I tucked a new and revised copy of a twenty-year-old book entitled, Too Busy Not To Pray, by Bill Hybels into my carry-on bag this morning on my way to the airport. Halfway through Chapter One, I decided it was too good not to share. In it Bill tells us, “God’s prevailing power is released in the lives of people who pray.” That divine power may come in the form of wisdom, courage, confidence, perseverance, a change of heart, a change of circumstances and even in the form of a miracle!
But, “It is hard for God to release his power in your life when you put your hands in your pockets and say, ‘Thanks, but no thanks. I can handle things on my own.’”
“Prayerless people cut themselves off from God’s peace and from his prevailing power, and a common result is that they feel overwhelmed, overrun, beaten down, pushed around and defeated by a world operating with a take-no-prisoners approach. It’s surprising…how many are willing to settle for lives like that.”
“Don’t be one of them! Nobody has to live this way. Prayer is the key to unlocking God’s consistent and prevailing power in your life.”
Prayer to me is a gift that gives us access to God, all day, everyday, everywhere. Don’t miss out on the peace and grace of being in a close personal relationship with the Lord through prayer.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)