Review / Introduction:
James 4:2-3 - You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
Three Powerless Prayers:
- The "pray it Safe" prayer.
- The "Santa Claus" prayer.
- The "public Performance" prayer.
How to Have Your Prayers Answered, Every Time (Matthew 7:7-11):
- Pray in Humility. (Matt 7:7-8)
- I need your Provision.
- I need your Wisdom.
- I need to Serve you.
- Receive like a Child. (Matt 7:9-11)
Proverbs 2:4 - if you seek it like silver and search for it as hidden treasure
James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
Acts 14:7 - ...they declared all that God had done with them, and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles.
1 Corinthians 16:9 - ...for a wide door for effective work has opened to me...
Psalm 62:11-12 - Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God, and that to you, O Lord, belongs steadfast love. For you will render to a man according to his work.
Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!
Small Group Questions (Whole Group):
Read Matthew 7:7-11
Why do you think prayer is such a struggle for many sincere Christians?
How would you respond to someone who says, "I tried praying, and it didn't work."
State Jesus' teaching in Matt 7:7-8 in your own words, regarding "asking... seeking... knocking".
How does Jesus' parent / child illustration help you understand prayer in a better way (Matt 7:9-11)?
Breakout Questions:
Pray for each other, using Jesus' instructions here!