by Kevin "Mac" McClure
Jesus taught His followers a parable about prayer so that they wouldn't "lose heart" and give up on praying (Luke 18:1-8). This implies that they were tempted to give up on praying. So are we. We wonder, "Do my prayers make a difference?...What's the point?"
Some have embraced a theology that says that praying doesn't change anything- it is meant to change the pray-er. I don't embrace that theology. Prayer was never intended to be a religious exercise. It is not an end in itself. This understanding may lead some people to believe that praying without regard for answers is heroic. I think it's foolish.
Prayer is a means by which we may develop our relationship with the Father in heaven and it is a tool, if you will, by which we may partner with God in bringing about His purposes and the establishment of His Kingdom. Hence, Jesus taught us to pray that His will would be done with heavenly efficiency and His Kingdom would materialize on earth.
To get a picture of what His purposes and Kingdom look like, simply look at the life and ministry of Jesus. What happened when He was on the scene? The marginalized were embraced. The tormented where delivered. The sick were healed. Sin was forgiven. Hope was restored! In short, people experienced salvation in all its richness.
What's your life look like? What about your circle of influence? Any need for hope, healing, forgiveness and deliverance? Of course! Then partner with God by praying that He will establish these things where you see they are so drastically needed. Askthe Holy Spirit to help you not to grow weary in your praying. Understand that delays are not denials. It took ten "rounds" of the fight of his life before Moses saw his plea, "Let my people go!" answered! Pray for miracles! Why expect less?