Why Pray?

Why Pray?

If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14

AUTHOR AND BIBLE PROFESSOR Harold Lindsell once said, “Why should we expect God to do without prayer what he has promised to do if we pray?” The Bible contains many calls to prayer, including God’s words to Solomon, above. If the people humbled themselves and prayed after they sinned, God would hear them, forgive them, and restore them. His invitation to us is clear: “Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come” (Jeremiah 33:3). The author of Hebrews tells us to “come boldly” to God’s throne, where we will receive mercy and grace (4:16).

We come to God as our Father, knowing that he wants to do good things for his children. But we must be ready to receive them. Thus he says, “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for” (Matthew 7:7). Now, granted, God does not do everything we request. He loves us too much and is too wise to do that. If what we request is not for our ultimate good, then he will do something better.

Couples who learn to pray together are simply responding to God’s invitation. He wants to be involved in your marriage. Praying together is one way of acknowledging that you want his presence and his power. Through prayer, he can change your attitudes and your behavior. Remember, God is love, and he can teach you how to love each other.

Lord, I am amazed that you so often invite us to pray—to communicate with you, the Lord of the universe! I am grateful for the love and guidance you offer. Please help my spouse and me to take the time to pray together. May we “come boldly” to you and through our prayers be brought closer to each other and closer to you.

Prayer