THE AMAZING POWER OF PRAYER
By Rita Jennas
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!
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