing, it is a god to you, and may be stopping you from making that total commitment to Jesus. Jesus shows us that whatever is the most valuable thing you have, can be an obstacle to salvation. One asked Him, GOOD MASTER, WHAT SHALL I DO THAT I MAY INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE? AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, WHY CALLEST THOU ME GOOD? THERE IS NONE GOOD BUT ONE, THAT IS, GOD. THOU KNOWEST THE COMMANDMENTS, DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, DO NOT KILL, DO NOT STEAL, DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS, DEFRAUD NOT, HONOUR THY FATHER AND MOTHER. AND HE ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HIM, MASTER, ALL THESE HAVE I OBSERVED FROM MY YOUTH. THEN JESUS BEHOLDING HIM LOVED HIM, AND SAID UNTO HIM, ONE THING THOU LACKEST:
   GO THY WAY, SELL WHATSOEVER THOU HAST,
   AND GIVE TO THE POOR,
   AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN:
   AND COME, TAKE UP THE CROSS,
   AND FOLLOW ME. AND HE WAS SAD AT THAT SAYING, AND WENT AWAY GRIEVED: FOR HE HAD GREAT POSSESSIONS-Mk 10:17-22.
   What is holding you back from totally committing your life to Jesus? What is hindering your prayers? You cannot serve both God and Satan. You cannot love this world and hope to enter heaven. The Scripture tells us, THY HEART IS NOT RIGHT IN THE SIGHT OF GOD. REPENT THEREFORE OF THIS THY WICKEDNESS, AND PRAY GOD, IF PERHAPS THE THOUGHT OF THINE HEART MAY BE FORGIVEN THEE-Acts 8:21,22.
   LET YOUR HEART THEREFORE BE PERFECT WITH THE LORD OUR GOD, TO WALK IN HIS STATUTES, AND TO KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS-1 Ki 8:61.
   If we do not truly love God and observe His commandments, we cannot expect God to honor our prayers. I BESEECH THEE, O LORD GOD OF HEAVEN, THE GREAT AND TERRIBLE GOD, THAT KEEPETH COVENANT AND MERCY FOR THEM THAT LOVE HIM AND OBSERVE HIS COMMANDMENTS: LET THINE EAR NOW BE ATTENTIVE, AND THINE EYES OPEN, THAT THOU MAYEST HEAR THE PRAYER OF THY SERVANT-Neh 1:5,6.

16-TO HAVE OUR PRAYERS ANSWERED WE MUST HAVE FAITH

    To have our prayers answered, we should pray in God’s will. Our faith comes from God’s Word. Knowledge of how to pray according to God’s will, comes from God’s Word. You need to get into your Bible and study the Word. AND THIS I PRAY, THAT YOUR LOVE MAY ABOUND YET MORE AND MORE IN KNOWLEDGE AND IN ALL JUDGMENT (depth of insight)-Phili 1:9.
   IF YE ABIDE IN ME, AND MY WORDS ABIDE IN YOU, YE SHALL ASK WHAT YE WILL, AND IT SHALL BE DONE UNTO YOU-Jn 15:7. God just told us that His words (the Word) must abide in us in order for us to ask and receive. How can God’s words abide in you if you do not study the Bible diligently? If you want your prayers answered, you will have to begin spending time in God’s Word. Even if you must give up some sleep, begin to study God’s Word now. How much time do you spend a week listening to music or reading other books? How much stronger in faith and knowledge would you be if you spent all that time in the Bible? Zeal for God is worthless if it is not based on knowledge which comes from God’s Word. How can you understand God’s commands and righteousness without the Word? People often have false ideas about God’s righteousness and try to establish their own righteousness, because they have not studied God’s Word to show themselves approved.
   He tells us, FOR I BEAR THEM RECORD THAT THEY HAVE A ZEAL OF GOD, BUT NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE (the Word of God from the Bible). FOR THEY BEING IGNORANT OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND GOING ABOUT TO ESTABLISH THEIR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS, HAVE NOT SUBMITTED THEMSELVES UNTO THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD-Ro 10:2,3.

    God’s Word commands that you study the Word and meditate on it. If you are disobeying God’s Word (sin), your prayers may be hindered. THIS BOOK OF THE LAW SHALL NOT DEPART OUT OF THY MOUTH; BUT THOU SHALT MEDITATE THEREIN DAY AND NIGHT, THAT THOU MAYEST OBSERVE TO DO ACCORDING TO ALL THAT IS WRITTEN THEREIN: FOR THEN THOU SHALT MAKE THY WAY PROSPEROUS, AND THEN THOU SHALT HAVE GOOD SUCCESS-Jos 1:8.
   To have a good prayer life, we have seen that we must have a repentant heart and confess all our sins. Our zeal must be based on knowledge of the Word (the Bible). God’s Word must abide in us. We must be saved (born-again) or God may not hear us.

