The Power of Prayer

     When we think of prayer, many of us think about the short blessing we say before we eat our food or the goodnight prayer we learned as a child.  However, prayer is so much more than a few words of thanks for our food.  This tool which God has given to us can be as simple as "Lord help me" or as complex as the prayer of praise (The Magnificat) spoken by Mary the mother of Jesus.  Sadly, we do not understand this immense power that is available to all believers, and the best part is all of us can pray.

 

   Because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, the way is open to communicating directly with God our Father as believers. This means we can call upon the LORD at any time over any concern. The problem often comes when we don't take everything to God in prayer.  Paul wrote in Philippians 4:6: "...do not be anxious  about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God."  Instead of running to someone for a quick answer or trying to work it out ourself, why not turn to our Lord first.  He holds the answers we need.  So the first thing we need to do in learning to wield this weapon of our warfare is to go to God and seek His wisdom.

     Secondly, we need to have a humble heart as we come before Him.  Jesus told a parable about the tax collector and the Pharisee (Luke 18:9-14). Both came to the Temple to pray.  The tax collector beat his chest and would not even look up but asked for forgiveness. In another area of the Temple, the Pharisee thanked God that he was not like other men and especially the tax collector.  Then, he told God how he tithed and fasted. Jesus pointed out that the one who came humbly and repented went home justified.  He concluded with these words:  "For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted" (Luke 14b).  Humility of heart is an important part of praying with a right attitude as we bring our requests before the Lord.

     Another characteristic of using this powerful tool is perseverance.  In a recent prayer meeting, we were made aware of story Jesus told of the widow who keeps bringing her request to a judge.  This judge did not fear God or respect people and he kept refusing to act on her behalf.  This did not stop her and she came again and again.  Finally the judge gave in, due to her persistence, and gave her the justice she sought (Luke 18:1-8). Jesus told his disciples this story to point out that we must never give up in prayer. Some answers may come quickly but others take time according to God's providence and will. I learned this lesson myself in our desire to have children.  Due to physical issues, each of our children was what I call answered prayer, and God receives all the glory.

     Finally, God calls us to pray without ceasing (1Thessalonians 5:17).  "Without ceasing" means to pray continually. It does not show lack of faith to keep bringing a concern before the Lord.  As He puts a person, situation or crisis before us, then, stop and take a moment to lift that up. Short prayers, long ones or in between are all important in God's eyes.  He delights to hear you call upon Him.  Even when we do not know what to say, the Holy Spirit helps us in speaking our hearts to the Lord (Romans 8:26-27).

     In these dark days we are facing when it seems the enemy of our soul is attacking our families, our nation or even our community, we must stand strong in the power of prayer.  It is a weapon that is far more effective than anything created by man for God is Sovereign over all the affairs of men, and we have His ear as believers.  May this encourage you today my friends!  Selah!