Effective Prayer

How much time do you put into prayer each day? Prayer is a powerful tool, but it is neglected by most Christians. It unleashes God’s supernatural power in our lives. Let’s see what the Bible teaches about effective prayer.

We should ask in faith, with no doubting, because he that doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. Don’t let such a person think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways (James 1:6-8).

Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change) and become like little children (humble, simply faithful and trusting), you can never enter the kingdom of heaven. (Mathew 18:3-4) Here Jesus is talking to His disciples. When He says repent, it means we (who are already Christians) must change our mindsets to become more humble and full of faith, trusting Him like a child does. Then we can enter the kingdom of heaven, which is a peaceful, successful and joyful life here on earth.

“And I will do whatever you ask in My Name, so that the Father may be glorified and celebrated through the Son. Yes, I will grant whatever you shall ask in My Name” (John 14:13-14)

This is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: We are sure that if we ask anything according to His will, He listens to and hears us. (1 John 5:14-15)

The Bible teaches us many things that are clearly God’s will for us. We know we can ask for those things boldly without being concerned whether or not they are in God’s will. This includes things like health, prosperity, spiritual gifts, salvation of others, power over sin and an effective ministry.

However, when dealing with daily situations where we are unsure of God’s will, we should pray for His will to be made known.

When learning to pray God’s will, it is important to consider His timing. We can pray for something inside God’s will, but it will only physically manifest in His perfect timing.

Remember, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen” (Hebrews 11:1). If you have the Word of God to back up your requests, stand in faith until you see results. But remember, real faith leads us to enter the rest of God, so waiting on Him should not be a frustrating experience.

I encourage you to start praying for specific things in your life. Let your prayers be specific and fervent, full of faith and trust in God.

Remember, God only has three answers to prayer:
1. Yes
2. Just wait a bit
3. I’ve got something better in mind


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This has been posted on the Facebook group Christian Relationships Rule!