    As it is written, I WILL PAY THAT THAT I HAVE VOWED. SALVATION IS OF THE LORD-Jonah 2:9.

    The Bible tells us, WHEREFORE LAY APART ALL FILTHINESS AND SUPERFLUITY OF NAUGHTINESS, AND RECEIVE WITH MEEKNESS THE ENGRAFTED WORD, WHICH IS ABLE TO SAVE YOUR SOULS. BUT BE YE DOERS OF THE WORD, AND NOT HEARERS ONLY, DECEIVING YOUR OWN SELVES. FOR IF ANY BE A HEARER OF THE WORD, AND NOT A DOER, HE IS LIKE UNTO A MAN BEHOLDING HIS NATURAL FACE IN A GLASS-Ja 1:21-23. Do you go to church and read your Bible (listen to the Word), but neglect to do it? The Bible commands us to be doers of the Word. This includes obeying the commandments as well as witnessing for Jesus. Witnessing is a command to born-again believers. If you are ashamed of Jesus, the Bible tells us He will be ashamed of you at the judgment. Is this you? By not witnessing for Him, are you denying Him? By not letting your light shine before men, are you denying Jesus? The Bible tells us we deny Him by our actions. You may study the Word, go to church, give money to the church, and you may even do your best to obey the Ten Commandments; yet if you are not letting your light shine (the hope you have in you of salvation, which is Jesus), then you may be on your way to hell. If you will not work for Jesus now, then you may not have the chance to work for Him in heaven. While works do not save you, a lack of works will condemn you. For by their fruits ye shall know them; and faith prompts you to serve God. Serving God may be said to be evidence of faith. Is this one reason why your prayers may be hindered? Remember, letting your light for Jesus shine before men is a command for "you." It is not just a command for preachers; it is for you also if you truly love God. Time after time, God gives us chances to witness. Do you witness to your relatives, neighbors, and people at work? The person that asked you for directions, did you witness to him? The store clerk that helped you, did you witness to him? Do you merely listen to the Word and not obey it? Are you shy about witnessing? Are you afraid or embarrassed? It all comes down to the same thing; you disobeyed God’s Word. You have never yet made that total uncompromising commitment to Jesus. Isn’t it time you did? Do not expect your prayers to be answered while you are living in disobedience to God. Tell these people that God loves them so much that He sent His only begotten Son to die for their sins.
   Do not be as a certain Hindu girl that when she went to a Christian church, she would take off the "Hindu" spot on her forehead, but when she went home to her Hindu husband, she put it back on.

