What is prayer?
There are several Bible verses about prayer that give us insight on what prayer is, how to pray, and how God responds to prayer. We're going to share some important scriptures on prayer that any believer should know.
To put it simply, prayer is a conversation between you and God.
Let's put it in perspective: God is the Creator of the ever-expanding universe. Astronomers estimate there are 100 billion stars just in the Milky Way galaxy, and there are billions of galaxies! The power and glory of God is impossible to fully comprehend.
But guess what? That Creator -- our God -- wants to spend time with you. He wants to listen to you. He wants to speak with you. You! The same God Who created the heavens and the earth wants to hear what's on your mind and in your heart. And, He wants to give you wisdom, direction, and peace.
This miraculous gift is prayer.
Bible Verses on When to Pray
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
-Philippians 4:6-7
This is one of the best Bible verses about prayer, because it reminds us that God is there for all of our circumstances. No matter what situation you're going through, you can talk to God about it. Remember, He is big enough to handle your questions, fears, grief, doubts, or anger. Bring everything to God, and He will give you peace beyond anything you can understand.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
-1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Have you ever wondered what God's will is for your life? Here it is! This scripture shows us three things we should always be doing: rejoice, pray, and give thanks. This is God's will for us.
Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.
-James 5:13
Whether you are happy or in trouble, keep your heart and mind set on Jesus. He wants to be part of your entire life - the good and the bad. Keep your focus on Him.
Related Post: 8 Ways to Pray Throughout the Day
Bible Verses That Say God Hears You When You Pray
Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you
-Jeremiah 29:12
This scripture on prayer is a beautiful promise for believers. When we pray to God, He will listen! The God Who formed the earth and sky will listen to you. He is ready and willing to hear our thoughts, fears, and praise.
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
- 1 John 5:14
When we're afraid, ashamed, or depressed, we often like to hide. But this prayer Bible verse tells us that we can approach God with confidence, knowing that He hears us. He wants us to bring Him our burdens through prayer. He wants to give us His peace and comfort.
Bible Verses That Say God Answers You When You Pray
Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known
-Jeremiah 33:3
We have already read Bible verses about when to pray. We've heard scripture about God hearing our prayers. But there's more! Not only does God hear our prayers, but He also answers our prayers. God hears us and God speaks to us through prayer. He will give us wisdom that can only come from Him.
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak
-Matthew 26:41
We face temptations every day, so it's critical that we do everything we can to remain strong when temptations arise. This Bible verse says we must pray that we don't enter into temptation. God shows us that prayer helps to keep our spirit strong.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
-Hebrews 4:16
When we pray, we gain access to God's throne of grace. We get time with Him! When we are in His presence, we receive mercy and grace. Spending time with Him in prayer will help us with whatever we need.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
-1 John 1:9
This prayer Bible verse is another great promise to us! When we confess our sins to God, He forgives us and makes us clean. God is full of mercy and is quick to forgive. We are so blessed that we can start fresh every day, covered in grace because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. This is the greatest answer to our prayers: forgiveness and salvation.
Bible Verses on How to Pray
He said to them, “When you pray, say: “‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.’”
-Luke 11:2-4
Jesus taught this prayer to His disciples when they asked Him how to pray. This scripture is the foundation for The Lord's Prayer. The prayer includes praising God, petitioning God (asking for our needs), repenting of our sins, praying for others, and praying for protection. If you are looking for a checklist on how to pray, this is a good place to start.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
-James 5:16
Finally, this Bible verse reminds us that our prayers are powerful! Even when it may seem like nothing is happening based on our limited understanding, we are reminded that our prayers are powerful and effective.
God wants a relationship with us and He is eager to spend time with you in prayer. This is an opportunity to connect with the Creator of the universe and the One Who made you. There is nothing better than spending time in His presence!
Related Post: 10 Bible Verses Every New Christian Should Know
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