What rule hath God given for our direction in prayer?

Do we need direction in prayer?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: For we cannot order our speech by reason of darkness, (Job 37:19)

Should we therefore seek direction of God?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Lord, teach us to pray, (Luke 11:1)

Are there particular directions for prayer in the word of God?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Take with you words and turn unto the Lord; say unto him, (Hosea 14:2)

And particular examples of prayer?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: And Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, (1 Chronicles 4:10)

Is the scripture then the best rule for our direction in prayer?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: For the words of the Lord are pure words, as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times, (Psalm 11:6)

And is it through a neglect thereof that we are guilty of so many mistakes in prayer?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Ye know not what ye ask, (Matthew 20:22)

Is the Lord’s prayer of singular use as a directory for prayer?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: After this manner therefore pray ye, (Matthew 6:9)

Doth this prayer consist of a preface?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Our Father which art in heaven, (Matthew 6:9)

And of petitions?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, (Matthew 6:9)

And of a doxology or conclusion?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, (Matthew 6:13)

Should we imitate this prayer in the brevity and comprehensiveness of it?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: When ye pray use not vain repetitions, (Matthew 6:7)

And in making the glory of God the top and chief of our desires?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: For what wilt thou do unto thy great name? (Joshua 7:9)

And in preferring spiritual to temporal good?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, (Matthew 6:33)

Should those that are teachers of others, like Christ, instruct them to pray?

Answer: Yes.

Proof: We should be like minded, after the example of Christ Jesus, (Romans 15:5)