    How much time do you spend praising Jesus? How often do you have the words, "Praise Jesus" on your lips? How often do you praise Jesus in church? "Well," you may say, "Our church does not praise Him so openly." Perhaps, this is one of your problems. Listen to God’s Word speak to your heart.
   I WILL PRAISE THEE, O LORD, WITH MY WHOLE HEART; I WILL SHEW FORTH ALL THY MARVELLOUS WORKS-Ps 9:1.
   I WILL PRAISE THY NAME, O LORD; FOR IT IS GOOD-Ps 54:6.
   I CRIED OUT (prayed) TO HIM WITH MY MOUTH; HIS PRAISE WAS ON MY TONGUE-Ps 66:17 (NIV).
   Is the praise of Jesus on your tongue when you pray? If not, are your prayers being hindered for this reason? Are you embarrassed to praise Him outwardly in church and in front of other people? We see this is a command from God.
   LET THE HEAVEN AND EARTH PRAISE HIM, THE SEAS, AND EVERY THING THAT MOVETH THEREIN-Ps 69:34.
   Are you obeying ALL His commands or just the ones you want to?
   The Scripture says, LET MY MOUTH BE FILLED WITH THY PRAISE AND WITH THY HONOUR ALL THE DAY-Ps 71:8.
   Do you, LIFT UP YOUR HANDS IN THE SANCTUARY AND BLESS THE LORD?-Ps 134:2.
   PRAISE YE THE LORD. PRAISE YE THE LORD FROM THE HEAVENS: PRAISE HIM IN THE HEIGHTS. PRAISE YE HIM, ALL HIS ANGELS: PRAISE YE HIM, ALL HIS HOSTS. PRAISE YE HIM, SUN AND MOON: PRAISE HIM, ALL YE STARS OF LIGHT. PRAISE HIM, YE HEAVENS OF HEAVENS, AND YE WATERS THAT BE ABOVE THE HEAVENS. LET THEM PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD: FOR HE COMMANDED, AND THEY WERE CREATED-Ps 148:1-5.
   BOTH YOUNG MEN, AND MAIDENS; OLD MEN, AND CHILDREN: LET THEM PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD: FOR HIS NAME ALONE IS EXCELLENT; HIS GLORY IS ABOVE THE EARTH AND HEAVEN. HE ALSO EXALTETH THE HORN OF HIS PEOPLE, THE PRAISE OF ALL HIS SAINTS; EVEN OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, A PEOPLE NEAR UNTO HIM. PRAISE YE THE LORD-Ps 148:12-14.
   PRAISE YE THE LORD. PRAISE GOD IN HIS SANCTUARY (do you praise God openly in your church?): PRAISE HIM IN THE FIRMAMENT OF HIS POWER. PRAISE HIM FOR HIS MIGHTY ACTS: PRAISE HIM ACCORDING TO HIS EXCELLENT GREATNESS. PRAISE HIM WITH THE SOUND OF THE TRUMPET: PRAISE HIM WITH THE PSALTERY AND HARP. PRAISE HIM WITH THE TIMBREL AND DANCE: PRAISE HIM WITH STRINGED INSTRUMENTS AND ORGANS. PRAISE HIM UPON THE LOUD CYMBALS: PRAISE HIM UPON THE HIGH SOUNDING CYMBALS. LET EVERY THING THAT HATH BREATH PRAISE THE LORD. PRAISE YE THE LORD-Ps 150:1-6.
   AND WHEN HE WAS COME NIGH, EVEN NOW AT THE DESCENT OF THE MOUNT OF OLIVES, THE WHOLE MULTITUDE OF THE DISCIPLES BEGAN TO REJOICE AND PRAISE GOD WITH A LOUD VOICE FOR ALL THE MIGHTY WORKS THAT THEY HAD SEEN; SAYING, BLESSED BE THE KING THAT COMETH IN THE NAME OF THE LORD: PEACE IN HEAVEN, AND GLORY IN THE HIGHEST. AND SOME OF THE PHARISEES FROM AMONG THE MULTITUDE SAID UNTO HIM, MASTER REBUKE THY DISCIPLES. (Which is your church: the one that is quiet, or the one that is praising Jesus?) Which are you?
   Jesus ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO THEM, I TELL YOU THAT, IF THESE SHOULD HOLD THEIR PEACE, THE STONES WOULD IMMEDIATELY CRY OUT-Lk 19:37-40.
   Do you have this kind of joy in the Lord? As you can see, we need to have praise in our hearts, in our mouths, and in our prayers. WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH ON HIM SHALL NOT BE ASHAMED-Ro 10:11.

    How often do you give thanks to God for what you have? Do you give thanks for everything you eat? Do you give God thanks every day, in good times and bad, for the trials and temptations that come upon you as well as for the blessings you have? Do you have a thankful heart toward God no matter your situation is? Do you let God know it in prayer daily? Repentance, praise, and thanks, should be part of your prayers.
   As it is written, BUT IN EVERY THING BY PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION WITH THANKSGIVING LET YOUR REQUESTS BE MADE KNOWN UNTO GOD-Phili 4:6.
   O GIVE THANKS UNTO THE LORD; FOR HE IS GOOD: FOR HIS MERCY ENDURETH FOR EVER. O GIVE THANKS UNTO THE GOD OF GODS: FOR HIS MERCY ENDURETH FOR EVER. O GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD OF LORDS; FOR HIS MERCY ENDURETH FOR EVER-Ps 136:1-3.
   Do you give thanks during the times of your greatest distress? Could you pray with a voice of thanksgiving if you were in the belly of a fish?
   Jonah did. As it is written, THEN JONAH PRAYED UNTO THE LORD HIS GOD OUT OF THE FISH’S BELLY, AND SAID, I CRIED BY REASON OF MINE AFFLICTION UNTO THE LORD, AND HE HEARD ME; OUT OF THE BELLY OF HELL CRIED I, AND THOU HEARDEST MY VOICE. BUT I WILL SACRIFICE UNTO THEE WITH THE VOICE OF THANKSGIVING; I WILL PAY THAT THAT I HAVE VOWED-Jonah 2:1,2,9.
   Pray unto the Lord with a voice of thanks in all circumstances. Paul said, I…CEASE NOT TO GIVE THANKS FOR YOU, MAKING MENTION OF YOU IN MY PRAYERS-Eph 1:15,16.
   I THANK MY GOD UPON EVERY REMEMBRANCE OF YOU-Phili 1:3.
   WE GIVE THANKS TO GOD ALWAYS FOR YOU ALL-1 Thes 1:2.
   WE GIVE THANKS TO GOD AND THE FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST-Col 1:3.
   AND WHEN HE HAD THUS SPOKEN, HE TOOK BREAD, AND GAVE THANKS TO GOD IN PRESENCE OF THEM ALL-Acts 27:35.
   Do you give thanks for your bread and food in the presence of others? Are you embarrassed? Are you ungrateful? Is there joy and rejoicing in your prayers? For we are to REJOICE EVERMORE-1 Thes 5:16.
   Be joyful always. ALWAYS IN EVERY PRAYER OF MINE FOR YOU All MAKING REQUEST WITH JOY-Phili 1:4.
   Always pray with joy. If you follow these guidelines from the Bible, your prayer life should blossom and grow.

