ACTS OF PRAYER

The word ACTS is a helpful reminder of the main aspects of prayer:

Adoration is to to worship God for who he is: creator, sustainer, redeemer. 'Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker' (Psalm 95:6).

Confession allows us to clear away the things in our relationship with God which are displeasing to Him. 'If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness' (1 John 1:8, 9).

Thanksgiving. We need to be constantly thanking God for his blessings; both spiritual and material. 'Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures for ever (Psalm 106:1).

Supplication includes petition (praying for ourselves) and intercession (praying for others). In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God' (Philippians 4:6). 'Be alert, and always keep on praing for all the saints' (Ephesians 6:18).