The effects of our faith in prayer

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | July 16, 2023 | Matthew 21:18-22

KEY VERSE:

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Matthew 21:22 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

In our journey of faith, prayer holds a significant place. Prayer is a divine avenue through which we communicate with our loving Heavenly Father, presenting our joys, concerns, and deepest desires. In Matthew 21:22, Jesus reveals a powerful truth about the effects of faith in prayer. He assures us that whatever we ask in prayer, we will receive if we believe. Faith is the key that unlocks the abundant blessings and answers to our prayers. It is the unwavering confidence in God's goodness, power, and faithfulness. When we approach God in prayer with sincere faith, we demonstrate our trust in His character and His ability to bring about the best outcomes for us.

The effects of faith in prayer are profound. As we come before God with unwavering faith, it aligns our hearts and desires with His will. It deepens our dependence on Him, acknowledging that He is the ultimate source of all things. Faith removes doubt and opens the door to miracles, as we surrender our requests to God. However, it's important to understand that having faith in prayer does not mean that we will always receive exactly what we ask for. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows what is truly best for us, even when we may not fully grasp it. Sometimes, His answer to our prayers may be different from our expectations, but it will always be in accordance with His perfect will. Our faith in prayer should also be accompanied by a heart of surrender. We must submit our desires to God, recognizing that His ways are higher than ours. When we truly trust Him, we can confidently pray, "Not my will, but Yours be done." This surrender reflects our faith in God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things together for our good. As we cultivate a lifestyle of faith in prayer, we draw closer to God and deepen our relationship with Him. It becomes a beautiful journey of intimacy and communion, where we experience His love, peace, and guidance. Our faith is strengthened as we witness the faithfulness of God in answering our prayers, even in ways we may not have anticipated.

FEET AND HANDS FOR MESSAGE:

Let us approach the throne of grace with faith and boldness, knowing that our prayers are not in vain. Let us believe in God's promises and His ability to fulfil them. Our faith in prayer will bring us closer to God and empower us to live lives that reflect His glory. Let us remember that faith in prayer is not a magic formula or a means of manipulating God. It is a posture of the heart that acknowledges God’s sovereignty, trusts in His goodness, and seeks His will above all else.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, I thank you that you are the prayer-answering God. Lord, in moments of doubt and uncertainty, help me remember Your faithfulness throughout history and in my own life. May my faith in prayer deepen, and may I continually seek your presence as I journey in faith. Strengthen my belief in Your power to move mountains and to answer my prayers according to Your perfect will. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!