A Deeper Level of Prayer

The disciples had failed, and couldn’t understand why. They tried to apply what they had learned from Jesus. They loved God and knew His Word, but couldn’t deliver a demon from a young boy. Clearly confused, they asked Jesus, “Why could we not cast it out?”

His answer may have surprised them. He said that the key was “prayer and fasting.”

They certainly thought that they were men of prayer, who engaged in fasting. But Jesus was talking about a deeper and more intense commitment. A life of passionate, continual prayer. Prayer that was central to their existence. Prayer that was the starting point for their decisions and the foundation for their thoughts.

After Jesus departed into heaven, they clearly applied this lesson. Facing an uncertain future, they turned to prayer as they “with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:14). This was the atmosphere in which the Holy Spirit was poured out on them. And after the great gathering on the Day of Pentecost, they continued this devotion to prayer (Acts 2:42).

We, too, may think that we are people of prayer. But Jesus challenges us to embrace prayer at a far deeper level. Not just praying casually or once in a while but realizing that prayer is the gateway to spiritual growth and power.

As we become more committed to prayer, we draw nearer to the Father. Our thoughts are transformed. We become more attuned to His Spirit. We think His thoughts, and less the thoughts of the flesh or the world.

If you want transforming spiritual authority and power, make a greater commitment to prayer. When you are frustrated, turn to prayer. When you face challenges, turn to prayer. When you have needs, turn to prayer. When you have failed, turn to prayer. Let God equip and prepare you through prayer.