April 16, 2012 Why Pray?

Why Pray?

Mark 9:28-29 After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 29 He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

YOU may ask, “Why pray if God already knows what’s happening?” Answer: He wants your faith. God desires you to be engaged in faithfully seeking his power to guide your life.
This entire incident we’ve viewed over the past few days is all about faith. Jesus sees that his disciples, can’t drive out the demon. He challenges the boy’s father to a believing faith, and he shows these witnesses that he, the Lord and Savior, will respond if faithfully asked.
“If I can?” Jesus asked the doubting father. “O unbelieving generation.” Jesus chastises his disciples. Yes, Jesus wants you to pray in faith that he will heal you, that he will change you, and that he will bring to you the will of God the Father.
Sometimes we parents do this with our children. You wait for them to ask for a ride to the store, a special treat, or a game of catch. You’re often willing to do what they desire. You often know what they desire. Yet you wait, because you want them to faithfully feel they can come to you. You want them to trust you, don’t you? Of course you do. You’re a good parent, and trust is a big part of a loving, close relationship.
That’s who your God is. He made you in his image. Your care for your child reflects his care for you. He wants you to faithfully ask him your desires and your needs, so you can grow into a faithful, loving friendship with him.

Pause and consider prayer will grow your love relationship with Jesus.