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Westminster Larger Catechism, Question 178

Question 178

What is prayer?

Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God, in the name of Christ, by the help of his Spirit; with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.

Scripture references for paragraph 1

Berean Standard Bible. Public domain text and source credits.

Psalms 62:8

8Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge. Selah

John 16:23

23In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. Truly, truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.

Romans 8:26

26In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words.

Psalms 32:5-6

5Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not hide my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah

6Therefore let all the godly pray to You while You may be found. Surely when great waters rise, they will not come near.

Daniel 9:4

4And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed, “O, Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of loving devotion to those who love Him and keep His commandments,

Philippians 4:6

6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Source and edition

Westminster Larger Catechism. NonlinearFruit/Creeds.json, Unlicense. Creeds.json, English transcription

Unlicense. Source transcription.

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