On the Topic of Prayer

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

In this strange world that we live in, with each crisis outperforming the last, rest can feel unattainable. We search for peace but cannot seem to find it. We’re told to pray. Yet some say that we don’t need prayer right now. Instead, we need action. I disagree. Prayer should always lead to action. If not, then the words we speak are in vain and they fall upon deaf ears.

Intent matters when we talk to God. He never intended prayer to be a passive experience that exonerates us from getting involved in doing what is right. We don’t get to cast aside the needs of others by simply stating – I prayed for you. Instead, prayer is the pathway by which we receive wisdom regarding the actions we should or should not take. Prayer cleanses our souls so that we are assessing situations with clear and unbiased views.

The Power of Prayer

Now, there are those who will say that they have seen and/or experienced change without prayer. That may be true. I won’t argue that without tapping into God, something may not come to fruition. Yet, I do not doubt that God’s way is the best way. With man, some things are possible, but with God, all things are possible. And when God says enough, it doesn’t matter whether or not you believe in Him, He cannot be stopped.

The blessing of knowing God, is that with Him, we have the permission to dream bigger and to go deeper. I have often been told to not be presumptuous, but I don’t believe in placing limits on God. We don’t have to operate within the realms of what our friends and family say is possible. Prayer allows us to tap into the power of God. We can reach higher heights and endure even the most trying of circumstances.

We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

It is by faith that we believe, but it is by prayer that we cultivate the relationship with God needed to endure the journey. Prayer is where we leave the worst of us, and we ask God to fill us with the best of Him. It is in prayer that we ask for the impossible without doubt, because God will deliver. It may not be on our timelines, or in the way we expected, but rest assured, God will provide.

A warning

Yet, there are times where we may see ministers/spiritual leaders who say God has delivered, when in truth He has not. There are those who say they speak on behalf of God, but their character seems so far off from who God has advised us to be. Do not lose faith. I admonish you to not place your trust in man, but instead turn towards God.

The power of righteousness

In James 5:16, we read “…The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” The beauty of this scripture is that you can be that righteous person. Don’t think so? Well note, the scripture does not say that the prayer of a perfect man avails much or the prayers of a minister avails much, it says the prayers of a righteous man avails much. God recognizes our sincere efforts. When we try, He uplifts us and encourages us to the point where we will succeed.

So pray. Pray with openness and honesty. Don’t worry about how amazing it sounds or if it’s the right thing to say. Leave nothing on your heart. Tell God everything and let Him handle the rest. Never forget that prayer has the power to change our circumstances, because prayer has the power to change us. With God as the source of our strength, take courage in standing tall. Believe in the impossible. Fight for what is right.  Don’t limit your journey. And when you fall, don’t lose faith. God will always be there to pick you up.

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