For prayer to have the effectiveness God intends, it must be according to God’s will (Matthew 6:7; James 1:6-7; James 4:3; 1 Peter 3:12). When it is according to His will, its value is enormous (James 5:16). When Christians are in difficult situations, we should ask ourselves, (as the hymn encourages) “Did You Think to Pray?”
When we know someone in a tough situation, do we pray for him or her like the disciples did for Peter (Acts 12:5)?
When someone has wronged us, do we seek revenge, or pray for them, just as Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34; cf. Matthew 5:44; Acts 7:60)?
When we see evil, do we become angry at those in sin, or do we pray that God “will send forth labourers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:38) to help save sinners?
When those in authority make decisions that we disagree with, do we murmur, or pray “for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” (1 Timothy 2:2)?
When trials come our way, are we anxious about them, or do we pray as instructed, “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7)?
We must trust prayer’s power, and obey Philippians 4:6: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
– Michael Hickox