A Framework for Approaching God in Prayer
Following is a framework for approaching God in prayer, starting with foundational principles related to God’s nature and our posture, and then moving toward practical applications regarding how we ask and act. Below is a suggested sequence:
1. Matthew 6:9-13 – “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom comes, your will be done…”
Why first? This is Jesus’ own model for prayer. It establishes God’s primacy—His holiness, His will—before any request. It’s the cornerstone for honoring Him first, setting the tone for everything else.
2. Matthew 26:39 – “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”
Why here? Jesus’ submission to God’s will shows the heart of surrender. It’s a close second because it teaches us to consult God’s desire over ours, a critical shift from a “fast food menu” mindset.
3. Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Why third? This affirms that God welcomes our requests, but pairs it with thanksgiving—a posture of trust and gratitude. It builds on reverence and submission by encouraging us to approach boldly yet humbly.
4. James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Why next? Seeking wisdom to see God’s perspective is a practical step after aligning with His will. It’s how we consult Him first, asking for insight before solutions.
5. James 4:3 – “You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.”
Why here? This acts as a heart check. It’s a warning to refine our motives, ensuring our requests aren’t self-centered, which flows naturally from seeking wisdom.
6. Exodus 14:15-16 – “The Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry to me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward. Lift up your staff…’”
Why last? This illustrates partnership—prayer plus action. It’s less “important” in a foundational sense, but it’s a key application, showing how God might respond when we’ve sought Him first.
This order of prayer starts with who God is and how we approach Him (Matthew 6). From here it moves to the invitation and attitude of asking (Philippians 4 and James 1). We then check our motives (James 4) and end with our response (Exodus 14). It’s a gradual progression from posture to practice.
Listen to the framework here
Compiled by GAP Ministries
Free to use