The Power Of Prayer Even In The Perils Of Life

Our Father in heaven does not want us to allow anxiety and doubt to control us. He has provided us with the resources to live our lives on a higher plane, even while dealing with the perils of life. As Jesus exclaimed, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). One tool we have been given as God’s children is the precious avenue of prayer. Rooted in His love for you and me is our Father’s willingness and desire to hear us, as we pray. We are reminded, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers” (I Peter 3:12).

It is important in our spiritual development that we view prayer as more than something that only occurs in public settings. In the Scriptures we find many individuals pouring their hearts out to God in prayer. Also, many of the instructions concerning prayer, written to Christians, deal with every day life. Philippians 4:6 directs Christians, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” In a section highlighting various exhortations for Christians, we are reminded, “Pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17). Especially when we are struggling with distressing and troubling things issues in life, we need to approach each step with prayer. God’s faithfulness is one of His characteristics which assure us of the strength of prayer, as Psalm 34:4 highlights the Psalmist’s assurance, “I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

God’s power to strengthen His people through prayer has not weakened across the years. Such traits as weakness, timidity, or doubt are not reflected in the following statement concerning prayer, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him” (I John 5:14 & 15).

Sometimes we may feel overwhelmed and in deep pain, that we may think will never go away. But still the power of prayer is guaranteed for the Lord’s faithful (James 5:16). May God help us that our response toward life’s difficulties will be characterized by faith, as we are encouraged, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).