Prayer is something people do, yet do they truly believe God is listening and will answer? I go through phases in my life where prayer energizes me, waiting in eager expectation for an answer to my plea. However, I also go through dry periods where God seems to be millions of miles away, silent and I feel as if I am talking to myself rather than praying. My degree of intimacy with God influences the confidence I have as I enter God’s presence in prayer.
When an infant is first born, they are unable to speak. Although, God has built into infants body language, facial expressions and a mouth to scream or cry to get their parents attention. When babies are hungry, they fuss until they are feed. As a Christian, part of our prayer life depends upon what we hunger for. If we hunger for something outside of God’s will, our confidence in seeing answers will decrease. As our hearts turn back toward the Lord, our prayer life can be rejuvenated, increasing our confidence in God to answer our prayers.
David is considered a man after God’s own heart because like an infant, he knew how to get God’s attention. Though he questioned God regularly, David never forgot God’s nature. Sometimes God does not answer our prayers due to a specific thing we have or have not done, 1 John 1:8-10. James, the half brother of Jesus, is revealed by the power of the Holy Spirit a prayer to regain your confidence in prayer. James 5:13-20 is a prayer of faith based upon situations you are going through. If you are struggling with your prayer life, make James’ prayer your prayer. Confess your sins to God and claim James 5:16 so that you will receive the answers and healing this morning.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 