John Calvin teaches that the Lord did not ordain prayer for Himself but out of regard for us. Indeed, the purpose of prayer is:

1. So that our zeal may be increased;

2. So that our hearts may be sanctified;

3. So that we may be grateful;

4. So that we may meditate on His kindness; and

5. So that we may be assured of His providence.

John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion: 1541 French Edition, translated by Elsie Anne McKee (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans, 2009), pp. 459-460.

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