PRAY IN STEP WITH GOD
Praying is simply a two-way conversation between you and God.
Very few of us have learned how to fully develop the power of prayer, however. We have not yet learned that men and women are more powerful when they are in prayer than when they are behind the most powerful guns ever developed. We have not discovered that the answers to all our problems can be had through contact with Almighty God.
What does the Bible say about effectual praying?
1. Prayer is for God’s children.
God has a particular responsibility to His children; and unless we have been born into the family of God through the new birth, we have no right to ask favors of God. The Bible says, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12, NKJV).
2. Effectual prayer is offered in faith.
It goes without saying that if our prayers are aimless, meaningless, and mingled with doubt, they will go unanswered. Prayer is more than a wish turned heavenward… it is the voice of faith directed Godward.
3. Dynamic prayer emanates from an obedient heart.
If you want to get your prayers through to God, surrender your stubborn will to Him, and He will hear your cry. Obedience is the master key to effectual prayer.
4. We are to pray in Christ’s Name.
Jesus said, “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13, NKJV). We are not worthy to approach the holy throne of God except through our Advocate, Jesus Christ.
5. We must desire the will of God.
Prayer connects you with God’s true purposes for you and the world. It not only brings the blessings of God’s will to your own personal life, but it brings you the added blessing of being in step with God’s plan.
6. Our prayer must be for God’s glory.
The model prayer which Jesus had given us concludes with, “Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever” (Matthew 6:13, NKJV). If we are to have our prayers answered, we must give God the glory. Our Lord said to His disciples, “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13, NKJV).