He practiced what he preached.
Among the many teachings Jesus left us, one of the most powerful was his example of prayer. He not only taught his disciples how to pray, but most importantly modeled it so that others could follow in his footsteps.
The Gospels are full of lessons on prayer that challenge us to re-evaluate our own prayer life. Here are five very important lessons that Jesus gave us about prayer that we can start practicing today.
Pray without a desire to be seen
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Matthew 6:5-6)
Reconcile with others before praying
[I]f you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5:23-24)
Pray before any important decision
In these days he went out into the hills to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles. (Luke 6:12-13)
Do not pray with empty phrases
And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. (Matthew 6:7)
Be bold and believe God will answer your prayer
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you receive it, and you will. (Mark 11:24)
