5 Day Devotional: Teach Us to Pray (Part 4): Ask and Seek

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from this past Sunday's sermon.

Day 1: Persistent Prayer
Reading: Luke 11:5-8
Devotional:
Today we explore the power of persistent prayer. In Jesus' parable, we see a man who shamelessly persists in seeking help for his unexpected guest. This persistence isn't about wearing God down, but rather about revealing the true desires of our hearts.
As you pray today, consider: What are you truly passionate about in your prayers? Are there areas where you've given up too quickly? Remember, persistence in prayer isn't about manipulating God, but about aligning our hearts with His and demonstrating our genuine concern for others and the kingdom of God.
Reflect on a situation in your life where you need to persist in prayer. Commit to praying about this consistently over the next week, with a heart open to God's will and timing.

Day 2: The Goodness of Our Heavenly Father
Reading: Luke 11:9-13
Devotional:
Today's passage reminds us of the incredible goodness of our Heavenly Father. Jesus uses the analogy of earthly fathers to illustrate God's perfect love and provision for His children.
As you meditate on these verses, consider the depth of God's love for you. How does knowing that God desires to give you good gifts impact your approach to prayer? Remember, the ultimate gift is the Holy Spirit - God's very presence in our lives.
Take time today to thank God for His goodness. Reflect on times when God has provided for you, even if it wasn't in the way you expected. How might this change your perspective on unanswered prayers or difficult circumstances?

Day 3: Praying with Confidence
Reading: 1 John 5:13-15
Devotional:
Today we focus on praying with confidence. John reminds us that when we pray according to God's will, we can be certain that He hears us and will answer.
This confidence isn't based on our own worthiness, but on God's character and promises. How might this assurance change the way you pray? Consider areas in your life where you've hesitated to bring your requests to God.
As you pray today, practice aligning your requests with God's will. Start your prayers with "Your kingdom come, Your will be done" and see how it shapes your petitions. Remember, even a "no" or "wait" from God is an answer rooted in His perfect love and wisdom.

Day 4: Active Faith
Reading: James 2:14-26
Devotional:
While not directly mentioned in the sermon, this passage complements the idea of seeking with anticipation. James teaches us that true faith is accompanied by action.
As you read, consider how your prayers are leading to action in your life. Are there areas where you're praying for change but not taking steps of faith? Remember the illustration: "When you pray for rain, be sure to pack an umbrella."
Today, choose one area where you've been praying for God to work. What step of faith can you take in anticipation of God's answer? This might be preparing for an opportunity, reaching out to someone, or making a change in your own behavior.

Day 5: The Presence of God
Reading: Psalm 16:5-11
Devotional:
We conclude our week by focusing on the ultimate gift - God's presence. The Psalmist rejoices in the Lord as his portion and cup, finding fullness of joy in His presence.
As you meditate on these verses, reflect on how you experience God's presence in your life. How does the promise of His constant presence impact your daily walk? Remember that in all our prayers and seeking, our greatest need and desire should be for more of God Himself. Today, practice being aware of God's presence throughout your day. Set reminders to pause and acknowledge Him. As you pray, focus less on what you want God to do, and more on simply being with Him and knowing Him more deeply.