Prayer Part 11: Wrong and Right Ways to Pray

Introduction: There’s no such thing as a stupid question.

1. Methods

Wrong

Don't pray to be seen. Matthew 6:5

This is hypocritical, putting on a show.

Don't babble. Matthew 6:7

Don't pray mindlessly

Ignoring the poor. Proverbs 21:13

Right

Pray privately. Matthew 6:6

Pray mindfully. Matthew 6:8

Care for the poor. Proverbs 21:13

2. Content

Wrong

Not asking. James 4:2

Prayers contradicting the Bible. Proverbs 28:9

Don’t pray to Satan. Jude 1:9; James 4:7; Zechariah 3:2

Right

Ask. James 4:2

Ask according to God’s will. 1 John 5:14-15

Resist Satan. James 4:7, Zechariah 3:2

Don't pray to the devil by talking as you rebuke him. You don’t need to speak to Satan.

God will rebuke him.

3. Attitude

Wrong

Don’t pray with unconfessed sin in your heart. Psalm 66:18, Isaiah 59:2

Praying when you have unconfessed sin in your heart

Don't ask with wrong motives. James 4:3

While treating others dishonorably. 1 Peter 3:7, Proverbs 1:24-28

Don’t dishonor your wife.

Don’t live without God, ignoring Him and think He’ll answer your prayers just because you ask.

Doubting whether God will answer. James 1:6-8

Having idols in our hearts. Ezekiel 14:1-5, 7-8

Don’t ask for forgiveness if you haven’t forgiven others. Mark 11:25, Matthew 6:15

Right

Confess your sin every time you sin. 1 John 1:9

Ask with right motives, unselfishly.

Live honorably, especially to family. Listen to and follow godly instruction. 1 Peter 3:7, Proverbs 1:24-28

Praying when you are not treating your family with respect, when there is family discord.

Live according to the truth you know.

Trust God to answer your prayers. James 1:5-6, Hebrews 11:6

Repent and turn away from idols before praying. Ezekiel 14:6