James 5:16b The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man (or woman) avails much.

Prayer is essential in the life of every believer. It is the direct channel that leads to open communication with God as we lift up and entrust our requests to Him.

Prayer is vital, but we need to make sure that our prayers are in alignment with God’s will for our lives. Even though we pray about a certain situation, it doesn’t mean that God will answer in the affirmative. He may have a different purpose for your circumstances. It may be difficult to accept, but sometimes, He says “No” to our requests. This can be discouraging especially when we think His answer should be “Yes”. This has happened to me on a few occasions. It was disappointing to say the least, but God had a much better plan for each of my situations. Over the years, I’ve learned to embrace His “No’s” too. His answers of “No” has helped me to view my circumstances from an eternal perspective while giving me the assurance to realize His “No” answers also serve as a means of protecting me from something that I’m unable to see or comprehend in the moment and later on down the line. The Lord sees the overall picture. His ways are higher than my ways (Isaiah 55:9b…). Knowing this fact has encouraged me to rest in the Lord and to trust His plan for my life which is far better. It also encourages me to pray in the Spirit according to His will for my life.

Matthew 26:39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying. “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.

Ladies, I encourage you to seek to become a godly woman of prayer. Don’t be afraid to entrust your prayers to God. He will be faithful to answer each one according to His perfect plan for your life. He may answer either “Yes”, “No”, or “Wait”. Whatever answer He gives, embrace it and accept it. Realize that He’s looking out for your best interest and all things are working together for your good and for His glory (Romans 8:28). When He closes a door, don’t lose heart; instead, rejoice because He’s getting ready to open another door to something far greater and exceedingly better than anything you can ever imagine. God is a good God. He’s Sovereign and His plans are always good. Trust Him my dear sister, take courage, and pray! God knows best!!!

Luke 18:1b Men (or women) always ought to pray and not lose heart.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made to God.

Even when we don’t understand our circumstances, we can be confident in God’s grace and guidance. – Dr. David Jeremiah