A Vital Link

  A common saying is that “there is power in prayer”, or that “prayer changes things”. Is it the specific prayer that is effective? Do we have to say certain words in a certain way, as if there was a certain formula to follow? Is the prayer itself the difference maker?

  I would contend that prayer is only as good as the One to whom we are praying, the approach to that One to whom we are praying, and the petitions to that One we are making our prayers.

  The one true and living God of the Bible is the only one who can hear our prayers (petitions or requests), know what the best course of action truly is, and display the capability to act as the Almighty God. It is simply amazing to think that the Creator of all the universe takes time to listen anytime, day or night. He never sleeps nor doses off (Psalm 121:2–3 My help cometh from the Lord, Which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: He that keepeth thee will not slumber).

   It is imperative that we come reverently with the way cleared by confession when seeking to draw near to God. To pray in Jesus name indicates that we come having received forgiveness of sins and rely on the access to God in prayer by faith in His blood. He is our sole mediator (1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus).

  Lastly, prayer must be thoughtful, and biblically so. We need to come to God with a knowledge of His will. What does He desire to accomplish in my life and in the lives of those around me?  His will be done should be our highest goal (1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us).

  No, prayer does not change things, but God can and often does change things (prayer is just the conduit He has chosen to communicate with Him). In fact, I would even go as far as saying, “God always changes things”, and the thing He so often changes are the ones who are praying. He works on our faith & dependence (trust) in Him, and then He hones in our perspective & focus upon His will through His Word! In the end, prayer is all about our wonderfully kind and caring God. (1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you).