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And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests (Ephesians 6:18a, NIV).
The Apostle Paul writes that we are to pray with all kinds of prayers. The Bible gives hundreds of examples of praying and since each prayer has unique qualities, we could conclude that there are hundreds of types of prayer.
I can’t list hundreds of prayers in the 556 words of this Interruption, but I can give you my favorites in The OG’s [Old Guy’s] Seven Types of Prayer list:
#1 ~ The Abba Father Prayer
We cry, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15).
My earthly father passed decades ago, but I still think, “I wish that I could discuss this situation with my dad.” The word “Abba” can be translated as “Daddy,” teaching us that at any time, we can talk to our heavenly Father.
#2 ~ The Big Ask Prayer
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
With our Abba (Daddy), who is the Author, Creator, and Sustainer of the universe, let’s ask accordingly. We should grow our faith with requests to move mountains.
#3 ~ The Prayer That You Didn’t Know You Were Praying
Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
We think it’s impossible. Who can pray continually? Then we find ourselves praying while walking in a park, on a Zoom call, and even while playing Pickleball. If we stop and become aware in our spirit, we are praying more than we think.
Be encouraged!
#4 ~ The Prayer Without Words
The Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans (Romans 8:26).
Let’s face it. Sometimes (perhaps many times), we just don’t know how to pray. When confused, let’s stop, be silent, and ask, “Spirit, pray for me to the Father!” You will be amazed at the result.
#5 ~ The Bothering God Prayer
Because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice (Luke 18:5).
In Luke 18, we read The Parable of the Persistent Widow. A widow keeps bothering an unrighteous judge until he relents and gives her justice. I would never call God an unrighteous judge, but Jesus refers to our Father in this manner because…
…when we have a prayer burden, we should keep bothering God.
#6 ~ The Breaking Chains Prayer
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose (Acts 16:25-27).
Praise and prayer can break chains of addiction, fear, illness, strongholds, and any opposition to God’s will in our lives.
#7 ~ The Knowing What to Do Prayer
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God … and it will be given to you (James 1:5).
When we ask for insight into a decision, we have a promise that a prayer of faith will give us godly wisdom.
We should be the smartest people on the planet!
That’s it—The OG’s Seven Types of Prayers. You won’t find them anywhere else except in this Interruption, but I believe they will rejuvenate your prayers.