20-WHEN YOU PRAY, ALWAYS PRAY IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST

    "Christ" is the Greek word for "Messiah." Jesus is His name. There is power in the name of Jesus, which is above all names. As it is written, AND WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME, THAT WILL I DO, THAT THE FATHER MAY BE GLORIFIED IN THE SON-Jn 14:13.
   IF YE SHALL ASK ANY THING IN MY NAME, I WILL DO IT-Jn 14:14.
   OUR HELP IS IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, WHO MADE HEAVEN AND EARTH-Ps 124:8.
   FOR WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED-Ro 10:13.
   WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE WILL GIVE IT YOU. HITHERTO HAVE YE ASKED NOTHING IN MY NAME: ASK, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE, THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL-Jn 16:23-24.
   AT THAT DAY YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME: AND I SAY NOT UNTO YOU, THAT I WILL PRAY THE FATHER FOR YOU-Jn 16:26. THAT WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK OF THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE MAY GIVE IT YOU-Jn 15:16.

    Do you believe with great faith that when you pray God will answer you? The Scriptures tell us of people with no faith, little faith, and faith like a wave. In order to get prayers answered, you need faith. Some believe you can pray for faith. This is not true. Faith comes in proportion to how much you read, study, meditate, hear, and understand the Word of God, and act on it. If you go to church three times a week, yet the preacher only uses 3 or 4 verses each time, your faith may grow about 12 verses a week. If you read 500 verses a week, your faith will grow 500 verses a week (if you understand and do the Word). The Word needs to be implanted in your spirit. Stories the preacher tells, although nice, will not increase your faith. Only God’s Word will. The Bible, as we have read previously, commands us to study and meditate on the Word. We are to put it in our hearts and be a doer of the Word.
   NOW FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR, THE EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN-Heb 11:1. Did you hear that? Faith is substance. It is faith that causes things to happen. Because THROUGH FAITH WE UNDERSTAND THAT THE WORLDS WERE FRAMED BY THE WORD OF GOD, SO THAT THINGS WHICH ARE SEEN WERE NOT MADE OF THINGS WHICH DO APPEAR-Heb 11:3. SO THEN FAITH COMETH BY HEARING, AND HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD-Ro 10:17. As we have seen, faith comes only by God’s Word.
   We also must act on the Word. FOR AS THE BODY WITHOUT THE SPIRIT IS DEAD, SO FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD ALSO-Ja 2:26. EVEN SO FAITH, IF IT HATH NOT WORKS, IS DEAD, BEING ALONE-Ja 2:17. YEA, A MAN MAY SAY, THOU HAST FAITH, AND I HAVE WORKS: SHOW ME THY FAITH WITHOUT THY WORKS, AND I WILL SHOW THEE MY FAITH BY MY WORKS-Ja 2:18. Again, the Scriptures ask, BUT WILT THOU KNOW, O VAIN MAN, THAT FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD? WAS NOT ABRAHAM OUR FATHER JUSTIFIED BY WORKS, WHEN HE HAD OFFERED ISAAC HIS SON UPON THE ALTAR? SEEST THOU HOW FAITH WROUGHT WITH HIS WORKS, AND BY WORKS WAS FAITH MADE PERFECT?-Ja 2:20-22. BUT BE YE DOERS OF THE WORD, AND NOT HEARERS ONLY, DECEIVING YOUR OWN SELVES-Ja 1:22.
   LOOKING UNTO JESUS THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH-Heb 12:2.
   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. BE NOT WISE IN THINE OWN EYES: FEAR THE LORD, AND DEPART FROM EVIL-Pv 3:5-7.
   We must plant the Word in our spirit, and do it. BUT HE THAT DOETH TRUTH COMETH TO THE LIGHT-Jn 3:21.
   Believing (faith) must be in our heart, not our head. So LET THE WORD OF CHRIST DWELL IN YOU RICHLY IN ALL WISDOM-Col 3:16.
   IF YE ABIDE IN ME, AND MY WORDS ABIDE IN YOU, YE SHALL ASK WHAT YE WILL, AND IT SHALL BE DONE UNTO YOU-Jn 15:7. As has been said, how much faith you have is determined by how much faith food (the Word) you put in, how much you understand it with your heart, and how much you act on it or do it.
   The Bible also tells us, FOR WHATSOEVER IS NOT OF FAITH IS SIN-Ro 14:23. FOR WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT-2 Cor 5:7. THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH-Gal 3:11.
   The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. As the Scripture declares, FOR IN JESUS CHRIST NEITHER CIRCUMCISION AVAILETH ANY THING, NOR UNCIRCUMCISION; BUT FAITH WHICH WORKETH BY LOVE-Gal 5:6.
   IF I HAVE THE GIFT OF PROPHECY AND CAN FATHOM ALL MYSTERIES AND ALL KNOWLEDGE, AND IF I HAVE A FAITH THAT CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS, BUT HAVE NOT LOVE, I AM NOTHING-1 Cor 13:2 (NIV). AND THOUGH I HAVE ALL FAITH, SO THAT I COULD REMOVE MOUNTAINS, AND HAVE NOT CHARITY, I AM NOTHING-1 Cor 13:2. We need to sow the Word into our hearts. As a result of faith, works should come forth, combined with love.
   Faith grows out of the Word, not from praying for it. Prayer does not cause faith to work. Faith causes prayer to work. When the heart is not filled with the Word of God, the substance of faith will not be there. The words of our mouth will not be backed up by the faith from our heart. God’s Word cannot fail. For thus it is written, WHERE IS BOASTING THEN? IT IS EXCLUDED. BY WHAT LAW? OF WORKS? NAY: BUT BY THE LAW OF FAITH-Ro 3:27. BUT WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE HIM: FOR HE THAT COMETH TO GOD MUST BELIEVE THAT HE IS, AND THAT HE IS A REWARDER OF THEM THAT DILIGENTLY SEEK HIM-Heb 11:6. As covered previously, that faith needs to be centered in Jesus Christ.

