Abiding importance of prayer. (Preached in John Knox Memorial FP Church, Belfast, July 18th, 2010 at 11.30 am. First preached in Kilskeery FPC, March 16th 1980) "And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint," Luke 18:1. The Saviour is here emphasising the importance of prayer. The use of the word "always" serves to indicate the relevance of such a study today. What do we mean by prayer? Let me give you a definition. "Prayer is that sincere pouring out of the heart unto God, through Christ our Mediator, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, for those things which God has promised in His Word and all in submission to His will and glory." Such a definition is necessary given that much that passes for prayer today is not even remotely like it. Consider then reasons why prayer is so important for all who profess the name of Christ.