STRONGER IN PRAYER
Emphasizing the importance of prayer, we embark on a new teaching series titled “Take Charge,” which aims to guide us through the upcoming months leading to Easter. For those who may have missed our previous series on “Stronger in Generosity,” I encourage you to revisit the messages, particularly “The Liberal Soul.” This message offers profound insights that can transform our understanding of generosity and our obligation to be abundant in our relationship with God. Given the recent inclement weather that has prevented some from attending church services, it is crucial to engage with this material repeatedly to fully grasp its significance and apply its teachings in our lives.
In the Gospel of Luke, we find a pivotal moment when the disciples recognized the necessity of taking charge of their spiritual lives through prayer. Observing the profound impact of prayer in the lives of Jesus and John the Baptist, they understood that prayer is not merely an optional practice but a fundamental component of their faith journey. In Luke 11:1, the narrative illustrates how the disciples came to this realization, akin to a core course in an academic curriculum—one that is essential for graduation. Reflecting on my own academic experiences, particularly during my master’s studies in International Law at the University of Lagos, I recall the anxiety surrounding critical courses like General Principles of Jurisprudence. Just as those courses were vital for academic success, so too is prayer indispensable for spiritual growth and maturity.
On that particular day, I arrived at the examination venue, navigating through the crowd with a sense of determination, despite the palpable tension in the air as many individuals were visibly anxious and perspiring. We had been informed that the exam would last approximately six hours, and the instructions were quite accommodating; we were allowed to take breaks for meals or restroom visits as needed. The professor overseeing the exam, a distinguished figure known as Professor Alaba Ogunsowo, emphasized the importance of thorough preparation, stating that each student was required to produce a minimum of 25 fullscap sheets of written work to pass. He articulated the expectations clearly, underscoring the significance of this core course in our academic journey, as failure in this subject would render all other efforts futile.
As I settled into my seat, I resolved to give my best effort, knowing that a single attempt was all I desired; the prospect of retaking the exam was unappealing. The exam was grueling, and I found myself writing until my hand ached, necessitating brief stretches to alleviate the strain. The goal was to aim for around 30 sheets, a common benchmark among law students who are accustomed to extensive writing. This experience resonated with a profound realization about the nature of core courses in life, akin to the spiritual lessons learned by the disciples of Jesus in Luke chapter 11. When they approached Him after witnessing His prayer, they sought guidance, asking Him to teach them to pray just as John had instructed his followers. This moment reflects the understanding that, much like in our academic pursuits, there are essential lessons and practices that must be mastered to progress effectively in our respective journeys.
The impact of prayer has become evident, as it is understood that remaining stagnant is not an option; rather, it is through prayer that we can instigate change. The disciples observed the miraculous occurrences surrounding Jesus and recognized that these transformations were the result of dedicated prayer. In Luke 11:1, it is recorded that while Jesus was engaged in prayer at a specific location, one of His disciples approached Him with a request: “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” In response, Jesus provided a model for prayer, instructing them to address God as “Our Father in heaven,” and to honor His name, seek His kingdom, and request daily sustenance while also emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and deliverance from temptation.
Furthermore, Jesus illustrated the power of persistence in prayer through a parable. He posed a scenario in which a man, in need of bread for an unexpected guest, approaches a friend at midnight. Despite the friend’s initial reluctance to help due to the late hour, Jesus emphasized that the man’s persistence would ultimately compel his friend to provide the necessary loaves. This teaching underscores the principle that, while friendship may not guarantee assistance, unwavering determination in seeking help can yield results. Jesus concluded with a promise that those who ask will receive, those who seek will find, and those who knock will have doors opened to them, reinforcing the notion that God, as a loving Father, will respond to the genuine needs of His children rather than offering them something harmful.
If individuals, despite their flawed nature, are capable of providing good gifts to their children, one can only imagine the extent of generosity that the heavenly Father possesses in bestowing the Holy Spirit upon those who earnestly seek Him. The Lord blesses the reading of His word, reminding us of the profound relationship between divine benevolence and human supplication. It is crucial to understand that becoming a devoted follower of Jesus Christ necessitates a commitment to prayer; it is not merely an optional practice to be engaged in at one’s convenience. Prayer serves as a fundamental aspect of our spiritual journey, and neglecting it can lead to stagnation in our faith. Many individuals find themselves in a passive state, allowing circumstances to unfold without taking decisive action.
