No. 485 “Pray by Holding on to God's Promises” May 31, 2026

No. 485 “Pray by Holding on to God's Promises” May 31, 2026 At some point in the Christian life, everyone struggles with questions about prayer. “How should I pray?” “What should I pray for?” “Why should I pray when it feels like my prayers are not being answered?” “If God already knows everything, why does He tell us to pray?” The Bible teaches that prayer is not merely an option. It is both a privilege and a command given to God's people. God says, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know" (Jeremiah 33:3, NIV). Jesus also said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7, NIV). Prayer is not simply a way to obtain what we want. It is a way of life lived in fellowship with the living God. We often pray when problems arise. Yet Scripture teaches that we pray not merely because we have problems, but because God is alive, hears us, and answers prayer. Prayer is not a technique for moving God. Rather, it is a means by which God moves our hearts and shapes us according to His will. God does not merely promise to answer us. He promises to show us “great and unsearchable things” that we do not know. He invites us to discover His purposes, His wisdom, and His ways. That is why prayer is not about forcing God's hand. It is about learning God's heart. The Bible also teaches us the proper direction of prayer. James 4:15 reminds us, "Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'" We make plans, but God directs our steps. Therefore, our prayers should not simply be, “Lord, accomplish my plans.” Rather, they should be, “Lord, accomplish Your will in my life.” James 5:16 gives us another encouraging promise: "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." The power of prayer is not found in our eloquence or effort. It is found in the God who hears and answers. Even a short prayer offered by a weary believer is precious to Him. Even a prayer whispered through tears is heard by our Heavenly Father. As you pray this week, hold on to these three promises: “Call to me.” “Ask, seek, and knock.” “If it is the Lord's will.” Pray for your children. Pray for your family. Pray for your health. Pray for your work and daily responsibilities. And above all, pray that you would love God more deeply and know His will more clearly. God still speaks. God still answers. God still opens doors. And God still invites His people to pray.