Prayer Supports Everything
James Dobson said if we didn’t have crisis in our life, would we ever pray? Some time I wonder. Prayer should be the first step before we take our next step. When we need to decide, prayer should answer our question. Like sheep, can we recognize the shepherd’s voice?
Jim Cymbala, is the pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle in Brooklyn, NY. He says, “Here’s the reality we have to come to grips with – power cannot be taught: it can only be received. this is the limitation of preaching. You can point people to Jesus. You can tell them about the Holy Spirit. But you cannot take the Holy Spirit and impart power to them. Only God can do that. The goal is to get people to God. He alone imparts power to His people, and power comes in the answer to prayer.” If you have not read his book “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire”, take time.
“God want us to come to him empty-handed, weary, and heavy laden. Instinctively, we want to get rid of our helplessness before we come to God. But prayer is bringing your helplessness to Jesus. The very thing we are allergic to – our helplessness – is what makes prayer work. It works because we are helpless. Weakness is the channel that allows us to access grace,” says Paul Miller.
Many churches that I visit are talking about having a revival. I usually ask, “Why?” Do we want to have a revival to reach the lost? Do we want a revival to revive us? There is nothing wrong with a revival but how many happen with little preparation, prayer or otherwise, and no specific purpose. Byron Pulus says, “Revival and the practice of passionate, persistent prayer are inseparable.” Dr. Richard Fisher tells us to read Psalm 85 to hear from God.
- Revival is God’s gracious gift (vv. 1-3, 5-6)
- Revival is evidence of God’s faithfulness and covenant loyalty (vv. 1-3, 7-8)
- Revival is based on God’s Word (vv. 7-8)
We should be praying for our country. Others should be joining us as we fall on our knees. The scripture 2 Chronicles 7:14 is brief and simple but gives direction.
“If my people, who are called by my name,
will humble themselves and pray and seek my face
and turn from their wicked ways, them will I hear from heaven
and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Prayer is the foundation to our church, life, relationships, and country. We cannot be reminded too much!
“revive” magazine is a publication of Life Action Ministries – the summer issue is all about prayer.