Draw Close to God in Prayer

Conclusion of ANSWERING SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRAYER

How long should our prayers be? The Bible does not place any limit on how long private or public prayers should be. They may range from a brief prayer before a meal to a long private prayer in which we pour our heart out to Jehovah.  (1 Samuel 1:12, 15) However, Jesus condemned self-righteous individuals who made long showy prayers before others.  (Luke 20:46, 47) Such prayers do not impress Jehovah. What is important is that we pray from our heart. Hence, the length of acceptable prayers may vary according to needs and circumstances. 

How often should we pray?  The Bible encourages us to "pray continually," to "persevere in prayer," and to "pray incessantly."  (Matthew 26:41; Romans 12:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)   Of course, these statements do not mean that we must be praying to Jehovah every moment of every day. Rather, the Bible is urging us to pray regularly, continually  thanking Jehovah for his goodness to us and looking to him for guidance, comfort, and strength. Is it not comforting to know that Jehovah puts no limit on how long or how often we can talk to him in prayer?  If we truly appreciate the privilege of prayer, we will find many opportunities to pray to our heavenly Father. 

Why should we say "Amen" at the end of a prayer?  The word "amen' means "surely," or "so be it."  Scriptural samples show that it is appropriate to say  "Amen" at the close of personal and public prayers.  (1 Chronicles 16:36; Psalm 41:13)  By saying "Amen"-either silently or out loud-at the end of someone's public prayer, we indicate that we are in agreement with the thoughts that were expressed.  -1 Corinthians 14:16. 

Next time: Draw Close to God in Prayer/HOW GOD ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?