By John David Hicks
When you face a problem or difficultly, you have a choice. You will focus on the problem or you will focus on God. When God wanted His people to go into the promised land under Moses, the people focused on the giants in the land and the fortified cities—the problems. But years later, facing the same problems under Joshua, they focused on God and His promises.
Your human logic and reasoning always requires more information before you risk stepping out in faith. But trust or faith requires a promise. “Those who know your name [character] will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you” (Ps. 9:10). Joshua testified: “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; everyone was fulfilled” (Josh. 21:45).
We are all called to prayer, yet so many of us stay away from it. Prayer allows us time with God. It lets us see God’s grace and faithfulness. It gives us the opportunity to experience His love and presence. It transforms us and the world.
Let me give you five reasons for Prayer:
- You have not because you ask not. That is the first Law of prayer: ASK (James 4:2; John 14:13-14).
- Jesus is Lord of All. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matt. 28:18; Rom. 11:36).
- Jesus has pledged Himself to answer when you: “Ask, Seek, Knock” (Luke 11:8-13; John 15:7).
- In prayer God’s presence is manifested in revelation, guidance and peace (John 16:13; Prov. 3:5-6; Col. 3:15).
- Nothing can stop God from fulfilling His purpose (Isaiah 55:11; Psalms 40:5).
I put a sign in my prayer closet that reads: “Whose life shall I change, and what circumstances shall I influence today with my prayers!”
Will you pray with me: Father, I ask You to let Your Spirit challenge my heart to a much deeper life of prayer with you. I want to see “Your Kingdom come, Your will done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.