The Goodness of Prayer

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Praying is something that we are commanded to do; it is “the will of God” for us to ‘keep in touch’ with God. It is something that should be a part of our daily lives. Christians have been so richly blessed, and through prayer we can give thanks to God for what we have been given.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Not only are prayers useful for offering our thanks to God, but it is an avenue of letting our requests be made known to Him. We can ask of God things that would be helpful; things like health and wisdom. Since we can speak to God in prayer, we do not need to be anxious.

After we’ve come to God and brought forth our concerns we can rest easy. We then have no need to worry because God has heard us. There should be a strong sense of joy after speaking with God. That peace that surpasses all understanding should be surrounding our hearts and minds, comforting us.

You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. James 4:3

Let’s remember that when we ask things of God that they should be good wishes. We are not to be selfish and ask amiss - or with wrong motives.

For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
       And His ears are open to their prayers;
      But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:12

Prayer is full of goodness and we can be certain that God hears the prayers of the righteous. However, to have that full access pass to prayer we must be righteous people, striving to be obedient to the Lord.

                -- John Thrower Jr.