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“Let Your Petitions Be Made Known to God”The Watchtower—2006 | September 1
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3. (a) As shown by the prayers of faithful servants of old, what types of expressions may be included in prayers? (b) What forms may our prayers take?
3 The apostle Paul urged Christians in his day: “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6, 7) The Bible contains many examples of those who took their concerns to God. Among such ones are Hannah, Elijah, Hezekiah, and Daniel. (1 Samuel 2:1-10; 1 Kings 18:36, 37; 2 Kings 19:15-19; Daniel 9:3-21) We should follow their example. Note, too, that Paul’s words show that our prayers can take various forms. He mentioned thanksgiving, that is, prayer in which we express appreciation for what God does for us. This may be accompanied by praise. Supplication refers to humble, earnest entreaty. And we can express petitions, or requests for something specific. (Luke 11:2, 3) Our heavenly Father is happy to accept our approach to him in any of these ways.
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“Let Your Petitions Be Made Known to God”The Watchtower—2006 | September 1
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What May We Ask For?
9. What should be our main concerns when praying?
9 Remember that Paul said: “In everything . . . let your petitions be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6) Hence, personal prayers may touch virtually every facet of life. However, the first concern in our prayers should be Jehovah’s interests. Daniel set a fine example in this. When Israel suffered punishment because of their sins, Daniel implored Jehovah to show mercy, saying: “Do not delay, for your own sake, O my God, for your own name.” (Daniel 9:15-19) Do our prayers likewise show that the sanctification of Jehovah’s name and the fulfillment of his will are our main concerns?
10. How do we know that it is appropriate to pray about personal matters?
10 Nevertheless, it is also appropriate to make requests concerning personal matters. For example, like the psalmist, we may pray for deeper spiritual comprehension. He prayed: “Make me understand, that I may observe your law and that I may keep it with the whole heart.” (Psalm 119:33, 34; Colossians 1:9, 10) Jesus “offered up supplications and also petitions to the One who was able to save him out of death.” (Hebrews 5:7) In so doing, he demonstrated the appropriateness of seeking strength when one faces danger or trials. When giving the model prayer to his disciples, Jesus included matters of personal concern, such as forgiving errors and obtaining daily food.
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