Did anyone tell you there’s no right or wrong way to pray? They’re correct. But there is a wrong sense of conviction as we pray. When we ask God for blessings, we often use a mousy attitude. We request limited blessings. And we imagine only what our human minds can hold.
But when we change the way we pray, the results are different. Putting pride aside, our prayers need to be bold, sure and expectant.
I tried that. Recently, in my prayer time, I asked the Lord to grant me favor on this particular day. Not sure what that favor would be, I didn’t focus on the specific blessing. Instead, I asked, with an expectant spirit and an anticipating heart.
Later that day, my mom and I stopped at a Christian bookstore. We walked in, and the woman behind the counter recognized me. In an angelic voice, she said, “A group in my church is doing the Bible study in your book.”
My book? Among all those popular books by world-renowned authors, her church chose my book? I did a cartwheel in my head and thanked God for that sweet encouragement.
You may not be looking for your books to be read. But instead, you need huge solutions. No matter what the request, here are three steps to pray more effectively.
1. Discard doubt and express the authority we have in Jesus.
The words can be few, but the faith has to be deep.
John and Peter show us the simplicity of a powerful prayer. They encountered a man crippled from birth who begged for money.
“Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk” (Acts 3:6-8).
2. Never stop declaring what God will do.
Persistence and perseverance are the vehicle to answers. Keep on knocking expectantly. and the door will open.
The reason we never stop is because God said, “You do not have because you do not ask God” (James 4:2b, NIV).
3. Expect the best God has for you.
Be prepared for a greater answer. And declare in advance praises for what God has prepared, thanking Him in advance for the gifts He has stored in the warehouse of His love. He’s willing, ready and longing to make the delivery according to His schedule.
Here’s His promise: “Which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matt. 7:9-11).
God, who created the universe and who knit us together in our mother’s womb, knows what we need. He’s aware of what we lack. He observes our desires and knows what we desire at this moment. He knows what your heart longs for as you read these lines. And He sees the tears that wet your pillow.
That’s why He repeats His promise, “At the right time, I, the Lord, will make it happen” (Isa. 60:22, NLT).
And as He prepares His answer, He’s curling His finger, calling you to step into His will as you place your prayers before Him, sure of His timing and with certainty of His answer.
Let’s Pray
Father, thank You for the boldness You gave me to come before You and express my requests. With patience, I will wait, and with hope, I will praise You. In Jesus’ name.
What changes do you need to make as you pray? {eoa}
Janet Perez Eckles is an international speaker and the author of four books. She has helped thousands conquer fear and bring back joy.
This article originally appeared at janetperezeckles.com.
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