THE AMAZING POWER OF PRAYER




THE AMAZING POWER OF PRAYER: So many books have been written...so many sermons preached; and words spoken about prayer; but even Jesus'' disciples walking with Him daily, still asked: "Lord, teach us to pray!". And, today, as we face life''s challenges, we are always being led to prayer. But our dedication to a life of prayer goes far beyond seeking answers to the challenges we face or meeting the needs we have. It goes beyond just being "something" we do every morning and/or every night before we retire. President Lincoln said, "I''ve been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom, and that of all about me, seemed insufficient for that day". So let our prayers be pure and purposeful; and most of all...be in line with God''s Word. Then, as the Bible said in Matthew 9:28 - "It will be according to your faith". The Bible also said that we should guard our heart (our thoughts) with all diligence for it is the wellspring of life - meaning: A source of continual supply (Proverbs 4:23) When we pray, let us learn to relax in God''s Presence as we find our own prayer personality - by not trying to imitate someone else. There are short prayers, long prayers; and all kinds of different ways to pray. Sometimes it is a group prayer where everyone is agreeing and encouraging one another in one common cause. But God hears all prayers; and "Blessed are the pure in heart", He said. (Matthew 5:8) Concerning prayer, the Bible says: "Pray to your Father which is in secret, and He will reward you" (Matthew 6:6) It is not wise then, to share your prayer request with everyone - (except it''s your Pastor, or trusted prayer partners). This humorous story is about a talking parrot named POLLY. Her owners could not stop her from babbling so much. One day she attracted the attention of a passing eagle. The eagle flew down, seized the chattering parrot in its claws and flew away with it. When Polly realized her mistake, she cried: "Polly, you talk too much?" It is also said that during the war an Officer asked General George Washington what were his plans for that day. The General said: "Can you keep a secret?" The Officer said: "YES SIR!" The General replied: "So can I!" They won the war. "In quietness and confidence, shall be your strength" (Isaiah 30:15) The Bible is also full of examples pertaining to the Amazing Power Of Prayer. Daniel was thrown in a lion''s den. But he prayed all night long. And in the morning he had this testimony: "My God sent His angel, and He shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me" (Daniel 6:22) "Be at peace" the Prophet JOB said; "And GOOD will come to you". (Job 22:21) Maintain an attitude of harmony within yourself. When a quiet stream meets upon obstacles, it rides over them, or quietly moves around them. Regardless of the unwelcome obstacles in its path, if there''s a strong undercurrent, it still quietly moves forward towards its destination. Let this quiet undercurrent of prayer strengthen your faith. Stand firm, for, "Greater is He that is within you,than he which is in the world" (1John 4:4)So use the measure of faith you have, and allow that faith to become like a channel through which the substance of the things you hope for, and the desires of your heart become evident in your life. For God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, ABOVE ALL that you ask, according to the power that works in you. (Ephesians 3:20) One translation says: "Far beyond your hopes and dreams". So let not prayer be a recitation of well-remembered words, or high-sounding phrases; nor the mere asking of favors from God. For prayer is a time to help us build our relationship with God. A time to strengthen the bond of love and fellowship that God desires. The Bible encourages us to "come boldly", with confidence...knowing that there''s always enough mercy, forgiveness and grace to help us in our time of need. Remember, we are not just heirs to His promises - but also to ETERNAL LIFE. God has already done His part. And He keeps close watch over the whole world, to give strength to those whose hearts are loyal to Him. (11 Chronicles 16:9) "I have swept away your offences like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to Me for I have redeemed you" (Isaiah 44:22) "The old has gone, the new has come" (11Corinthians 5:17). Next, we will experience the Amazing Power Of Prayer, when we believe His Word and FORGIVE those who have wronged us. (Luke 6:37 & Matthew 6:14,14) Jesus Himself gave us a beautiful example of forgiveness as He suffered on the cross. "Father, forgive them" He said. Lastly, listen in your heart - allowing God to speak. For there''s no better Guide, no wiser Teacher, no kinder Parent (or even a loving spouse) who can show you the way than the HOLY SPIRIT. David said: "I will lift up my eyes unto the hills, from whence comes my help" Let us continually "lift up our eyes" during this New Year, and enjoy this amazing power - LET US PRAY!