Prayer is the act of making a reverent petition to God, a god, or another object of worship. It is further an act of communion with God, a god, or another object of worship, such as in devotion, confession, praise, or thanksgiving. Prayer can also be seen as a religious observance in which praying predominates, and can include a fervent request.
Brief Explanation:
Prayer in counseling is expected by the Christian client, and is one of the most potent “weapons of our warfare” available to us. When I pray for a client, I try to focus on two things. First, I pray what has been discussed, with a possible solution at the end. Second, I pray with my eyes open, after the client closes their eyes, to see the response, which can be most telling.
We should pray in faith, pray with sensitivity, pray for healing and restoration, and pray the blessing of the Lord on those we minister to. Prayer, and the study of the Word are our greatest tools for ministry, and it is a privilege to pray for those we minister to. For more, see The Prayer Training Manual by John Delgado, and Prayer by Dr. Walters.
The Word of God:
Psalm 34:15,17,18
“The face of the Lord is against evildoers, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. The righteous cry, and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Matthew 6:9-13
“Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”
Matthew 21:22
“And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”
Matthew 7:7,8
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”
John 15:7
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray without ceasing”
Philippians 4:6
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
