Why pray? If our lives are determined by fate and we have no impact on the impersonal forces of reality, prayer would be a waste of time and effort. On the other hand, if there is a God who is impacted by relationships and interactions with the human creature, then prayer would be the richest and most fulfilling of all activity. Which do you suppose the Bible teaches?
PRAYER: O God, who has formed me in your own image and breathed in me your own breath: I yearn to live in relationship with you, to encounter your grace in every moment of every day. Teach me to pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
MONDAY- 2 Chronicles 7:12-18
King Solomon completed the construction of the Holy Temple. The Dedication Ceremonies were a tremendous party for and with God. Much of the sixth chapter is King Solomon’s prayer. In this passage we read God’s response to Solomon’s prayer. In verse 12 God acknowledges that God has heard the King’s prayer and has chosen action based on that prayer. Then God makes a promise in verse 14. If the people act this way, God will do this. If they do that, God will respond in another way. Do you believe God responds to your prayers, too?
TUESDAY- Genesis 18:16-33
God has appeared to Abraham to reveal that God’s promise of a son is now about to happen.In the midst of that conversation, God reveals the plan to investigate Sodom and Gomorrah.God is anticipating some kind of judgment upon the cities.Abraham, out of compassion for the people, barters with God.And God seems to welcome it.God is influenced by Abraham’s prayer, and God acts according to that relationship with Abraham.Do you believe God hears your prayers, too?
Wednesday – Exodus 32:7-14, 31-33
Moses had led the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt. They arrived at the holy mountain where Moses had encountered God in the burning bush. He was gone such a long time. The people lost their focus and created a golden calf to worship. God had delivered them from slavery, and provided them through the wilderness. How easily they forget, and begin to worship idols! God threatens to destroy the people. Who changes God’s mind? Why? Do you believe God listens to your prayers, too?
Thursday – 2 Kings 20:1-11
Hezekiah was a good king. He was faithful to God. But God revealed through the prophet, Isaiah, that Hezekiah’s days were ending. How did Hezekiah respond? How sincere was the King? How did God respond? What did God promise to do? Isaiah even promises to provide a sign to confirm God’s promise. Is God affected by your prayers, too?
Friday – Acts 12:6-17
It was a dangerous time in Jerusalem. James, John’s brother, had been assassinated and Peter was thrown into jail. The believers – fearing the worst – gathered to pray. But it appears some of them had doubts that God would answer their prayers. Rhoda became a powerful witness for God and Peter that day. Does God answer your prayers – even when you have doubts?
Saturday – Luke 8:40-48
In case you think you may have to be some special saint to have your prayers answered, here is an amazing story of a woman who had never met Jesus, but believe in his compassion and his power.She may not have prayed some official church prayer from a book, but the yearning of her heart was more intense and more authentic.As soon as she touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, Jesus was aware of her presence, her need, and her faith.He acted in response to what she needed.And she was healed.Do you believe God acts in response to your needs, too?