Biblical Answer

The Purpose of Prayer: Understanding the Why

Prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, and yet, many of us struggle to understand its purpose. We may feel that our prayers are not being answered, or that they are not making a difference in our lives or in the world. We may even wonder if prayer is necessary at all, given that God is in control and already knows how everything will turn out. However, the Bible teaches us that prayer is not just a way of asking God to change circumstances or feelings, but rather a means of deepening our relationship with Him and seeking His guidance and strength in our daily lives.

The Nature of Prayer: Dependence on God

The problem with many of our prayers is that they are not truly dependent on God. We often pray as if we are trying to manipulate God into doing what we want Him to do, rather than humbly seeking His will and guidance. This attitude of self-sufficiency is a major obstacle to effective prayer. When we think we can achieve our goals without God's help, we do not need to ask Him for anything. However, when we recognize our dependence on God and acknowledge our limitations, we open ourselves up to the possibility of life-changing prayers. As the Bible says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6).

The Power of Prayer: Changing Us and the World

While prayer may not always change our circumstances, it can certainly change us. When we pray, we are not just asking God to change things, but also to change us. We are seeking His guidance, strength, and wisdom to navigate the challenges of life. As we pray, we are reminded of our dependence on God and our need for His help. This awareness can lead to a deeper sense of humility, trust, and obedience, which can have a profound impact on our lives and the world around us. As the Bible says, "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17), not because God needs our prayers to change the course of events, but because we need prayer to change us and to deepen our relationship with Him. When we pray, we are not just asking God to do something for us, but also to do something in us. This is the true purpose of prayer, and it is a purpose that can bring about remarkable changes in our lives and in the world.