Emmanuel Evangelical Church Chippenham

From 27^th September 2007:

In this final study of the series we will consider the place of praise and thanksgiving in our prayers.

Unanswered Prayer

In the previous two studies we looked at the subject of ‘unanswered’ prayer, and saw several examples in which the answer was ‘no’: 2 Samuel 12:20-23, Luke 22:42, 2 Corinthians 12:8-9.

We looked at what our response should be when God effectively says ‘no’ to our prayers and saw that we should always re-examine our motives (James 4:1-5); be assured that we can always trust him (Romans 8:28; 1 Peter 5:7; Hebrews 13:5) and keep on praying! (1 Samuel 1:19-20; Luke 2:25-35). Whatever happens, we may be encouraged that our prayers bring him glory (Revelation 5:8; Revelation 8:3-4).

Praise & Thanksgiving

Finally then, what about praise & thanksgiving in prayer? What can we learn from:

1. Jesus ‘model’ prayer Matthew 6:9?

2. Paul’s comment & prayers: Romans 1:8; 1 Corinthians 1:4; Philippians 1:3; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:18

3. What place does this not play in prayer?