I found a very good and thorough definition of prayer written by John Bunyan (1628-1688). He fleshes out this definition in an article entitled, “What True Prayer Is”. You may read the article at the Chapel Library website (pdf link of the Free Grace Broadcaster). Here’s the definition:
Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the heart or soul to God, through Christ, in the strength and assistance of the Holy Spirit, for such things as God has promised or according to His Word, for the good of the Church, with submission in faith to the will of God.
Chance to Interact: What is your reaction to this centuries old definition of prayer? Is it accurate? Is it lacking in some regard? How true do you find this definition as you compare it to your spiritual discipline of communicating with God?
