Why Do We Pray? 3 Big Reasons

Prayer is a deeply personal and powerful practice that has been part of human civilization for centuries. But why do we pray? What drives us to turn to God and seek guidance, support, and comfort? In this article, we explore three big reasons why prayer holds such significance in our lives. From finding inner peace and strength to seeking connection with God, prayer serves as a powerful tool for navigating the ups and downs of life. Join me as we delve into the profound impact of prayer and discover how it can provide solace, inspiration, and a sense of purpose in our daily lives.

We are looking for help

We all find ourselves coming to God when we need something and He does not discourage it. When we do not know what to do we are instructed to ask for wisdom. James 1:5 tells us, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”(NASB1995) Ask for guidance in life choices and situations you are not certain how to navigate. God will give you the wisdom to make the choices you need to.

In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, God commands us to pray and make our requests known. “In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6 (American Standard Version) “In nothing be anxious” tells us to not worry or fret about anything. I always look for peace of mind in the decisions I make. So when I find a sense of peace, I move forward in confidence. When you are in God’s will, He will equip you to do what must be done.

We pray to be in His will for our lives

God has promised that when we ask Him for anything within His plan He will give us what we ask for. God hears the prayers of all believers and He answers according to His will.

“14 This is the [remarkable degree of] confidence which we [as believers are entitled to] have before Him: that if we ask anything according to His will, [that is, consistent with His plan and purpose] He hears us. 15 And if we know [for a fact, as indeed we do] that He hears and listens to us in whatever we ask, we [also] know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted to us] the requests which we have asked from Him.”

1 John 5:14-15 (AMP)

Prayers for forgiveness, to know Him better and how to live for Him, the strength to obey Him, and the ability to share the Gospel will all be answered. These requests build a relationship with God and glorify Him. Our purpose is to glorify Him.

As we pray for these things we notice that our wants look different. We draw our pleasure and happiness from a different source. The things we can get in this world are not what we desire the most. Relationships with God and others will bring more joy.

He has promised to provide for our needs as we live for His purpose. In Matthew chapter 6 Jesus said not to worry about what we will eat, drink, or wear because God knows our needs. He said to pursue God and live right, according to Him, and these things will come.

We want a relationship with God

Prayer is more than just asking things of God. It is how we communicate with God. Without communication, relationships suffer. Our relationship with God suffers when we don’t share with him. We can talk to God about anything. Jesus lived on earth and was tempted in every way. He understands us.

“14 Inasmuch then as we [believers] have a great High Priest who has [already ascended and] passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession [of faith and cling tenaciously to our absolute trust in Him as Savior]. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. 16 Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”

Hebrews 4:14-16 (Amplified Bible)

Before Jesus people went to the high priest to ask God for their petitions and for forgiveness. After Jesus came and we now have the Holy Spirit, we are encouraged to talk to God about everything. That is why He sent Jesus to live among humans for a time and then provide a way for us to talk to Him directly. Jesus died so we could have a close relationship directly with God and not have to go through a high priest. Nothing is too small to go to Him about.

Conclusion

The purpose of prayer is to communicate with God and to receive His direction and help. You can pray anytime you feel the need to talk to Him. There is no right or wrong time. Prayer does not need to be confined to religious services. You can pray wherever you are and whenever you feel led to do so. As you pray, you can focus on the Scripture or a passage from a spiritual book that you want to read or discuss with God. You can also share your feelings and needs. Don’t be afraid to be open about what you need. God is faithful, and he will listen to your needs as well as give you the grace to meet them.

The best part about praying is that it is a relationship you can have with a perfect and loving God. He is always available to hear you and provide guidance during difficult and challenging times. Even if you don’t receive an answer right away, don’t be discouraged. Know that God is in control, and He will do the best thing for you in the end.

Prayer is important because it helps you to connect with God and strengthens your relationship with Him. Sometimes we may feel overwhelmed by our problems, or unable to cope with life’s ups and downs. Prayer can help you gain perspective and find comfort and hope again.