Confidence-The Key To Effective Prayer

I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

Psalm 40:1

Effective prayer is offered in faith. The Bible says, “Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them” (Mark 11:24; italics mine).

Maltbie Babcock said, “Our prayers are to mean something to us if they are to mean anything to God.” It goes without saying that if our prayers are aimless, meaningless, and mingled with doubt, they will go unanswered. Prayer is more than a wish turned heavenward . . . it is the voice of faith directed Godward.

This kind of dynamic prayer emanates from an obedient heart.

The Bible says, “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight” (1 John 3:22).

I know a wealthy father who refused to get his son a bicycle because the boy’s report card showed disgracefully low marks, a yard remained unraked, and other assignments had not been carried out. I am sure the father would not have been wise to lavish gifts upon such a disobedient and ungrateful son.

The Bible says, “But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you.” (1 Samuel 12:15).

If you want to get your prayers through to God, surrender your stubborn will to Him, and He will hear your cry. Obedience is the master key to effective prayer.

Our Father and our God, I come to You in faith, believing that You will answer in wisdom and love. Take my life, Father, and use it to Your glory and Yours alone. I want to be like Your Son, Jesus. Give me His compassion, His love, His joy. And thank You for saving me through His blood. Amen.

Billy Graham, Unto the Hills: A Daily Devotional (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 2010).