Reasons We Pray:

We Pray Because It Demonstrates Our Relationship With God:

Christians often describe themselves as having "a personal relationship with God." Such a relationship revolves around communication. God speaks to us through His Word, and we speak to Him through our lips and mind. If we don't listen (read His Word) or speak (pray), the relationship breaks down.

We Pray Because God Commands It:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)

Complying with Jewish tradition, the prophet Daniel prayed three times a day regardless of the circumstances (Dan. 6:12-13). God wants His people to pray.

"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thes. 5:17).

We Pray Because It Demonstrates Our Position Under Him And Our Dependence On Him:

I lift up my eyes to the mountains where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip he who watches over you will not slumber. (Psalm 121:1-3)

We pray because it is a way to serve God:

The prophetess Anna "served God with fasting and prayers night and day" (Luke. 2:37). When we pray we admit that life is not "all about me."

The apostle Paul wrote,

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (1 Tim. 2:1-2)."

We Pray Because It Strengthens Our Faith:

Seeing firsthand God's provision through answered prayer strengthens our inner man.

Jesus said, But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. (Matthew 6:6)

We pray to the one "who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Eph. 3:20).

We Pray Because It Is Worth Doing:

The genuine passionate prayer of a righteous person can have a great effect. (James 3:20 paraphrased)

Other Reasons We Pray:

We Pray Because He Answers, One Way Or Another (1 John 5:14-15)
To Praise God For Who He Is And To Thank Him For His Blessings.

Miscellaneous:

A combination of different Bible versions was used in the re-posting of this article. The original article used the New King James Version.

Read another Prayer
Read about The Messiah

Acknowledgments:

Steve Herzig - Israel My Glory - Friends of Israel magazine - March/April 2011
Steve Herzig is the director of North American Ministries for the Friends of Israel.