Why Do We Pray?

Why do we pray, anyway? If our prayers should end with, "Thy will be done," does it really matter? Isn't God going to do what He is going to do anyway? We could certainly agree with C. S. Lewis, who said, "I pray not because it changes God; I pray because it changes me." Indeed, who can walk away from an intense session of prayer and not be positively affected?

We could also agree with Spurgeon, who said, "It is better to be heard than to be answered." Aren't you glad that God has not always answered your prayers exactly as you wanted? Even Garth Brooks - not a theologian to my knowledge - can thank God for unanswered prayers!

But, really, do Lewis' and Spurgeon's words alone satisfy, profound though they may be? A few years ago, I attended a conference in Nashville at which I heard John Ortberg preach the entire book of Job in 45 minutes! I hope to one day share some of that great insight with our congregation and title the message: "The Book of Job - Really!"

In his message, Ortberg pointed out that in the Bible you will find the only religious writings (I have not researched this, but have no reason to doubt it) in which the adherents complain to their God. You understand what he was saying, right? Some of the language in the Psalms is a bit surprising, when you think about it. "Why have you forsaken me, Lord?" "How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? Look on me and answer, O Lord my God!" Rather presumptuous to speak with God that way, don't you think?

Apparently not. The Holy Spirit led David and others to write in such a manner. Why do we complain? Two reasons, according to Ortberg - 1) We know that God cares; and 2) We know that God is able to do something about our plight. WOW! That's a great comfort, isn't it?

Now, let's not lose perspective - we still must pray "Thy will be done," but those words (as I have previously noted) are more suited at the end of our prayers than at the beginning. If you really believe that God is sovereign (and if we do not believe that, then let's check something else out, right - of course we believe that), then we also believe He is powerful enough to change our circumstances. In addition, we believe that He is wise enough to do the right thing, whether we think it to be the right thing or not. Finally, we believe He is good enough to love us, even when life is excruciatingly painful. A better day is coming for all who follow Jesus!

In the meantime, we will approach the throne of heaven with confidence, as we are invited to do. It is more than evident that many of you went to the Father on Linda's behalf last week when we spoke of her discouragement in the mornings. Satan has been kept at bay, on that front, surely because of your prayers! Thank you! Today, Linda is scheduled to have her head shaved in preparation for a wig - if the wig comes in today. As you can imagine, it will be an emotional day for her. Please pray, whether you read this before Friday afternoon or not.

Much is happening on the medical front, and much of it is encouraging. We will know more next week and will give a detailed explanation at that time. Until then, keep praying for a miracle! And, keep praying that we will glorify Him, no matter what. God, as we have noted, is sovereign, wise, and kind - He will do what is right. None of us has assurance of tomorrow - but if we believe that Jesus died for our sins and have given Him control of our lives, we have a hope that transcends this present earthly experience, which even in 21st century America ain't all that great!

God bless every one of you! Thank you for praying - it makes a difference, you know!