Bible Person: Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
Bible References: Luke 18: 9-14
Prayer is the communications link with God. God loves to hear us talk to Him. Our prayers are like a sweet aroma to Him. God realizes that we do not know how to pray to Him. He has given another work assignment to the Holy Spirit and that is to intercede on our behalf to God when we pray. It is awesome to realize that God has made everything possible for us to talk to Him. BUT, we have to take the time to pray and pray with the right attitude.
Read Luke 18:9-14
Chapter 18 of Luke contains parables that Jesus taught regarding prayer. He had just finished a discussion of the last days and His coming again in Chapter 17. During these times, Jesus is emphasizing the need for prayer. Luke 18:1 says that Jesus told them a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. We are in those days where we, as Christians, should always be praying. According to Jesus, if we are not praying then we will be giving up. The world will distract us from our need to pray and, the result is hopelessness and despair. 40 Days of Purpose will show us the cure for this hopelessness. Prayer is the key.
Discussion Questions:
How does the pride of the Pharisee keep him from learning more about God?
How does the prayer of the tax collector increase his knowledge of God?
List the major reasons people pray today?
Application:
What were your prayer needs before this lesson? What are they now?
As you live out each day, write down the needs of others so that you can pray for them at the end of the day.
Identify at least two specific spiritual things God has done for you and thank Him for them each day for seven days.
Write a prayer that would include the following:
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