Pastor’s Pen
By Dr. Robin Brumfield
When we think of Christian discipline, there is one discipline that we put into action more frequently and with more vigor than all the others. It is the discipline of prayer. We go to the Lord in prayer frequently and seek His divine power to intervene in our daily lives.
In the spring of 1994, The Dallas Morning News surveyed 1,011 adults in far north Texas counties about their beliefs and practices. Eighty-seven percent of the respondents said they believe prayer gets results, with slightly more women (93%) than men (80%) believing in prayer. If that same poll was taken in the counties surrounding and including Newton county, I believe the results would hold true, as well.
Yes, we believe that prayer works, but we need to put shoe leather to our prayer requests. In the book of 1 Samuel, Hannah was beside herself because she was married, wanting a child, and yet barren. She went to the temple and poured her heart out to the Lord. Eli, the priest saw her, and when he found out the reason for her despair, replied: “Then Eli answered and said, ‘Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition you have asked of Him’” (1:17).
The New Testament tells us the same principle: “You do not have, because you do not ask” (James 4:2). The Lord is waiting to answer our request, so He can bless us to the fullest. Let’s not delay. We believe in prayer, thus let us seek the Lord in our hour of need for Him to intervene in our lives. Like Eli said, may “the God of Israel grant your petition you have asked of Him.” Say a quick prayer to the Lord right now!!!! He is still in the answering business!
