Pastor's Blog: The Power of Prayer

The Power of Prayer!

Growing up is difficult in real life and it can be difficult in the spiritual life as well. Sometimes we have to face some tough issues in order to mature just a little bit more. We all have to face adversities and trials; hopefully in the proper manner.

Before you read any further, please stop and read the following Scriptures:

James 5:13-16

When things get tough we can either use our mouth to vocalize moans and groans or we can train our tongue to pray. All too often we throw in the towel rather than throw up our prayers. Prayer is intimate communication with God. Unfortunately for many the prayer life doesn't travel much further than the dinner table.

You may have heard this phrase before, but it warrants hearing again and again: PRAYER CHANGES THINGS!

James 5:16 The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.

Prayer is not measured by its length...it is measured by its depth. It has been said that faith can move mountains, but prayer moves God. It is amazing that our prayers, whether grand and glorious or feeble and weak, have the ability to move the heart of God on our behalf.

PRAYER CHANGES OUR CHARACTER

The effective prayer comes from the heart of a righteous man. But who is that? That's the person whose faith is seated in Jesus Christ and the Finished Work of Calvary. Effective prayer changes our character. You'll no longer desire to do the things you used to do...satisfying the flesh.

Proverbs 15:29 The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

Tough times don't last, but tough people do. When the going gets tough, that's when our character is revealed. If you feel discouraged, take it to the Lord in prayer. If you feel stressed out, take it to the Lord in prayer. If you feel alone, take it to the Lord in prayer, because prayer changes things.

PRAYER ADJUSTS OUR FAITH

When we put our trust in the Lord and not ourselves, then we are redirecting our faith. Prayer changes our faith. God tells us to cast all of our cares upon Him. Tell Him what's on your heart and let Him take care of it. Let Him take the worries away.

Philippians 4:6-7 Don't be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your request to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

As Christians we can trust in God to meet our needs. We don't need to sweat the big stuff. We can give those things to the Lord because He is our heavenly Father. Just turn your care into prayer.

PRAYER FOCUSES OUR VISION

Our understanding is often limited to our vision. But when our thinking becomes more like the mind of Christ, our vision is expanded. We see things differently; not with our eyes, but through His eyes. Prayer changes our vision.

When we don't pray, our vision stays narrow and we remain within the boundaries of our own limited perspective. Prayer corrects our vision. No matter what you may be going through; if you could see the Lord when you pray you would see a loving God...always compassionate, always merciful, always just, always holy and always there.

Prayer changes our character. Prayer changes our faith. Prayer changes our vision.

The saint who wages war against the devil fights best on his knees.

Say this prayer with me: Lord, Jesus, today I purpose to take my prayer life to a higher level. I desire to have intimate communication with you on a daily basis. I desire to talk and have fellowship with you regularly. As I draw closer to You, develop a Godly character in me. As I spend more time with You, cause my faith to rise to new heights, help me to see things and others through your eyes. In Jesus Name! Amen!

I Am Praying For You!!
Pastor Rick