Patterns in Prayer

As I counted the word prayer 43 times in 3 Nephi 17-19, I thought it might be important to look more closely about what we can learn about prayer from these three chapters.

1st) Chapter 17-Jesus gives us an example of prayer as he prays with the people

2nd) Chapter 18-Jesus instructs the people how to pray

3rd) Chapter 19-Jesus continues to instruct the people and give personal examples of how to pray

I think there's a pattern we can follow here when it comes to teaching anyone about any aspect of the gospel. First, be an example. Second, teach them. Third, continue to teach and provide that example. "Therefore, hold up your light that it may shine unto the world. Behold I am the light which ye shall hold up-that which ye have seen me do." (3 Nephi 18:24). As we pattern our life after the Savior's example, we in turn will be an example to others.

As we look closely at what Christ does in each of His prayers, we can find another pattern to follow in our own personal prayers.

1st)  go to a secluded place (19:19, 27, 31)

2nd) kneel/bow down (17:13) (19:19,27)

3rd) express gratitude (19:20, 28)

4th) pray for others (17:21) (19:23, 28)