I have been in church my entire life, and I cannot tell you how many times I have heard preachers talk about “the power of prayer.” But what does that really mean? Prayer is not a magic formula that guarantees we get whatever we want. God is not a genie or a Santa Claus figure who simply grants wishes. This is His world, and we walk in His ways if we want His blessing. Over the years, I have learned some important truths about prayer, often the hard way.
It’s Not Our Power
Prayer is simply communicating with God. All power comes from Him alone. We are only vessels, yet what a joy when God allows us to be part of the way He answers prayer. I have been on both sides of that, and it is humbling every time. He does not require fancy words, degrees, or popularity. All He asks for is a willing heart. When we are available, He will do the rest.
We Don’t Always Get What We Want
Sometimes the answer is “no.” God is not obligated to explain why, but sometimes, in hindsight, we see His protection. Other times, we may never know until eternity.
- In my early twenties, I stayed in an emotionally abusive relationship even after God clearly told me no. Ignoring His voice led to years of unnecessary pain.
- When I was pregnant with my daughter, I wanted a specific birth plan, but God closed that door. She was born healthy and strong. I trust that He spared us from complications I may never know about.
- I have also walked through loss. I experienced three miscarriages, one in the second trimester. I may never understand why, but I have chosen to trust the One who does.
Sometimes God does not change the situation. Sometimes He changes us.
Delays Are Not Denials
Often the answer is not “no” but “wait.” Waiting is not something we enjoy in our instant world, but God’s timing is always perfect. He sees the big picture while we only see a small piece.
- Abraham never saw the full promise of countless descendants in his lifetime, but God fulfilled it.
- Moses never entered the promised land, yet God’s word still came true.
His thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8–9), and His promises never fail.
Run From Sin
Sin can stand in the way of our prayers. Scripture says, “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened” (Psalm 66:18). Repentance clears the path for God to move in our lives. Whatever it takes, run from sin, because it only leads to destruction.
Trust in God
When we walk with Him, we can pray with confidence. Sometimes the answer is yes, sometimes no, and sometimes wait, but always trust. God says:
“I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
You are worth more than sparrows (Matthew 10:31). If He sees and cares for them, how much more does He hear your prayers?
Scriptures on Prayer
- Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)
- If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. (Matthew 21:22)
- The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry. (Psalm 34:15)
- This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. (1 John 5:14)
Prayer Requests
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:19)
If you have a prayer request, I would love to agree with you in prayer. You can email me at barbra@gracegetsthelastword.com.
No matter what you are facing, hold onto this truth: God hears, God cares, and His grace always has the last word.
