In spite of increased opportunities in the workplace, most women still earn considerably less than most men, and the vast majority of the nations’ poor are single mothers and their children.
A man who honours his wife, as a member of the weaker sex will protect, respect, help and stay with her. He will not expect her to work full-time outside the home and full-time at home; he will lighten her load wherever he can. He will be sensitive to her needs, and he will relate to her with courtesy, consideration, insight and tact. If a man is not considerate and respectful of his wife, his prayers will be hindered, because a living relationship with God depends on right relationships with others. Jesus said that if you have a problem with a fellow believer, you must make it right with that person before coming to worship (Matthew 5:23,24). This principle carries over into family relationships. If men use their position to mistreat their wives, their relationship with God will suffer.
(1) Examples Of Prayer In The Bible: An Overview
Old Testament Israel is a nation born of prayer. Abraham heard God’s call (Gen 12:1-3) and God heard the cries of the Hebrew children (Exod 3:7). Moses conversed with God (Exod 3:1-4:17) and interceded for Israel (Exod 32:11-13; Num 11:11-15).
By prayer Joshua discerned sin in the conquest community (Josh 7:6-9), but was tricked when he did not discern God’s opinion by prayer (Josh 9). God also spoke to the judges to deliver His people when the people called out to Him for deliverance. David’s spiritual acumen is seen in his prayers of confession (2Sam 12:13; Ps 51). Solomon fulfilled the promises made to David after praying for wisdom (1Kings 3:5-9) and dedicated the temple in prayer (1Kings 8). God worked miracles through the prayers of Elijah and Elisha (1Kings 17:19-22;18:20-40).
The writing prophets noted that genuine prayer calls for accompanying moral and social accountability (Hos 7:14; Amos 4:4-5). Isaiah’s call reflected the intense cleansing and commitment involved in prayer (Is 6). Jeremiah’s dialogue and intercession frequently voiced reservation and frustration (Jer 1; 20:7-18), teaching honesty in prayer. The book of Psalms teaches that variety and honesty in prayer are permissible; the Psalms proclaim praise, ask pardon, seek such things as communion (63), protection (57), vindication (107) and healing (6).
Psalm 86 provides an excellent pattern for prayer. Daily patterned prayer becomes very important to exiles denied access to the temple (Dan 6:10).
In the New Testament Jesus’ example and teaching inspired prayer. Mark emphasised that Jesus prayed in crucial moments, including the disciples’ appointment (3:13), their mission (6:30-32), and the transfiguration (9:2). Jesus displayed a regular and intense prayer life (Matt 6:5;14:23; Mark 1:35). Luke taught that Jesus was guided by the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:22;4:1,14,18; 10:21; Acts 10:38).
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