Biblical Answer

The Purpose of Prayer: Getting a Hold of God

The purpose of prayer is not just to get things from God, but to get God Himself. Prayer is a means of getting a hold of God, not just a means of getting what we want or need. As Jesus said, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). Prayer is about establishing a relationship with God, not just about getting things from Him. When we pray, we are not just asking for something, we are seeking to align ourselves with God's will and to get a hold of Him.

The Importance of Prayer in Times of Pain

Prayer is essential in times of pain because it helps us to focus on God and His will, rather than our own pain and struggles. When we are in pain, it is easy to become focused on our own suffering and to lose sight of God's presence and power in our lives. But prayer helps us to shift our focus from our own pain to God's presence and power. As the psalmist says, "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Psalm 121:1-2). Prayer helps us to remember that our help comes from God, and that He is always with us, even in times of pain.

The Power of Persistent Prayer

Persistent prayer is a powerful tool for moving the hand of God. When we pray persistently, we demonstrate our commitment to God and His will, and we show that we are willing to trust Him, even when things seem impossible. As the prophet Samuel said, "Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you" (1 Samuel 12:23). When we pray persistently, we are not just asking for something, we are seeking to establish a deeper relationship with God and to trust Him more fully. And when we do, we can experience the power of God in our lives in ways that we never thought possible. As Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7-8).