Ta pping Into t he
by Victor M. Parachin
Power of Prayer
D
URING A RECENT SERMON, I
quoted poet Alfred Tennyson’s
well-known words “More
things are wrought by prayer
than this world dreams of.” Following
the service, a young woman who faith-
fully attended the church said to me, “I
like Tennyson’s quote and know that
prayer is important. Yet I never really feel
like my prayers do much for myself or
for others.” That comment reflects that
of many who, like herself, believe that
prayer can have powerful effects and yet
view prayer as something of a mystery.
They feel that prayer works better for
others, especially those who are “more
spiritual.” The truth is, any Christian can
be effective in prayer. Here are some
ways of tapping more deeply into the
power of prayer.
Approach prayer with a confident
spirit. To boost your prayer confidence,
focus on the reality that God has
promised to hear our prayers no matter
how, when, or where we pray. Jeremiah
stood when he prayed (18:20). Peter knelt
to pray (Acts 9:40). Nehemiah sat as he
prayed (1:4). Abraham prostrated himself
while praying (Genesis 17:3). Ezekiel
shouted as he prayed (11:13). Hannah
prayed silently (1 Samuel 1:13). Paul sang
his prayers (1 Corinthians 14:15). David
prayed in the morning (Psalm 5:3). Isaac
prayed in a field in the evening (Genesis
24:63). Daniel prayed three times daily in
his house (6:10). Anna prayed at length
in the Temple each day (Luke 2:37).
The Bible assures us that God not
only hears our prayers but is vitally inter- “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and with God. Converse as though you are
ested in our prayers: “He shall call upon you will find; knock and the door will be speaking with a friend. There is no need
me, and I will answer him: I will be with opened to you” (Luke 11:9, NIV). to feel self-conscious. Paul Tournier writes:
him in trouble; I will deliver him, and Pray simply and sincerely. Use plain, “People often say to me: ‘I don’t seem to
honor him” (Psalm 91:5). Jesus taught, simple, direct language when speaking be able to say my prayers; what ought I
14 EVANGEL • MAY 2009
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