When we pray believing, we can count on receiving. I’m not talking about a name it and claim philosophy. I’m talking about real Bible believing faith that takes God at His word such as Mark 11:24.
“Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
Sounds good but is it a reality in our lives? If you’re like me, you approach prayer with faith but close with doubts. Somewhere between asking and believing, there’s a shift in my thinking—a separation of two principles.
“Yes, God, you can do anything, but the doctor says.”
“Yes, God, you can break the chains of addiction, but He’s been chained for a long time.”
“Yes, God, I believe you can work it all out for good, but it’s hard to see what good can come of this.”
Skepticism separates what I think is impossible from what IS possible with God. When this happens, I’m suddenly at odds with myself. And, I walk away feeling as if my prayer was a useless waste of time. That’s sad. No, it’s tragic to go without when God has a store house of blessings He desires to give us if we would only ask.
Matthew says it best. “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11)
Yet, without faith we limit God.
So, what does it take for prayer to work? Belief. I must trust I’ve ALREADY received what I requested.
If I need peace, peace is mine. If I need a job, it’s just around the corner. If I need wisdom, then I move forward with the right decision trusting my wisdom is God wisdom.
Faith is what makes God’s promises a reality in our lives.
I tend to make prayer way more complicated than it is. God makes it simple. “Ask, believing you will receive, and it will be yours.”
The next time you’re at odds with yourself wavering between faith and doubt, choose faith. It makes a real difference in your prayer life and your relationship with God.
Thanks Micca!
Micca….This is my first visit to your site. I have been ill for a couple years now; six diagnosis prior to working on my Bachelor Degree last year. I am 53. Married five years to a very patient , caring new Christian. Praise God!! This has certainly been a challenge to our faith. Dave makes church and Bible study by God’s grace, and I stay home and watch my Charles Stanley under the blankets. Dave and I both are in recovery. He will have 21 years and I will have 13 this month. If anyone could share on faith it would be me. My testimony is worth discussing someday….not my story but God’s divine hand upon myself and five children as is progressed.
I have lost my will toward my education…..I am telling you these personal issues to ask for your prayer and friendship if possible. my personal scripture that I do believe in strongly is:
” But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.
Sincerely, Denise Lavenets