Prayer has been emphasized in chapter 4 when we looked at Jabez life. This passage records the genealogy of Reuben who inherited land on the east side of the Jordan river. His success in occupying the inherited land is attributed solely to their prayer. This verse says, “?for they cried out to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him. ”
Prayer is always a controversial subject. I would argue that God always answers our prayers, but he does so in different ways. Sometimes he says “no.” Sometimes he says, “maybe.” Sometimes he says “not now” and sometimes he says “yes.” But that’s the way every situation in our lives will turn out. So why should we pray?
R. A. Torrey once answered that question from the scriptures. He says we should pray…
• Because there is a devil, and prayer is a God-appointed way to resist Him (?Eph. 6:12–13?, 18).
• Because prayer is God’s way for us to obtain what we need from Him (?Luke. 11:3–13?; ?Jas. 4:2?).
• Because prayer is the means God has appointed for us to find “?grace to help in time of need?” (?Heb. 4:16?).
• Because prayer with thanksgiving is God’s way for us to obtain freedom from anxiety and to receive “?the peace of God?” (?Phil. 4:6–7?).
Notice the end of 1 Chronicles 5:20. It says “…(God) granted their urgent plea because they trusted in Him.” I believe God wants us to acknowledge our trust and confidence in him and we do that through prayer. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to prayer without ceasing. God wants us to talk with Him, acknowledge His sovereignty over all the details of our life, and turn to him in our times of need. When we look to God it strengthens our relationship with Him. What better reason can there be to pray?
Chuck
“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)