I never grow weary of writing about prayer because to me, it’s the heart of our spiritual communication with God. Even though I believe that our Heavenly Father listens, and all things are possible with Him, I must admit I do not pray like I should. We realize our spirit is willing but unfortunately, our flesh is weak and has every intention to prevent us from connecting with the Almighty. In fact, there is enmity between the carnal mind that is governed by our human nature, and it literally fights against our new transformed spirit, which is dedicated to knowing and serving God. This explains why praying is much easier to talk about than to do. As the popular English minister, F.B. Meyer once said, “The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but neglected prayer.” 

Of course, we know there is no problem too large or too small for the Lord to take care of. His long list of divine attributes includes being the Creator and Authority over all things, and accepting that He is in total control gives us a wonderful sense of peace and security. We are motivated to pray when convinced that He desires to intervene, and is concerned with even the smallest details of our life. He may not always give us the answer we are seeking, but that does not take away from the reality that He is working in our best interest. “Do not be worried or anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus,” Philippians 4:6-7. 

The other day, I was talking with the Lord about a certain problem I was facing and how I needed Him to do the impossible. I felt compelled to kneel at the couch and pour my heart out to Him. Two hours later I received an email that opened the exact door that had been locked for several months. This was not a coincidence, and I am convinced it is just one of the millions of daily demonstrations where God responds to those who cry out to Him according to His perfect will. Jeremiah 29:12 says, “You shall call upon Me, and you shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you.” 

Whatever you are praying for today, remember that God knows your thoughts and listens to every word we say. He is aware of our situation and has seen our tears even in the darkest night. This is not a guarantee we will receive everything we ask for, as we must consider His requirements and timing, but He wants us to know that He shares our concern and desires more than anything to have a personal relationship with us. We are humbled in His presence and love and praise Him not only for what He can do, but most of all just for who He is.

Dr. Holland lives in Central Kentucky with his wife Cheryl, where he is a Christian author, outreach minister and community chaplain. To learn more visit billyhollandministries.com.