Yesterday, I got a call from a good friend who has faithfully served his congregation for many years.
He told me about a woman in his church who had been diagnosed with Tinnitus. The ringing noise was so loud, she described it like listening to a large jet engine that never stopped.
Sadly, the doctor informed her there was little that could be done. She would lose her hearing and the loud, constant noise in her ear would continue.
When she told her pastor, he immediately said a prayer asking God to heal her. His prayer was very specific.
Two weeks ago, the doctor told the woman she was healed. The doctor had no explanation as to why. She knew exactly what had happened. A miracle had take place because of a very specific prayer.
Prayer works. I don’t know why but it does. Sometimes God says yes. Sometimes God says no. Sometimes God says wait.
If you have ever wondered if God hears your prayers, the bible is very clear. Your prayers are so important to God, that when you pray, there is silence in heaven so God can lend his full attention to your prayer. (Revelation 8:1-5)
One of the keys to an effective, fruitful prayer life is to be very specific. God is not interested in casual platitudes and hazy generalizations that are about as concrete as a bowl of Jell-O. God wants us to be very specific and clear in why and what we are praying for.
This is what Jesus meant by saying, “When you pray, don’t talk on and on as people do who don’t know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don’t be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask.“ (Matthew 6:7-8)
In some respects, prayer is a holy mystery. I don’t’ fully understand it but I can tell you it works.
Prayer will become the cornerstone of your life, if you make it a regular discipline and are very specific. It will allow you to tackle the many challenges of life with the One who created, redeemed, and sustains you. It’s a good deal.
Take some time to be alone with God in prayer. Know this is where you will find true peace, healing, guidance, and strength. It will make your life much better. I promise.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, you have promised to guide my prayers. (Romans 8:26-27) Help me lay my burdens at your feet. Help me to pray. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Today, I am asking you to be very specific in your prayers about a man I dearly love.
Mark is a member of our church. He has battled cancer for many years. He is an inspiration to our church. The news he got yesterday was not good.
I ask that you pray for Mark today. Lift him up to God and pray that God heal him of this dreaded disease. Your prayers will be much appreciated.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 