As I began thinking about today’s devotion the matter of prayer came up particularly in relation to the folks we have been praying for and in fact a number of prayers have been answered. So it begs the question. How important is prayer in the life of every Christian? I read a quote that said. “Prayer isn’t just about asking God for things you need or problems to solve. It’s about establishing a relationship with Him built on faith and trust in Him.”
Years ago folks gathered at the Peake’s for Prayer and Bible study. A couple of attendees would beg off praying saying they found it hard. My question was how much difficulty do you have conversing with a friend? God is your friend. Treat Him like a friend and have that conversation with Him as a friend. Both in private and in public. I would also make the point that we have so much to be thankful for, that our prayers should begin with thankfulness and praise. I know that in mine and my family’s loves we continually praise God for the overabounding blessings He has provided for us.
Psalm 4:1
Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me and hear my prayer.
God Does!!!
Psalm 69:13
But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O Lord, in an acceptable time; O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.
God Does!!!
Both of these verses reflect the dependence on prayer that came from David.
Psalm 102 :17 David speaks of the fact that
He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.
In other words everyone who calls on Him will be heard.
That does not mean prayers are answered in the exact way we expect, which sometimes means no, but rest assured an answer will come. If not maybe, then wait. God does hear and answer prayer but not always in the way we expect.
Lastly, let’s see Jonah in his situation.
Jonah 2:7
When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord; and my prayer came in unto Thee, into Thine holy temple.
Prayer is one of the keys to Christian living. It should keep us from bearing the load alone. We know our Father cares for us and expects us to share everything with Him. Do that!
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing.
Mark 11: 24
Therefore I say unto you, Whatsoever things ye desire, when ye pray believe that ye receive them and ye shall have them.
I would say “within reason”!
Just Keep on Praying
Pray when the storm clouds Gather o’erhead, Hiding the light from you; Filling your soul with Darkness and dread, Pray till the light breaks through.
Pressed under sorrow, Near to despair, Troubles your soul pursue; Go to your Father, Tell Him your care, Pray till the light breaks through.
Pray then believing, God on the throne Looks with compassion true. Unto His children, Cares for His own. Pray till the light breaks through.
Chorus: Just keep on praying till light breaks through The Lord will answer (will answer) you God keeps His promise His word is true Just keep on praying till the light breaks through.
I hope that’s your answer to life’s problems and ills. Our anchor in life is our Savior and the phone line is always clear through prayer.
