SERIES:  Beliefs Under Construction

TITLE:   A Roof Over Our Heads

TEXT:  Matthew 6: 5-15 (p.811)

“Prayer cannot truly be taught by principles and seminars and symposiums. It has to be born out of a whole environment of felt need.  If I say, ‘I ought to pray,’ I will soon run out of motivation and quit; the flesh is too strong.  I have to be driven to pray.”

I.   CAUSES FOR A LEAKY ROOF

Turn to Matthew 6.  Why are our prayers unanswered?

1. Prayer becomes a (formal exercise) rather than (free expression).  [v.5a]
2. Prayer becomes a cause for (pride) rather than (talking to God). [v.5b]
3. Prayers were long, filled with verbiage, (necessary words). [v.7]
4. Prayer is a front for (false spirituality). [v.16]

II.   FIXES FOR A LEAKY ROOF

Some vital characteristics about prayer;

1. Don’t be (hypocritical).
2. Don’t use a lot of (repetition).
3. Don’t harbor anything (against anyone).

A quick look at the Model Prayer [Verses 9-15]:

1. Take it (personally).
2. Remember who is THE (priority).
3. Focus on His (agenda).
4. Pray for your (needs).
5. (Forgive) others.
6. Fight off (temptation).
7. Leave it in His more (capable hands)

NEXT WEEK:   Wired- John 14: 16-17; 16: 7-15; Acts 1:8