Prayer
Category
Christian Life & Growth
Biblical Definition
The believer's reverent address to God in adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: תְּפִלָּה; Greek: προσευχή
Transliteration
tepillâ / tefillah; proseuchē
Literal meaning
prayer, petition; prayer addressed to God
Key Scripture(s)
Psalm 65:2; Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:1-4; Philippians 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Theological Significance
Prayer expresses dependence, communion, and covenant confidence before God. In the New Testament it is offered through Christ and empowered by the Spirit, not as mere duty but as filial access to the Father.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Prayer is not informing God of what He does not know or manipulating Him into human plans. It is God-ward communion submitted to His will.
Practical Application
Prayer cultivates dependence, peace, repentance, gratitude, and perseverance, and it trains the believer to bring every concern before God.