Why Do You Pray?

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah confronts 450 prophets of Baal with bold, expectant prayer that brings fire from heaven. But why did he pray? This message challenges shallow praying and reveals the heart of true, powerful prayer. -Preparation to receive an answer (v.30-35): Preparation isn't lack of faith—it's obedience that positions us for the impossible. Powerful prayer is paid for by constant obedience. What in your life needs rebuilding, sacrifice, or bold planning to see God's answer? (Jer 33:3; James 5:15) -Prayer to receive an answer (v.36-37): Elijah's preparation was simple obedience ("I have done all these things at thy word"). He didn't beg for specifics—his actions proved his faith. Why do we pray? --To say we prayed --To check a box --To communicate with God --To receive an answer—the biblical emphasis! -An answer to give Him glory (v.36-37; John 11:41-42; 14:13): Elijah's motive? "That thou art God... that this people may know that thou art the Lord God." Answered prayer glorifies God publicly, especially to the unsaved. If we don't give glory for past answers, how does that affect future ones? Prepare, pray expectantly to receive, and give God ALL the glory! Elijah was "a man subject to like passions as we are" (James 5:16-18)—ordinary people can pray extraordinarily when aligned with God's glory. #prayer #1Kings18 #Elijah #AnsweredPrayer #FaithfulPrayer #ExpectAnswers