    Jesus covers faith and prayer in the Gospels, as we read, NOW IN THE MORNING AS HE RETURNED INTO THE CITY, HE HUNGERED. AND WHEN HE SAW A FIG TREE IN THE WAY, HE CAME TO IT, AND FOUND NOTHING THEREON, BUT LEAVES ONLY, AND SAID UNTO IT, LET NO FRUIT GROW ON THEE HENCEFORWARD FOR EVER. AND PRESENTLY THE FIG TREE WITHERED AWAY. AND WHEN THE DISCIPLES SAW IT, THEY MARVELLED, SAYING, HOW SOON IS THE FIG TREE WITHERED AWAY! JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO THEM, VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, IF YE HAVE FAITH, AND DOUBT NOT, YE SHALL NOT ONLY DO THIS WHICH IS DONE TO THE FIG TREE, BUT ALSO IF YE SHALL SAY UNTO THIS MOUNTAIN, BE THOU REMOVED, AND BE THOU CAST INTO THE SEA; IT SHALL BE DONE. AND ALL THINGS, WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK IN PRAYER, BELIEVING, YE SHALL RECEIVE-Mt 21:18-22. IF THOU CANST BELIEVE, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE TO HIM THAT BELIEVETH-Mk 9:23. AND STRAIGHTWAY THE FATHER OF THE CHILD CRIED OUT, AND SAID WITH TEARS, LORD, I BELIEVE; HELP THOU MINE UNBELIEF-Mk 9:24.
   IF YE HAD FAITH AS A GRAIN OF MUSTARD SEED, YE MIGHT SAY UNTO THIS SYCAMINE TREE, BE THOU PLUCKED UP BY THE ROOT, AND BE THOU PLANTED IN THE SEA; AND IT SHOULD OBEY YOU-Lk 17:6.
   FOR VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, IF YE HAVE FAITH AS A GRAIN OF MUSTARD SEED, YE SHALL SAY UNTO THIS MOUNTAIN, REMOVE HENCE TO YONDER PLACE; AND IT SHALL REMOVE; AND NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE UNTO YOU-Mt 17:20.
   FOR VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT WHOSOEVER SHALL SAY UNTO THIS MOUNTAIN, BE THOU REMOVED, AND BE THOU CAST INTO THE SEA; AND SHALL NOT DOUBT IN HIS HEART, BUT SHALL BELIEVE THAT THOSE THINGS WHICH HE SAITH SHALL COME TO PASS; HE SHALL HAVE WHATSOEVER HE SAITH. THEREFORE I SAY UNTO YOU, WHAT THINGS SOEVER YE DESIRE, WHEN YE PRAY, BELIEVE THAT YE RECEIVE THEM, AND YE SHALL HAVE THEM-Mk 11:23,24.

