"...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place."
-2nd Chronicles 7: 14-15

The Power of Prayer

How important is the power of prayer? God tells King Solomon in the Old Testament that if the nation of Israel will "humble itself and pray" (2nd Chronicles 7: 14 above) that He would heal their land. Jesus constantly prayed to the Father. Including in John 17 (see below) when Jesus prays for Himself, the disciples, and for all believers right before He is arrested and turned over to the authorities. In fact, at every key moment in Jesus' life and ministry you can fin Him in prayer. Jesus tells us in Mark 11: 24 "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Jesus also provides us with guidelines on how to pray in Matthew 6: 5-14 (the Lord's Prayer). Prayer was obviously important to Jesus and should be to us as well.

I know that my life is 'empty' without prayer. Prayer is a vital part of my relationship with Jesus. There is nothing that I hold back (my failures, blessings in my life, etc...). We are not perfect and make mistakes. Talk to God about your struggles. I feel that it is important to share all of our life with the Lord. It makes me glad to know that we have a Lord who loves us and who wants to have a relationship with us. A relationship that can be enhanced by the power of prayer.

I pray that things are well with you. Please let me know if you have any prayer concerns or praises. Have a great week and remember to smile :), the Lord loves you!

In Christ,

Shan D. Hartsough

"After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed... -John 17: 1