The teachings of Jesus emphasize that a life of faith is not characterized by resignation to fate, as encapsulated in the phrase “que sera sera.” Instead, Jesus instructs us to confront challenges head-on, as illustrated in Mark 11:22-24, where He encourages believers to speak to mountains and command them to move. This directive underscores the importance of active faith and the power of our words. It is easy to become complacent and develop excuses for the obstacles in our lives, opting for alternative methods to navigate around them rather than addressing the root issues. However, Jesus clearly states that we are called to ask and receive, to knock and have doors opened, reinforcing the notion that we should not settle for a life where mountains remain unchallenged.
The teachings of Jesus encompassed various profound principles, including the significance of opportunity, persistence, and unwavering faith in the power of prayer.
He emphasized that prayer is not merely a ritual but a vital means of communication with God, encompassing elements of adoration, confession, supplication, and thanksgiving. This dialogue with the divine is portrayed as a transformative act, one that has the potential to influence the very fabric of the world. In the biblical context, particularly in Philippians 4:6, the Apostle Paul articulates the essence of this communication, urging believers to approach God without anxiety, but rather through prayer and supplication, coupled with gratitude. The promise that follows is the peace of God, which transcends human understanding, serving as a protective force for the heart and mind of the believer.
Furthermore, Jesus highlighted the importance of a personal relationship with God in the context of prayer. Requests are made not to a distant stranger but to a being with whom one shares a deep and ongoing connection. This relational aspect is illustrated through the analogy of a late-night visit to a friend, where the familiarity and trust built over time allow for such requests to be made. In contrast, approaching an unknown neighbor for help in the dead of night would likely be met with suspicion and fear, underscoring the necessity of relationship in prayer. The essence of this teaching is that prayer is rooted in a profound connection with God, enabling believers to approach Him with confidence and assurance, knowing that their requests are heard and valued.
The notion that one might initially dismiss the significance of relationships in the context of prayer is a common misconception. However, it is essential to recognize that the foundation of effective prayer lies in the strength of one’s relationships, particularly the relationship with God. When one combines this foundational relationship with persistence, the results can be transformative. The teachings of Jesus emphasize that through prayer, even those who may seem ordinary can achieve remarkable outcomes. This principle is illustrated in the biblical narrative, where the power of prayer is highlighted as a means through which individuals can make significant requests and see them fulfilled.
A compelling example of this is found in the account of Elijah, as detailed in James chapter 5, verses 17-18. The scripture describes Elijah as an ordinary man, possessing the same human vulnerabilities that we all experience. Despite these frailties, he fervently prayed for a drought, which lasted for three and a half years, and later prayed for rain, which was granted. This narrative serves to remind us that prayer should not be an occasional act reserved for times of crisis, but rather a consistent practice woven into the fabric of daily life. The tendency to neglect prayer can often stem from a misplaced sense of self-sufficiency, leading individuals to rely solely on their own understanding. As we delve deeper into this topic throughout the month, it is crucial to embrace prayer as a vital aspect of our existence, rather than a mere tool to be employed in moments of desperation.
Elijah, as depicted in the Bible, was an ordinary individual, much like any of us. In my earlier remarks during the first service, I highlighted a common tendency among people to compare their own behind-the-scenes experiences with the public personas of others. In our lives, we often find ourselves engrossed in our private struggles, overshadowing the polished narratives we present to the world. For instance, when individuals encounter me in this church, they may express admiration for my simplicity and approachability, often sharing their perceptions on social media. However, what they see is merely my public persona; they are unaware of the complexities and challenges I may face in my personal life. Similarly, one might observe a well-dressed husband in church and fail to recognize the chaos that may have preceded his departure, such as a disheveled home and a frustrated spouse. This disparity between our public appearances and private realities is a crucial aspect of human experience.
In a similar vein, one might notice a young woman in church exuding confidence and grace, prompting comparisons to a spouse who has undergone the physical changes of motherhood. Such comparisons are rooted in the superficiality of front-stage life, which the scripture addresses. It is essential to remember that even figures like Elijah had their own struggles and imperfections; he experienced moments of despair and irrationality yet still managed to pray fervently, leading to significant outcomes. This serves as a reminder that one does not need to possess extraordinary spiritual prowess to engage in prayer and expect divine responses. The essence of the message is that everyone, regardless of their perceived spiritual stature, can connect with God through prayer, and remarkable things can occur as a result.
