Prayer is communication with God. It can be done individually or in community. (Acts 12:5, 12) It can be used to present requests for ourselves, for others, for the confession of sin, adoration, praise and thanksgiving. It is not used to inform God. (Matthew 6:8) The ultimate purpose of prayer is the glory of God. (Revelation 5:8, 8:2-4)

In order to receive certain things, we must ask God for them. (John 16:24; Luke 11:9-10; James 4:2) The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us when we do not know what to pray. (Romans 8:26) The Holy Spirit keeps our prayers within the will of God. (Romans 8:27) Christ as our mediator makes our direct approach to God through prayer possible. (Hebrews 7:23-28; 1 Timothy 2:5) Our prayers are on the authority of Jesus Christ (in my name). (John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23-24; Ephesians 5:20)

Prayer is to be the pattern of the Christian’s life. (Colossians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:17) Prayer changes things–not God. As such, at times, prayer may go unanswered because our prayers may not line up with God’s will, or His timing. (Genesis 37:23-36, 50:20; Luke 22:42; Galatians 4:4; James 4:3) We should be persistent in prayer when it is unanswered. (Luke 18:1-8; 2 Corinthians 12:8; Colossians 4:2)