Prayer That Changes Things

Paul taught Timothy basic principles that should be foundations of our prayer lives. These principles can help us unleash the power of prayer, solve more problems, and impact more lives.

Paul knew that prayer is less effective when we are dominated by our own thoughts and interests. We are to lay aside prejudices, personal interests, and emotions pray for everyone, not just friends or those with whom we agree.

In our prayers, we are to focus on God with hearts filled with praise and worship. Overwhelmed by His holiness, forgiveness, and grace, we are to seek His Kingdom, obey His Word, and fulfill His call on our lives.

Paul taught that prayer unites believers. It refocuses our energies away from ourselves and onto God. Prayer provides a forum for solving relationship problems, for healing wounds between husbands and wives, parents and children, enemies and rivals.

Just imagine what would happen if all believers applied the principles Paul taught Timothy. If we prayed constantly, not just in church but in every place. If we prayed out of hearts surrendered to God, with a spirit of worship, with clean hands and pure hearts. If we prayed out of lives completely surrendered to Jesus as Lord. If we prayed laying aside anger, bitterness, or divisions. If, instead of worrying, debating, or criticizing, we prayed more often.

Today, commit yourself to this kind of prayer everywhere you go.