Elijah was a man who shared in the same human vulnerabilities and weaknesses that we all experience. However, the Bible encourages us in Hebrews 4:16 to approach the throne of grace with confidence, allowing us to receive mercy and find grace in our times of need. This assurance stems from the understanding that our righteousness is derived from God, not from our own merits, and that we come before Him through the sacrifice of the Lamb, rather than through our personal achievements. This foundational belief empowers us to engage in prayer with conviction, leading to tangible results. It is crucial to remember this truth, especially when witnessing others share their testimonies; do not allow your own struggles to diminish your faith or convince you that your prayers are ineffective. The scripture assures us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. When we present ourselves under the banner of Jesus’ righteousness, we position ourselves to receive answers to our prayers.
The power of prayer enables ordinary individuals to accomplish remarkable feats, and it is imperative for someone to seize this opportunity and strive for extraordinary achievements in the current year. Do not let the year pass without making a significant impact; instead, take action in the spiritual realm. It is essential to recognize that the passage of time should not be treated passively, as if events will unfold on their own. Jesus has granted us authority, and it is our responsibility to utilize that power to effect change. In the realms of science, we learn that power is defined as the capacity to perform work; thus, when we are endowed with power, we must actively engage in moving and transforming our circumstances.
This morning, I invite you to engage with me as we delve into some significant aspects of prayer that will serve as a foundation for our discussions throughout the month. It is essential to recognize that prayer is a privilege afforded to us through our access to God. The essence of prayer transcends mere requests for assistance or daily sustenance, as exemplified by Jesus’ instruction to pray, beginning with the words “Our Father.” This opening emphasizes the relational aspect of prayer, highlighting that our connection with God grants us the privilege of access. Without this relationship, our attempts to communicate may go unanswered, much like a phone call to a stranger who may not feel compelled to respond. The depth of our relationship with God directly influences the efficacy of our prayers, and it is crucial to understand that the foundation of prayer lies in this access we have to the divine.
Consider the extraordinary nature of this privilege: the ability to communicate with the most powerful Being at any moment and as frequently as we wish. This is a remarkable opportunity that many would strive to attain in other contexts, such as having direct access to a prominent leader like the President of Nigeria. Imagine being able to reach out to such an individual whenever you desire, knowing that they would respond unless engaged in critical matters. This level of access is sought after by many, yet we possess an even greater privilege in our relationship with God, the Father of all spirits. The ability to connect with Him is not only a profound blessing but also a testament to the depth of our relationship, which allows us to approach Him with confidence and assurance.
You possess a unique relationship with the Almighty, the Creator of all that exists, who governs not only the United Nations but all nations across heaven and earth. This divine being, who is the architect of the universe, is perpetually present and vigilant, as the scriptures affirm that He neither sleeps nor slumbers. Unlike human leaders who convene meetings, He embodies the essence of every gathering, always accessible to those who seek Him. Despite this profound privilege, many individuals fail to fully appreciate the significance of such access. While some may go to great lengths, even risking their lives, to gain entry into prestigious places like Aso Rock, your access is granted through a relationship with the King of Kings. The manner in which you enter such spaces will determine your experience; without the divine presence, your exit may mirror your entrance.
Reflecting on the concept of access, one can draw parallels to personal experiences of privilege. For instance, during travels, one may find themselves exhausted and longing for the comfort of exclusive lounges, only to witness others enjoying the benefits of their status. This stark contrast highlights the value of access, which often goes unrecognized until one is denied entry. A personal encounter with a high-ranking official, where a simple gesture of recognition transformed the atmosphere, serves as a reminder of the power of access. In that moment, I felt a profound connection, akin to the experience of entering God’s presence, where one engages with a force far greater than anything else in existence. This realization underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing the divine access we have, which transcends all earthly privileges.
