Prayer and faith

Faith is necessary in order to approach God

Hebrews 11:6 NASB95

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.

Faith is necessary to receive benefits from God

Mk 6:5–6; Jas 5:16–18

See also Eph 3:12; Heb 10:22

Faith is necessary for effective prayer

Mt 21:21–22; Jas 1:5–8

See also Jas 5:14–15

Jesus Christ responded to people’s need on the basis of faith

Matthew 9:27–30 NASB95

As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” When He entered the house, the blind men came up to Him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Then He touched their eyes, saying, “It shall be done to you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them: “See that no one knows about this!”

See also Mt 8:5–13; Mt 9:20–22; Mt 15:21–28

Examples of notable prayers of faith

1 Ki 18:36–37 Elijah, in contest with the prophets of Baal; Jas 5:17–18 Elijah, praying about rain; 1 Ki 17:19–22 Elijah and the widow’s son; 2 Ki 4:32–35 Elisha and the Shunammite’s son