    Faith can increase and grow, or it can decrease. Satan is constantly trying to take the Word from your heart. It is written, WHEN YOUR FAITH IS INCREASED-2 Cor 10:15.
   I HAVE NOT FOUND SO GREAT FAITH, NO, NOT IN ISRAEL-Mt 8:10.
   AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, RECEIVE THY SIGHT: THY FAITH HATH SAVED (healed) THEE-Lk 18:42.
   THE SAME HEARD PAUL SPEAK: WHO STEDFASTLY BEHOLDING HIM, AND PERCEIVING THAT HE HAD FAITH TO BE HEALED, SAID WITH A LOUD VOICE, STAND UPRIGHT ON THY FEET. AND HE LEAPED AND WALKED-Acts 14:9,10.
   IS ANY SICK AMONG YOU? LET HIM CALL FOR THE ELDERS OF THE CHURCH; AND LET THEM PRAY OVER HIM, ANOINTING HIM WITH OIL IN THE NAME OF THE LORD: AND THE PRAYER OF FAITH SHALL SAVE THE SICK, AND THE LORD SHALL RAISE HIM UP; AND IF HE HAVE COMMITTED SINS, THEY SHALL BE FORGIVEN HIM. 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-Ja 5:14-16.
   Jesus came into His own country, yet HE DID NOT MANY MIGHTY WORKS THERE BECAUSE OF THEIR UNBELIEF-Mt 13:58. Just consider that because of a lack of faith, Jesus did not do many miracles. God wants our faith to be perfect and complete, KNOWING THIS, THAT THE TRYING OF YOUR FAITH WORKETH PATIENCE. BUT LET PATIENCE HAVE HER PERFECT WORK, THAT YE MAY BE PERFECT AND ENTIRE, WANTING NOTHING-Ja 1:3,4.
   THAT THE TRIAL OF YOUR FAITH, BEING MUCH MORE PRECIOUS THAN OF GOLD THAT PERISHETH, THOUGH IT BE TRIED WITH FIRE, MIGHT BE FOUND UNTO PRAISE AND HONOUR AND GLORY AT THE APPEARING OF JESUS CHRIST-1 Pe 1:7.
   THEREIN IS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD REVEALED FROM FAITH TO FAITH: AS IT IS WRITTEN, THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH-Ro 1:17.
   BUT YE, BELOVED, BUILDING UP YOURSELVES ON YOUR MOST HOLY FAITH, PRAYING IN THE HOLY GHOST-Jude 20.
   NOW THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH: BUT IF ANY MAN DRAW BACK, MY SOUL SHALL HAVE NO PLEASURE IN HIM-Heb 10:38.
   BUT THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY HIS FAITH-Hab 2:4.
   In our prayers, faith is the key. It is substance. We are to ASK IN FAITH, NOTHING WAVERING. FOR HE THAT WAVERETH IS LIKE A WAVE OF THE SEA DRIVEN WITH THE WIND AND TOSSED. FOR LET NOT THAT MAN THINK THAT HE SHALL RECEIVE ANYTHING OF THE LORD. A DOUBLE MINDED MAN IS UNSTABLE IN ALL HIS WAYS-Ja 1:6-8.
   God’s will for us is that we study the Word and show ourselves approved. We do this so THAT WE HENCEFORTH BE NO MORE CHILDREN, TOSSED TO AND FRO, AND CARRIED ABOUT WITH EVERY WIND OF DOCTRINE, BY THE SLEIGHT OF MEN, AND CUNNING CRAFTINESS, WHEREBY THEY LIE IN WAIT TO DECEIVE; BUT SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE, MAY GROW UP INTO HIM IN ALL THINGS, WHICH IS THE HEAD, EVEN CHRIST-Eph 4:14,15.
   LET ME NOT BE ASHAMED, LET NOT MINE ENEMIES TRIUMPH OVER ME. YEA, LET NONE THAT WAIT ON THEE BE ASHAMED-Ps 25:2,3.
   We must pray in faith, as David prayed. MY VOICE SHALT THOU HEAR IN THE MORNING, O LORD (faith); IN THE MORNING WILL I DIRECT MY PRAYER UNTO THEE, AND WILL LOOK UP (and wait in expectation) (faith)-Ps 5:3.
   FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH, LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE, WHEREUNTO THOU ART ALSO CALLED, AND HAST PROFESSED A GOOD PROFESSION BEFORE MANY WITNESSES-1 Tim 6:12.
   FOLLOW AFTER RIGHTEOUSNESS, GODLINESS, FAITH, LOVE, PATIENCE, MEEKNESS-1 Tim 6:11. Once again, we see faith. It is never faith in ourselves. It is faith in Jesus. It is faith in the power of God. As it is written, AND THAT BY HIS POWER HE MAY FULFILL EVERY GOOD PURPOSE OF YOURS AND EVERY ACT PROMPTED BY YOUR FAITH-2 Thes 1:11 (NIV). It is the faith that will prompt God’s power to action.
   Yet we must be careful not to err. We read of those WHO CONCERNING THE TRUTH HAVE ERRED, SAYING THAT THE RESURRECTION IS PAST ALREADY; AND OVERTHROW THE FAITH OF SOME-2 Tim 2:18.