When I raise my hands in prayer each morning, and you sing songs that invite us into the Holy of Holies, such as “Let Me In by the Blood of the Lamb,” it serves as a reminder of our divine access. This access is granted through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ, which represents the ultimate price He paid for our ability to approach God. The significance of this privilege cannot be overstated; it is the cornerstone of our salvation. The Scriptures affirm this in verses 9 and 10, where it is revealed that God’s love was made manifest through the sending of His only begotten Son, allowing us to live through Him. This love is not predicated on our own actions but is a testament to God’s grace, as He sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. The substitutionary death of Jesus is what restores our access to God, a privilege that sin had previously denied us.
In Hebrews 4:16, we are encouraged to approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that we have been granted this access. For those who may not yet have accepted Christ, there will be an opportunity to do so shortly. It is essential to understand that for those who are saved, our righteousness is not derived from our own merits but is a gift made possible by the blood of Jesus. When entering God’s presence, it is crucial to reject any feelings of condemnation that the enemy may impose, reminding ourselves that we have been forgiven and are children of God. This understanding empowers us to stand boldly before our Father and present our requests. Many individuals refrain from praying due to a sense of guilt or the belief that God is displeased with them. It is vital to confront these feelings, as they hinder our ability to communicate with God and fully embrace the access we have through Christ.
The profound love of God for humanity is encapsulated in the scripture John 3:16, which states that He gave His only begotten Son. This divine act grants us privileged access to His presence, a gift that we should cherish and maximize. As we enter the month of March, it is essential to declare our commitment to prayer and intercession. We must resolve to keep our voices raised in supplication, standing in the gap for our friends and family, and bringing our requests before God. By doing so, we can anticipate experiencing open heavens and divine favor in our lives. Let us affirm this commitment with a resounding “Amen,” recognizing the importance of our prayers in fostering a deeper connection with the Almighty.
It is crucial to understand that prayer is not merely a ritual but a lifestyle that nurtures intimacy with God. Jesus exemplified this principle, demonstrating that prayer is rooted in relationship rather than mere requests for our needs. Just as we prioritize time with our loved ones, we must also dedicate time to connect with God, who desires a close relationship with us. The essence of prayer transcends the notion of seeking favors; it is fundamentally about deepening our bond with the Creator. We must be cautious not to approach prayer with a mindset shaped by traditional beliefs that view it as a transactional interaction. Instead, we should embrace prayer as an opportunity to cultivate our relationship with God, understanding that our communion with Him is the true purpose of our supplications.
Some individuals identify as Christians, yet their relationship with God resembles a marriage devoid of intimacy. In common law, intimacy is often regarded as the foundation that solidifies a marriage. If a couple remains together for an extended period without engaging in any form of intimacy, the validity of their marriage may be questioned. This analogy extends to the spiritual realm, where believers may profess their faith but lack a deep, personal connection with Christ. The church is often referred to as the bride of Christ, and just as a married couple should nurture their relationship, Christians are called to cultivate their bond with God through prayer and communion.
Prayer transcends mere requests for personal needs; it should embody a genuine dialogue with God.
Instead of solely asking for blessings or assistance, believers ought to engage in conversations that reflect their love and commitment to God. This includes inquiring about His desires and how they can contribute to His work on Earth. When Jesus instructed His followers to pray, He emphasized the importance of acknowledging God’s holiness and seeking to understand His kingdom’s agenda. The phrase “Your kingdom come” invites believers to participate actively in God’s plans, demonstrating a willingness to serve and love Him. Unfortunately, many approach prayer with a childlike simplicity, focusing solely on their immediate needs rather than fostering a deeper relationship with the divine.
Have you ever encountered an adult who wakes up in the morning and immediately expresses hunger? One might wonder if such behavior warrants a call to a psychiatrist, as it raises questions about the individual’s state of mind. This peculiar scenario prompts reflection on how some celestial beings observe believers with a sense of bewilderment, questioning the nature of humanity. It is indeed curious when someone, in the stillness of the night, begins their prayers with a demand for the demise of their adversaries, followed by a request for sustenance. In such moments, one might imagine the divine response, pondering why there is a lack of basic courtesy in these interactions. Prayer, at its core, is meant to foster intimacy; it is a dialogue that seeks to understand and connect with the divine. God desires this closeness, as evidenced in Revelation 3:20, where it is stated that He stands at the door and knocks, inviting those who hear His voice to share a meal with Him. Similarly, Isaiah 1:18 emphasizes God’s willingness to engage in reasoning with humanity, highlighting His approachability and desire for a meaningful relationship.
Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that prayer serves as a foundation for establishing a believer’s influence. In the realm of prayer, one cultivates their spiritual authority and impact. To illustrate this concept, consider a scenario in Lagos, Nigeria, where an individual is unjustly stopped by a police officer. The demonstration of influence in such a situation does not stem from confrontational dialogue but rather from the ability to leverage connections. If one possesses influence, they might simply reach for their phone to contact a higher authority, such as the Commissioner of Police or an Area Commander, to address the situation calmly. This approach underscores the idea that true influence is not about exerting power through aggression but rather about navigating circumstances with wisdom and understanding, much like the intimate relationship God seeks with His followers through prayer.
When faced with a situation where one might typically resort to verbal conflict, it is essential to recognize the underlying spiritual dynamics at play. For instance, if a person finds themselves in a disagreement with their spouse, the immediate reaction may be to retaliate with harsh words. However, a more constructive approach would involve retreating to a place of prayer, where one can address the spiritual forces that may be contributing to the discord. This method mirrors the way one might seek assistance from a higher authority, such as contacting an area commander to resolve an issue. By invoking spiritual influence through prayer, one can effectively confront the confusion and turmoil that may be affecting their home life, rather than engaging in a futile exchange of blame and accusations.
Moreover, it is crucial to understand that the true battle lies not with the individuals involved but with the spiritual entities that seek to disrupt harmony. The Bible emphasizes that our struggles are not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers that operate in the unseen realm. By focusing on prayer as a means of exerting influence, one can call upon divine authority to restore order and peace. In doing so, it is possible to witness a transformation in the dynamics of the relationship, as the spouse may soon express remorse for their behavior, leading to reconciliation. This approach not only resolves immediate conflicts but also fortifies the spiritual foundation of the home, ensuring that the influence of negativity is diminished and harmony is restored.
You assert that the principle of “fire for fire” reflects your influence, yet it is crucial to recognize that true influence is not wielded in such a manner. Are you still with me? Prayer serves as a foundational element in establishing our influence, and I would like to emphasize the significance of prayer in the pursuit of holiness. A Christian who engages in sincere prayer cannot simultaneously live in sin, unless their prayers are merely ritualistic. The Scriptures indicate that standing in the presence of God transforms our conscience; specifically, the blood of Jesus cleanses our conscience from dead works, as articulated in Hebrews chapter 9. This chapter highlights that Christ entered the Most Holy Place with His own blood, securing eternal redemption, contrasting the Old Testament practices of animal sacrifices that only purified the flesh.
The passage underscores the profound impact of Christ’s sacrifice, which offers a far greater cleansing of our conscience, enabling us to serve the living God. Engaging in genuine prayer allows believers to connect with the essence of Christ, as His blood continually purges our conscience from dead works. In today’s world, it is concerning to observe that some believers exhibit behaviors akin to those of non-believers, lacking a proper understanding of conscience. Many still engage in religious prayers, which can be likened to the hypocritical practices described by Jesus in Matthew 6. In this passage, He warns against the empty rituals of those who seek to be seen and heard rather than genuinely connecting with God through their prayers and fasting.
Prayer is not merely a means to gain respect as a devout individual; rather, it is an expression of our profound relationship with God, facilitated through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ. This sacred connection allows us to engage deeply with the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection. When we approach prayer with this understanding, we experience a transformative interaction that reveals our true selves, much like the experience of the prophet Isaiah. In Isaiah chapter 6, verses 1 to 6, we witness Isaiah’s encounter with the divine, where he acknowledges his unclean lips upon seeing God’s glory. This moment of revelation is pivotal, as it leads to his cleansing by an angel, symbolizing the purifying effect of sincere prayer.
In the realm of prayer, individuals often come to a realization of their shortcomings, prompting them to seek reconciliation and make amends without external prompting. This intrinsic motivation to improve oneself is a powerful outcome of engaging in prayer. If we aspire to cultivate holiness in our lives, it is essential to embrace a life of prayer. It is imperative to harness the spiritual authority that prayer provides, enabling us to confront and overcome the challenges that seek to impede our progress. The example of Elijah, who, despite sharing our human vulnerabilities, was able to effect change through his prayers, serves as a reminder of the potential that lies within each of us. As we commit to prayer during this season, we can anticipate significant movements and breakthroughs in our lives.