Heidelberg Catechism / Lord's Day 45 / Q. 116
Q. 116. Why is prayer necessary for Christians?
Question. Why is prayer necessary for Christians?
Answer. Because it is that chief part of thankfulness which God requires of us (Ps. 50;14, 15); and also, because God will give his grace and Holy Spirit to those only, who with sincere desire continually ask them of him, and are thankful for them (Luke 11;13).
Proofs.
- [proof-1] Ps. 50;14, 15.—Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the Most High: and call upon me in the day of trouble: and I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.
- [proof-2] Luke 11;13.—If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your Heavenly Father give the Holy Ghost to them that ask him.— Matt. 7;7.—Deut. 4;29.—Ps. 50;53.—Jer. 29;13.