Why should I pray if God already knows what I’m praying about?
Time and time again, Christians are encouraged to develop a robust and meaningful prayer life. So you’re praying and you catch yourself thinking, “What’s the point? God already knows what I’m talking about.” There are many reasons that you should pray — even if God already knows what you’re going to say.
Does God already know what I’m going to pray about?
So let’s start by diving into whether God knows what you’re going to pray about. The super-simple, watered-down answer is yes. Yes, God knows what you’re going to pray for — and, yet, He allows us the opportunity to pray to Him. In fact, the Bible reminds us that God is attentive to our cries in Psalm 34:15 (NIV): “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry.”
Why does God want to hear my prayers?
If God already knows what we’re going to pray, what’s the point? Prayer is so much more than just asking God for things or to fix certain situations. Here’s some reasons it’s vital to continue praying:
The Bible tells us to pray. Throughout the Bible, there are many reasons that we’re called to pray. Some of those reasons include: praying for those who are against you, praying when you’re scared or worried, or praying out of a season of thankfulness and gratefulness. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we’re told to “pray continually.”
We’re called to follow Jesus’ example. Even though God knows what we’re going to pray about, prayer is still important because we’re called to follow Jesus’ example. And Jesus prayed a lot.
We communicate with God through prayer. One of the most important reasons we should pray even though God already knows our thoughts is because it’s how we grow. Our relationship with Christ is fostered through prayer. Look at it this way: How close are you to friends or family that you don’t speak to very often? Not that close? Same goes for talking — or praying — to Jesus.
There’s power in prayer. When you pray, God gives you supernatural strength. Sometimes it’s physical strength and other times it’s emotional. Prayer helps guard against evil and temptation.
How should I pray?
The thought of praying can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re lost in the idea that God already knows what you’re going to say. Some people claim that you have to pray with your eyes closed or out loud. The truth is, you just have to pray — just speak to God. Did you know that the Bible actually tells us how we should pray? It’s true. Here’s some of the ways the Bible tells us to pray:
Thank God. He is a good, good Father and is worthy of our praise. Spend some time praying and telling God how thankful you are for Him and the blessings He’s given you.
Pray for forgiveness. Part of our prayer life should include seeking God’s forgiveness for the sins we’ve committed against God, ourselves and others.
Ask God for your needs. It’s true that God knows what you need before you utter a single word. He tells us this in Matthew 6, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask.
Seek God’s direction in your life. God has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). In your prayer time, ask Him to reveal His will for your life to you.
If you’re still not sure what to actually say when you pray, try praying verses in the Bible. The verses you pray can be focused on thankfulness, forgiveness or asking for a fulfilled need.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. And every journey needs a Starting Point.
Starting Point groups are in-person, stress-free and judgment-free groups that meet periodically at Centerpoint Church. Here, you can spend some time getting to know fellow group members, reading and having an open conversation about topics like God, the scriptures, faith and Jesus. Completely new to the teachings of Jesus? Returning to church after a long break? Questioning the teachings you were brought up with or just unsure what you believe? Our Starting Point groups are here to help you navigate your faith journey. Get in touch with us to learn when the next Starting Point group is meeting or to join a Starting Point group.