    Faith, it is the substance of things hoped for. We pray with words of faith to get results. The words of faith and actions of faith result in the manifestation of God’s power. WE HAVING THE SAME SPIRIT OF FAITH, ACCORDING AS IT IS WRITTEN, I BELIEVED, AND THEREFORE HAVE I SPOKEN; WE ALSO BELIEVE, AND THEREFORE SPEAK-2 Cor 4:13.
   Jesus told us in Mk 11:23-THAT WHOSOEVER SHALL SAY UNTO THIS MOUNTAIN. Again, we see the spoken Word.
   FOR OF THE ABUNDANCE OF THE HEART HIS MOUTH SPEAKETH-Lk 6:45.
   In Lk 17:6, Jesus again tells us, YE MIGHT SAY UNTO THIS SYCAMINE TREE. The Word has power beyond our understanding. God’s Word tells us to guard every word we say, and He warns us THAT EVERY IDLE WORD THAT MEN SHALL SPEAK, THEY SHALL GIVE ACCOUNT THEREOF IN THE DAY OF JUDGMENT-Mt 12:36.
   THE WORD IS NIGH THEE, EVEN IN THY MOUTH, AND IN THY HEART: THAT IS, THE WORD OF FAITH, WHICH WE PREACH-Ro 10:8.
   IF ANY MAN AMONG YOU SEEM TO BE RELIGIOUS, AND BRIDLETH NOT HIS TONGUE, BUT DECEIVETH HIS OWN HEART, THIS MAN’S RELIGION IS VAIN-Ja 1:26. With words Jesus raised the dead, healed the sick, and stilled the sea. Let us remember, faith is the substance that we need in our prayers to get an answer from God. If you want a good prayer life, you must study the Word and combine it with works; or it may be said, be a doer of the Word. NOW FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR, THE EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN-Heb 11:1.

