Text: Matthew 15:21-28
Synopsis: Many different Hebrew and Greek words are translated as “praise” or “worship” in the Bible, but they do not all mean the same thing. There is a level of proskuneo worship which goes beyond simple vocal affirmation; it means drawing near to God. This is the word used to describe the worship of the Canaanite woman in our text, and the type of worship we should seek to attain to.
Text: Psalm 27:1-5
Synopsis: The Scriptures speak of hiding in the shelter of God’s pavilion and seeking His face. We are living in a generation in which seeking the face of God has never been more important.
Text: Matthew 26:36-45
Synopsis: The disciples of Jesus could not tarry with Him one hour in prayer. At its core, their problem was simply that they did not see the need. We live in rushed and hectic world – but do we need Jesus enough to slow down and wait for Him? Do we need Him enough to spend time with Him?
Prayers fail (or seem to be ineffective) for a variety of reasons. Let’s take a look at a few possible causes:
1. We fail to approach God properly through praise.
Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
There is a proper way to approach God, and that is with thanksgiving and praise. The person who approaches Him with a “me-first” or unthankful attitude is unlikely to gain an audience with Him.