Inspiration & Worship

The Bible is full of verses that tell us all things are possible with God. Yet we’ve all been disappointed by unanswered prayers. Why? Many Christians have grappled with that question and concluded this: We don’t really understand God and never will, in this life. We can’t comprehend Him. But to give up just because we see only a tiny fraction of what He sees, is foolish.

“Ye have not because ye ask not,” states James 4:2-3.

In other words, we don’t stop praying. We keep on praying. No matter what.

Paul addresses this in his first letter to the believers at Corinth: “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” (I Corinthians 13:12)

When Jesus was preparing his disciples for his death, resurrection and the arrival of holy spirit, he encouraged them to bring their requests to God in his name.

“And in that day you will ask me no question. Truly, truly, I say unto you, if you shall ask the Father for anything, He will give it to you in my name. Until now you have asked for nothing in my name; ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be made full.” (John 16:23-27)

Praying to God, both to praise Him and to ask for what we need, is always a good thing to do. How should we do it? Jesus provided examples, including a prayer we call commonly call The Lord’s Prayer. He asked God for God’s will to be done; praised God; acknowledged God as the master of Heaven and Earth; and acknowledged our need for forgiveness – a prayer that was answered after Jesus was raised from the dead. Finally, Jesus asked God for protection from Satan.

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:9-13)

Our prayers aren’t always answered in the way we wish. But we pray anyway. No matter what. ❚ – Janine Pumilia