It's no secret how important a role prayer plays in a Christian's life. It's a non-negotiable. You can't do Christianity without prayer period.
But do we pray simply because we have to and are told to, or because we know the power that is in praying?
What makes prayer powerful is not prayer itself. Fact is, a prayer is really just words either uttered verbally or in our own heads even. What makes prayer powerful is not the practice or ritual, but the name by which we pray by. We pray in the name of Jesus.
Proverbs 18:10 says, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe."
There is power in Jesus' name and in praying in His name. But do you know that power?
Here are five signs that you might have at some point underestimated the power of prayer.
1. We Worry Too Easily
Philippians 4:6 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
Prayer is a powerful alternative to self-dependence and the anxiety it brings. When we worry we put our trust in ourselves, in our jobs or in external circumstances. But in prayer and petition declaring the power in Jesus' name, we rely on His finished work on the cross.
2. We Resort First to Our Own Alternatives
I have to admit that I'm not always aware of the power of prayer myself. There are times that my default is to plan and strategise first. While there's nothing wrong with planning, it's when we plan around God's will and ways that we can soak our plans in fervent and faithful prayer.
3. You Don't Pray Unceasingly
This may sound too obvious to mention, but how many of us really can say that we pray in every circumstance? 1 Thessalonians 5:17 puts it plainly: "Pray without ceasing."
When we pray in everything, God shows up with all His power every time.
4. You're Burnt Out
If you're burnt out and tired, chances are it's because you aren't putting your full trust in Christ and the power in His name. And again, we can all fall short in this area. But we must always remember how at just the mention of the name of Christ, our breakthroughs can come, our brokenness can be healed and our freedom is bought.
5. You Can't Fight Lies With Truth
It's when we pray that the Holy Spirit comes and speaks to us heavenly truth through God's Word or even through personal revelation. Prayer is communication and when we cut communication, we are deprived of the truth that comes through speaking with God. The only way to be planted firm in God's truth and the power of the gospel is if we fervently pray as a result of knowing the power in Jesus' name.
