We are deeply conscious that, to have a share in the ministry of the "Berean

Expositor", is not only a great privilege, but at the same time a real responsibility. In the

following series we intend to dwell upon practical truths which the Scripture indicates

should be in the lives of all who love the Lord and the high calling He has so graciously

given us. We have the young believer specially in mind, and while some aspects of the

truth presented may be elementary to those who are more advanced along the Christian

pathway, we ask such to bear with us so that those who are younger in the faith may grow

in grace and that we may all not only be rooted in Him (Eph. 3: 17) but exhibit that fruit

of the Spirit which is so well pleasing in His sight (Gal. 5: 22).

To the believer who is going on to spiritual maturity, there can scarcely be a more

important subject than that of prayer. Its importance can be gauged by considering the

pattern given to us by the ascended Lord Jesus, viz. the great Apostle of the Gentiles and

his ministry (I Tim. 1: 16).

Even a casual reading of Paul's epistles cannot fail to disclose the large place that

prayer occupied in his life and witness. It is no overstatement of truth to say that these

were literally steeped in prayer. No less than six times in his letters does the Apostle

declare that he prayed "without ceasing".  On the surface this appears to be an

exaggeration. How could a man write such a passage as II Cor. 11: 21-31 describing his

sufferings for Christ, his tremendous responsibilities, his untiring work, that could have

left little time for what we call leisure, yet declare that he never left off praying?

If we limit prayer to drawing aside in secret upon our knees, and pouring out our

hearts to God, it is obvious that the Apostle could have had very little time so to do. But

prayer, in its essence, is an attitude of the new nature and the renewed mind to God. It is

one that is constantly in touch with Him in fellowship and communion and that, in spite

of all external pressure of circumstances.

Paul could therefore declare in truth that his prayer life was continuous and

uninterrupted, and those who follow him even as he followed Christ, will ever desire to

know in daily experience, such a blessed spiritual condition.

In considering this vital subject, let us look at the words used by the Holy Spirit in the

N.T. for prayer.

Deomai occurs 22 times and is rendered in the A.V. "pray" 12 times, "beseech"

9 times and "make request" once.