What is Prayer?
Prayer is an important part of believers' relationships with God: it is how He communicates with us. Through prayer, God gives direction and encouragement in our daily lives so we can help others in need and pray for those who don't know Him.
What is a House of Prayer?
Jesus made it very clear in His ministry here on earth that prayer is not just another thing believers should do or another ministry for the church. In Matthew 21:13 He said, "My house will be called a house of prayer." We know that if we go into a "House of Pancakes," pancakes are not just a second thought on the menu. No, it would only make sense if pancakes were served with nearly everything. In the same way, prayer should be an integral part of who we are and what we do in the church.
Sherman Church of the Nazarene is becoming a house of prayer. Though we do not single people out to pray in front of others, we want to provide every opportunity possible for people to pray and/or present needs for which we can pray. We invite you to join us or to simply allow the atmosphere of prayer to prepare your heart for the presence of God.
Why is Prayer So Important?
God wants us to pray; God has chosen to do little or nothing except through His people's prayers. Jesus commanded us to pray (Matthew 13:33 and Luke 10:2). Jesus taught us how to pray (Matthew 6:5-13) and told for what we should pray (Matthew 9:38, Luke 22:40). Jesus prayed a great deal; Luke 6:12-14 tells us that He prayed all night before He chose His disciples. Nearly all of John 17 is Jesus praying for His disciples, then and now.
Prayer works; when we seek God and pray according to His heart's desire, He answers in unbelievable ways! Prayer changes us; perspectives change the more we pray, both as individuals and as a church. When we pray, God directs and blesses our efforts so our ministries are more fruitful.We no longer work in our own power but in God's power, which can do "more than all we ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20).