Is There Really Power In Prayer?

I always get a bit of a kick out of throwing this question out to a group of people and then listening as the discussion develops.  It is one of those “got you” questions because most believers will naturally answer “yes” to the question.  However, as the discussion continues, eventually everyone agrees that there is, in fact, no power in and of prayer itself.  The power comes from the One who hears and responds to our prayers.  A great example of this is in 1 Kings 18 where Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal in the showdown at Mt. Carmel.  Both sides prepared their offerings and both sides prayed, but only Elijah saw results to his prayers because he prayed to the one true and living God.

So, I baited you a bit with the title of this article.  I hope it got your attention enough that you have read this far.  My main purpose in this article is not to discuss the theology of prayer but, rather, the practice of prayer.  I know that every single one of us would agree that prayer is essential in walking a meaningful walk with God.  After all, what child has a good relationship with his or her parents without communication?  What an awesome opportunity for us to talk to our very Creator!  Can you believe that He actually wants to hear from us?  He wants to hear our praise, our thanksgiving, our confession, and our requests.  Over and over Jesus encouraged his disciples to pray, and to pray with faith that the God of heaven not only listens but answers.  When we pray in accordance with His will, He gives us what we ask for.  WOW!

One of the great opportunities that the Lord gives to us is the opportunity to pray with and for one another.  He allows us to be intercessors for one another and for others all around the world.  We don’t take advantage of this privilege often enough.  We are encouraged to seek God more frequently.  Prayer needs to be our FIRST RESOURCE and not our LAST RESORT.

Pastor Doug Dennee