THE EXAMPLE PRAYER

Introduction:

A. The Importance Of Prayer.

1. Time to communicate and share with God.

2. Time of development of our relationship with God.

3. Time of learning and reminding ourselves of truths.

B. Is Prayer Difficult?

Body: Luke 11: 1 - 4

I. Request For Teaching.

A. Jesus' Example.

1. He was praying.
2. He prayed often.

B. Disciples Come To Him.

1. Respectfully wait until He is finished.
2. Desired His teaching.
3. Wanted to pray like Him.
4. John had taught his disciples the "right way."

II. The Example.

A. Speak To God.

1. Praise and adore Him.
2. Request that His will be done.
3. Desire for things to be here as they are in heaven.

B. Physical Requests.

1. Ask God to take care of physical needs.
2. Reminder of what we really need vs. what we desire.

C. Spiritual Requests.

1. Request forgiveness of sins
2. Reminder to be forgiving.
3. Request for assistance to keep from sinning.

III. Observations

A. Not difficult or flowery.

B. No example of profound thoughts.

C. No need for extensive training or intensive effort.

D. It is simple, straight-forward, honest and revealing.

Conclusion:

A. How You Pray Is Not Important.

B. It Is Important Whether Or Not You Are Praying!