Catechism Question 85
Why is prayer necessary for Christians?
God commands us to pray because it is a constant reminder of our need for God and His grace, and He has promised to hear and answer our prayers as we come to Him properly.
Focus and Purpose of this Question
This is the second in a series of questions on prayer. In this question, we ask why it is necessary for Christians to pray. If we do not know why we should pray, we are not likely to spend time in prayer.
The answer shows that there are two key reasons we need to pray. First, God commands us to pray. If for no other reason we should pray out of obedience to God. Second, we should pray because has God promised to hear our prayers and respond to them, giving us grace to meet our many needs.
Additional Questions:
Why should we pray?
Why is prayer important?
Scripture References:
Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
John 16:23–24
In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
Matthew 7:7–11
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Philippians 4:6–7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Questions for Further Discussion:
What does it mean when God commands us to pray continually? How can I do this if I have a job, play a game, and take care of daily responsibilities?
Do you really believe that God hears and answers your prayers? Why do we sometimes not get what we ask for in prayer?
Additional Information:
This question is based on question 116 of the Heidelberg Catechism. Any resources you find on the Heidelberg Catechism will have a good discussion on this question.
For additional information, see the teaching series “Prayer” taught during October 2004.
Suggested Worship Song:
King of This Heart (Matt Redman)
(This song gives a good picture of our great need for prayer.)
Verse 1
Time is too short to say it’s okay
To think I can live this way
For just another day
So I’ll search through the night
For the One my heart loves
Won’t stop ’til I’ve found You
For Lord I need to hold You close
Chorus
Be the King of this heart again
Be the King of this life
In my soul there’s a cry today
Be the King of this heart
Be the King of this heart (always)
Verse 2
I’ve stood in the desert and thirsted for You
I’ve run through the city now I won’t let go
I’m throwing myself on Your mercy O God
You say it’s all or nothing
I’m saying Jesus have it all
Bridge
Be the light for my eyes
Be the strength for my feet
Be the love of my soul
Be my ev’rything
Be my day and my night
When I wake when I sleep
Undivided my heart will be