The School of Prayer: Gaining Mastery in Prayer with Apostle Joshua Selman

Understanding the Purpose of Prayer

One of the foundational aspects of Apostle Selman's teaching on prayer is understanding its purpose. Many believers view prayer as a means of asking God for things, but Selman emphasizes that prayer is far more than just petitioning God. Prayer is a multifaceted tool that God has given us to establish His will on earth as it is in heaven. It is an avenue for fellowship with God, a weapon of spiritual warfare, and a means of transformation.

In Matthew 6:9-10 (KJV), Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, saying, "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." Apostle Selman underscores that prayer is primarily about aligning our will with God's and inviting His kingdom to manifest in our lives and circumstances. Through prayer, we become co-laborers with God, partnering with Him to bring His purposes to pass.

Developing a Consistent Prayer Life

Apostle Selman often teaches that consistency is key to gaining mastery in prayer. Just as in any discipline, mastery is achieved through regular practice and dedication. Many believers struggle with maintaining a consistent prayer life due to distractions, busyness, or lack of discipline. However, Selman emphasizes the importance of setting aside dedicated time for prayer, just as Jesus did.

Mark 1:35 (KJV) says, "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed." Jesus modeled the importance of seeking God early and consistently. Apostle Selman encourages believers to cultivate the habit of early morning prayer, as it sets the tone for the day and positions us to hear from God before the distractions of life set in.

In addition to setting aside specific times for prayer, Apostle Selman teaches the importance of developing a lifestyle of prayer. This means maintaining an attitude of prayer throughout the day, staying connected to God in our thoughts, words, and actions. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV) instructs us to "Pray without ceasing." This does not mean we are to be on our knees 24/7, but rather that we should live in constant communion with God, always aware of His presence and seeking His guidance in all things.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Prayer

A key aspect of Apostle Selman’s teaching on prayer is the role of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:26 (KJV) says, "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." The Holy Spirit is our helper in prayer, guiding us in what to pray and how to pray effectively.

Apostle Selman emphasizes that praying in the Spirit—also known as praying in tongues—is a powerful way to access the deep things of God and to pray according to His will. When we pray in the Spirit, we bypass our limited understanding and connect directly with the mind of God. This form of prayer is not limited by language or intellect, allowing us to pray mysteries and align with God's purposes beyond our comprehension.

In addition to praying in tongues, Apostle Selman teaches that the Holy Spirit helps us to pray with fervency and passion. James 5:16 (KJV) says, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." The Holy Spirit ignites our hearts with a zeal for prayer, empowering us to pray with intensity and persistence until we see the answers to our prayers.

The Power of Fasting and Prayer

Fasting is another crucial element in gaining mastery in prayer, as taught by Apostle Selman. Fasting is the act of denying oneself food or other physical needs to focus more intently on God. It is a powerful tool that, when combined with prayer, amplifies our spiritual sensitivity and effectiveness.

In Matthew 17:21 (KJV), Jesus says, "Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting." This verse highlights that certain spiritual breakthroughs require more than just prayer; they require the added discipline of fasting. Apostle Selman teaches that fasting subdues the flesh, sharpens our spiritual senses, and increases our authority in prayer. It is a way to humble ourselves before God and to demonstrate our seriousness and commitment to seeking Him.

Praying with the Word

Another principle that Apostle Selman emphasizes in the School of Prayer is the importance of praying with the Word of God. The Bible is not only a source of instruction and revelation but also a powerful weapon in prayer. When we pray according to the Word of God, we are praying His promises and His will back to Him, which He is always faithful to fulfill.

Isaiah 55:11 (KJV) says, "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." Apostle Selman teaches that when we pray with Scripture, we are invoking the authority and power of God's Word, which cannot fail. He encourages believers to find specific scriptures that address their needs or situations and to declare them in prayer, believing that God will honor His Word.

The Importance of Persistence in Prayer

Apostle Selman also teaches about the importance of persistence in prayer. Many believers give up too soon when they don’t see immediate results, but Jesus teaches us to be persistent in prayer. In Luke 18:1-8 (KJV), Jesus shares the parable of the persistent widow, who kept coming to the unjust judge until he granted her request. Jesus concludes the parable by saying, "And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?"

Apostle Selman emphasizes that persistence in prayer is a demonstration of faith. It shows that we trust God’s timing and that we believe He will answer. Even when the answers are delayed, persistence in prayer keeps us connected to God and keeps our faith alive. It is often through persistence that we see breakthroughs and miracles in our lives.

Conclusion

In the School of Prayer, as taught by Apostle Joshua Selman, believers are equipped with the principles and practices necessary to gain mastery in prayer. By understanding the purpose of prayer, developing a consistent prayer life, relying on the Holy Spirit, incorporating fasting, praying with the Word, and persisting in prayer, we can grow in our relationship with God and experience His power in our lives. Prayer is not just a religious duty; it is a dynamic and transformative practice that connects us with the heart of God and brings His will to pass on earth. As we commit ourselves to learning and practicing these principles, we will see our prayer lives become more effective, powerful, and fruitful.