The Right Way to Begin Prayer

My tendency in prayer is to jump straight to my requests. I am eager to tell the Father all my problems and needs. However, notable saints in the Bible began their prayers by confessing the awesomeness of God. They started with praise, not petition.

Observe how Hezekiah began his prayer in 2 Kings 19:14-15.

Study how Jehoshaphat prayed in 2 Chronicles 20:6-7 before a military victory.

See how the Apostles prayed in Acts 4:24 before the ground shook. 

And notice how our Lord taught us to begin our prayers in Matthew 6:9.

Don't rush into the throne room. Instead gently, "enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise" (Psalm 100:4). THEN tell the Lord your troubles.