The Transformative Power of Prayer

What does it take to be a mature disciple? A mature disciple is dedicated to the great commandment: to love God and to love each other, and they are committed to the great commission to share the good news. A mature disciple is seeking for themselves and others to be transformed into the image of Christ.

One essential aspect of a mature disciple is that they believe in the power of prayer. People often view prayer as a way to get something from God they don’t have, as if prayer is a letter to Santa Claus asking for presents. Prayer is much bigger than this. It is about connecting with God and wanting to be involved in God’s plans here on earth. It can be about sharing our needs, but it’s really about Him and His actions. Prayer is powerful and effective, transporting us into His realm and bringing His realm into our presence. 

Intimacy with God

Prayer is the most direct way to communicate with God; it is an intimate time between ourselves and our Lord. It is a sacred time of meeting God where He is. No matter what is going on in our life, regardless of the circumstances or situation, prayer is a way to seek solace, guidance, love and acceptance. We can come before the Creator of heaven and earth and talk to him about whatever is happening, big or small, good or bad. We are asked to call Him Father and treat him like a trusted friend. 

God answers prayer 

I know that most of our readers have spent their lives, or at least much of their lives, believing in the power of prayer. We have counted on prayer throughout our spiritual journey, and we know God answers those prayers, even if they are not the way we expect them to be. Still, after years of prayer, there can be moments of doubt or uncertainty. We can deepen our prayer and remember how God has responded to our needs and listened to our struggles and joys. 

Matthew 7:7-11 NLT 

7 Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

9 “You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? 10 Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! 11 So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him. 

Prayer changes us

Prayer does change not only our circumstances, but it can also change us from within ourselves. Making consistent and intentional prayer time helps us build discipline, reflect, and practise hearing the direction of the Holy Spirit. The act of prayer itself is transformative. Prayer is far more significant than asking for what we need. More than asking God to get involved in our lives and our world, it’s us being involved in His kingdom.

God tells us that if His people will pray, He will hear from heaven:

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)

Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

 Prayer changes those we work with

The people that we work with have all had their journeys. Some have encountered difficulties and trauma. Some are depleted or struggling. Our expertise is helpful to our clients. However, we can not do this alone. God brings the transformation. Our role and privilege is to bring this person into God’s presence so God can do His thing. This reminds our clients that communicating with God will sustain their vitality. 

Reflection Questions: 

• How is your prayer life?
• What can help you enhance it?