Does Prayer Work?

“Prayer works.” “Prayer doesn’t work.” I’ve heard both sentiments. In fact, I’ve thought both sentiments over the years. Jesus tells us to pray, but if we see any results are they really due to prayer when so many prayers seem to get unanswered? Is it just coincidence? Here are six thoughts.

1. What is the definition of “works?” Does it mean we got what we wanted or we did not get what we wanted?
2. Could there be a deeper issue happening by our words of prayer working or not working? Is it prayer that “works” or doesn’t “work,” or are we saying it is God that works or doesn’t work?
3. Do we think the answer has to do with our prayer? Do we think we are more spiritual or are better Christians or are closer to God if we pray and it “works?” Do we feel we are not up to snuff if we pray and it doesn’t work?
4. When we ask for help from someone, we recognize we are asking from a place of weakness. We cannot do this “thing” on our own and we need help. We actually need humility to go to someone and ask for their help. Do we recognize our weakness as we pray to God? Are we coming from a heart position of humbleness? If not, then where is our heart?
5. Do we trust the One we are asking? If Joey asks his Dad for a new car, and Dad say “no,” does that affect how Joey feels about Dad and does it affect how he thinks Dad feels about him? Do we think God doesn’t care about us if He doesn’t say “yes” to our prayer in our way and our time? Maybe Joey’s Dad, if listened to, actually said – “No, but I will teach you how to find a job, I will drive you to your place of work, I will help you invest your money, and I will guide you in your decision of how to buy a car that is good and you can afford…” Maybe Joey’s Dad had a better way. A wiser way. Might God have a better wiser way? A different timing? A different purpose? And can we still say God is good? God loves me? God cares? God walks this road with me? God is God and there is no other? I will put my trust in God – regardless?
6. Who are we talking to when we pray? “Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.‘” Matthew 28:18. I hear the word authority all the time, but only in a limited fashion in limited areas. But the authority of Jesus? THAT is amazing! All authority. Everywhere. He is the One I want to go to.

If we use the right definition of “works” – then yes, prayer works. It reveals the deep places in our heart. It puts us in our place, and God in His. And it calls us to trust and deepen our relationship with the God who formed us and died for us and who we will reside with for all eternity.

I’ll keep praying.