Two Essential Elements of Our Prayers

Two Essential Elements of Our Prayers

- Confession -

1 John 1: 8-10

If we claim that we do not have any sin, we are

deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9But if we confess our sins to him, he

is faithful and just to forgive

1 John 1: 8-10

us and to cleanse us from every wrong. 10If we claim we have not sinned, we are

calling God a liar and showing that his word has

no place in our hearts.

What do we mean by “confession”?

What do we mean by “confession”?

1. Agreeing with God.

What do we mean by “confession”?

2. Asking for and accepting God’s forgiveness

1 John 1:9

But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just

to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong.

What do we mean by “confession”?

3. Aiming our life in a new direction

Isaiah 1:18

“Come now, let us reason about this,” says the Lord. “No matter how deep the

stain of your sins, I can remove it.

Isaiah 1:18

I can make you as clean as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as

crimson, I can make you as white as wool.”

1 John 1:8

If we claim that we do not have any sin, we are

deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us.

1 John 1:10 10If we claim we have not

sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our

hearts.

Psalms 139:23-24

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know

my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the

path of everlasting life.

Two Essential Elements of Our Prayers

- Thanksgiving -

Psalm 106:1

O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures

forever.

Psalm 9:1

I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart.

Psalm 30:12

O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you

in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 5:19-20

Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always

giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the

name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1. Giving thanks is a command to obey.

2. Offering thanks is part of what we are supposed

to give to God.

3. Expand your thanksgiving beyond “comfort blessings.”

4. The ultimate goal is that we become grateful

people.