The Power & The Prayer

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D. The idea that power is inherent in prayer is indeed a very popular one! However, according to the Bible, prayer is, quite simply, that which taps into the power of God, who hears and answers prayer. Power doesn’t reside in the prayer itself, nor in its fervency or tenacity, but in the God to whom we pray. Like faith, prayer must have an object and the object is Almighty God. Prayer is what accesses the omnipotence, compassion, and justice of the God who has promised to hear and answer the prayers of His people. I was talking with a Christian friend the other day and the subject of prayer came up. My friend said, “I believe in the power of prayer!” I know exactly what she meant to say, and I agree with what she meant. I do not agree, however, that there is power in prayer. I also know that many of you are now scratching your heads. “How can someone with a doctorate in theology not believe in the power of prayer!!?” Please, put the stones away. Let me explain. Sure, there is power associated with prayer. The power is not resident in the words we speak, however; the power is resident in the one to whom we pray. When prayers are answered it is because of the power of God, not because of any virtue in the prayer itself. If prayer itself, the act of praying I mean, was the source of power, then it would make absolutely no difference to whom the prayer was directed. Biblically sound prayers are an expression of one’s faith in God and in His ability to keep His promises. When we cry out in prayer, whether it be in praise or in desperation, we are reaching out to a true and living God who hears and cares and powerfully responds. If this were not so, prayer would be useless. Praise God that He has given believers access to His throne of grace through Christ, our Savior (Hebrews 4:16)! Be encouraged!