Have you ever wondered why Jesus often withdrew to solitary places to pray? If it was important for Jesus to pray, what about me, what about you? Prayer was not a religious duty for Jesus but rather an opportunity for intimacy and relationship with his loving Father. 

Mark chapter 9 records the story of a little boy who was demon-possessed. Often, the demon was throwing him into water or fire, trying to destroy him. The disciples were unable to cast the devil out of the little boy, and the father, because of his desperation, came trembling to Jesus begging for his help. Jesus, after asking a few questions, cast the demon out, and the little boy went home completely healed and free. Later, however, the disciples were perplexed and asked Jesus why they were unable to cast out the devil, and Jesus replied to them by saying, “This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting.” (Mark 9:29)

Know this; some things will never happen until you pray. Jesus said, “You have not because you ask not, or you ask with wrong motives.” James 4:2b Apostle Peter, speaking by the Holy Spirit, gave us this admonition: The end of all things is near. Therefore, be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. (1Pet 4:7) When I was a kid, we used to sing a song that said, “Why worry when you can pray? Trust Jesus, He’ll be your stay. Don’t be a doubting Thomas, trust fully in His promise. Why worry, worry, worry when you can pray? 

It seems like we are quick to try hard but slow to pray. There is story after story in the Bible of those who prayed and received life-altering answers. Why was it that prayer was always the key that tapped them into the necessary help or breakthrough that they needed? It is so easy to trust in ourselves rather than trust in God. If this world is going to experience the goodness and love of God, it will happen because of those who will shake the powers of the heavens through prayer! 

I’m praying for you today! May you be a person who unleashes the glory of heaven by the power of prayer! What a time we live in! If there was ever a time when we needed the power of God to be made known, it is now! The world is longing for a manifestation of the God that lives inside of you! I pray that this Encouraging Note will stir your heart today to consider this compelling thought… 

WHAT ABOUT PRAYER?

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