    The Scriptures tell us, BUT GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. FOR WE BROUGHT NOTHING INTO THIS WORLD, AND IT IS CERTAIN WE CAN CARRY NOTHING OUT. AND HAVING FOOD AND RAIMENT LET US BE THEREWITH CONTENT-1 Tim 6:6-8. YE LUST, AND HAVE NOT: YE KILL, AND DESIRE TO HAVE, AND CANNOT OBTAIN: YE FIGHT AND WAR, YET YE HAVE NOT, BECAUSE YE ASK NOT. YE ASK, AND RECEIVE NOT, BECAUSE YE ASK AMISS, THAT YE MAY CONSUME IT UPON YOUR LUSTS. YE ADULTERERS AND ADULTERESSES, KNOW YE NOT THAT THE FRIENDSHIP OF THE WORLD IS ENMITY WITH GOD? WHOSOEVER THEREFORE WILL BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD IS THE ENEMY OF GOD-Ja 4:2-4.
   GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD, BUT GIVETH GRACE UNTO THE HUMBLE-Ja 4:6.
   ASK, AND IT SHALL BE GIVEN YOU; SEEK, AND YE SHALL FIND; KNOCK, AND IT SHALL BE OPENED UNTO YOU: FOR EVERY ONE THAT ASKETH RECEIVETH; AND HE THAT SEEKETH FINDETH; AND TO HIM THAT KNOCKETH IT SHALL BE OPENED. OR WHAT MAN IS THERE OF YOU, WHOM IF HIS SON ASK BREAD, WILL HE GIVE HIM A STONE?…IF YE THEN, BEING EVIL, KNOW HOW TO GIVE GOOD GIFTS UNTO YOUR CHILDREN, HOW MUCH MORE SHALL YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN GIVE GOOD THINGS TO THEM THAT ASK HIM?-Mt 7:7-9,11. THEREFORE ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER YE WOULD THAT MEN SHOULD DO TO YOU, DO YE EVEN SO TO THEM: FOR THIS IS THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS-Mt 7:12. IF A SON…ASK A FISH, WILL HE FOR A FISH GIVE HIM A SERPENT? OR IF HE SHALL ASK AN EGG, WILL HE OFFER HIM A SCORPION?-Lk 11:11-12.
   BEHOLD, I STAND AT THE DOOR, AND KNOCK: IF ANY MAN HEAR MY VOICE, AND OPEN THE DOOR, I WILL COME IN TO HIM, AND WILL SUP WITH HIM, AND HE WITH ME-Rev 3:20. The Bible is stressing that we need to ASK for those things we are in need of, to make our requests and supplications known to God.
   As it is written, THEN SAID MARTHA UNTO JESUS, LORD, IF THOU HADST BEEN HERE, MY BROTHER HAD NOT DIED. BUT I KNOW, THAT EVEN NOW, WHATSOEVER THOU WILT ASK OF GOD, GOD WILL GIVE IT THEE. JESUS SAITH UNTO HER, THY BROTHER SHALL RISE AGAIN. MARTHA SAITH UNTO HIM, I KNOW THAT HE SHALL RISE AGAIN IN THE RESURRECTION AT THE LAST DAY. JESUS SAID UNTO HER, I AM THE RESURRECTION, AND THE LIFE. HE THAT BELIEVETH IN ME, THOUGH HE WERE DEAD, YET SHALL HE LIVE: AND WHOSOEVER LIVETH AND BELIEVETH IN ME SHALL NEVER DIE. BELIEVEST THOU THIS? SHE SAITH UNTO HIM, YEA LORD: I BELIEVE THAT THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, WHICH SHOULD COME INTO THE WORLD-Jn 11:21-27. THEN WHEN MARY WAS COME WHERE JESUS WAS, AND SAW HIM, SHE FELL DOWN AT HIS FEET, SAYING UNTO HIM, LORD, IF THOU HADST BEEN HERE, MY BROTHER HAD NOT DIED. WHEN JESUS THEREFORE SAW HER WEEPING, AND THE JEWS ALSO WEEPING WHICH CAME WITH HER, HE GROANED IN THE SPIRIT, AND WAS TROUBLED. AND SAID, WHERE HAVE YE LAID HIM? THEY SAID UNTO HIM, LORD, COME AND SEE. JESUS WEPT. THEN SAID THE JEWS, BEHOLD HOW HE LOVED HIM! AND SOME OF THEM SAID, COULD NOT THIS MAN, WHICH OPENED THE EYES OF THE BLIND, HAVE CAUSED THAT EVEN THIS MAN SHOULD NOT HAVE DIED? JESUS THEREFORE AGAIN GROANING IN HIMSELF COMETH TO THE GRAVE. IT WAS A CAVE, AND A STONE LAY UPON IT. JESUS SAID, TAKE YE AWAY THE STONE. MARTHA, THE SISTER OF HIM THAT WAS DEAD, SAITH UNTO HIM, LORD, BY THIS TIME HE STINKETH: FOR HE HATH BEEN DEAD FOUR DAYS. JESUS SAITH UNTO HER, SAID I NOT UNTO THEE, THAT, IF THOU WOULDEST BELIEVE, THOU SHOULDEST SEE THE GLORY OF GOD? THEN THEY TOOK AWAY THE STONE FROM THE PLACE WHERE THE DEAD WAS LAID. AND JESUS LIFTED UP HIS EYES, AND SAID, FATHER, I THANK THEE THAT THOU HAST HEARD ME. AND I KNEW THAT THOU HEAREST ME ALWAYS: BUT BECAUSE OF THE PEOPLE WHICH STAND BY I SAID IT, THAT THEY MAY BELIEVE THAT THOU HAST SENT ME. AND WHEN HE THUS HAD SPOKEN, HE CRIED WITH A LOUD VOICE, LAZARUS, COME FORTH. AND HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH, BOUND HAND AND FOOT WITH GRAVECLOTHES: AND HIS FACE WAS BOUND ABOUT WITH A NAPKIN. JESUS SAITH UNTO THEM, LOOSE HIM, AND LET HIM GO-Jn 11:32-44.
   We note two important things here: first faith, second ask. "IF THOU WOULDEST BELIEVE."
   Jesus also tells us, HITHERTO HAVE YE ASKED NOTHING IN MY NAME: ASK, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE-Jn 16:24. Again we see, we must ask. We must make our needs known to God, even though He already knows them.

• FAITH THAT THE FATHER WOULD DO WHAT JESUS ASKED

• FAITH THAT THE DEAD IN CHRIST SHALL RISE AGAIN

• FAITH THAT JESUS IS THE RESURRECTION AND LIFE

• FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST (BELIEVE IN JESUS)

• FAITH THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN JESUS SHALL NEVER DIE

• FAITH THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, WHICH SHOULD COME INTO THE WORLD

Continue to Part-2