Even a cursory perusal of the Scriptures will reveal the large and
important place which the doctrine of Prayer finds therein. The
Christian life cannot be sustained without it; it is the Christian's
vital breath. Its importance is seen when we recall:
That the neglect of prayer is grievous to the Lord (Isa. 43:21, 22;
64:6, 7, R. V.). That many evils in life are to be attributed
to the lack of prayer (Zeph. 1:4-6; Dan. 9:13, 14, cf. Hosea 7:13,
14; 8:13, 14).
That it is a sin to neglect prayer (1 Sam. 12:23).
That to continue in prayer is a positive command (Col. 4:2, R. V.;
1 Thess. 5:17; we are commanded to take leisure or a vacation for
prayer: 1 Cor. 7:5).
That it is God's appointed method of obtaining what He has to bestow
(Dan. 9:3; Matt. 7:7-11; 9:24-29; Luke 11:13).
That the lack of the necessary blessings in life comes from failure
to pray (James 4:2).
That the apostles regarded prayer as the most important employment
that could engage their time or attention (Acts 6:4; Rom. 1:9;
Col. 1:9).