In the Old Testament, followers of God often are said to "inquire" of God. These prayers are asking for direction. But there are good and bad ways of offering such prayers. Dr. Mark McDowell explorers these issues with this prayer from 2 Samuel 5 ..read more

David's acceptance of Abner's covenant, aimed at uniting Israel, was disrupted when Joab killed Abner, threatening the unification. David, distancing himself from the murder, pronounced an extensive curse on Joab's house and held mourning rites for Abner, stating that a great man was lost. These events showcase curse-prayers in response to betrayal, challenging modern interpretations of prayer that emphasize forgiveness over cursing ..read more

What does a self-serving prayer look like? Is this one of of those prayers by king David of Israel? Join Dr. McDowell as he explores this prayer from second Samuel ..read more

Join Dr. Mark McDowell as he presents an overview of the prayers in second Samuel, before diving into the text and looking at each prayer ..read more

A summary of the prayers in first Samuel: types, purposes, and what we can learn from them to enrich our own prayers. By Dr. Mark McDowell ..read more

Sometimes faith requires us to act on things unseen, and to turn to God at times even when we think the “right thing” is crystal clear. How does prayer play a role in doing the right thing, even when we think we already know what it is? Join Dr. Mark McDowell as he explores this prayer in First Samuel that addresses these issues ..read more

Is God capable of running out of patience with us? What happens if he does run out of patience— are we doomed? Explore these questions with Dr. Mark McDowell as he examines this prayer passage from First Samuel 28 ..read more

Are we careful enough in our responses to God’s answers? Emotions can blur reality, and it can make us blind to our selfishness. How does this relate to our prayers? Join Dr Mark McDowell as he explores these ideas in this prayer from 1 Sam 24 ..read more

How do we seek God’s will through prayer? How do we keep our own biases and desires out of the way? Join Dr. Mark McDowell as he explores this prayer from First Samuel ..read more

How to do find God’s will through prayer? Is casting lots—or some equivalent—valid? Join Dr. Mark McDowell as he examines this prayer in 1 Samuel 10 ..read more