Bible Reading: Psalm 145:15-16
I was praying one day and I asked God to protect me. Right before I was about to move on, the Holy Spirit said, “I have already said that I would protect you, what specifically do you need protection for?” Now, I know God wasn’t asking that question because He didn’t know. 1 John 3:20, assures us that He knows everything.
All throughout the Bible are scriptures of God promising to protect us. So when I ask for His protection and move on without specifically letting it be known what I need protection for, how will I know when He has granted that request?
We diminish God’s power in our life by not praying powerful, specific prayers according to James 5:16. We ask God to do things He already promised He would do.
“Lord protect me.” God’s response, “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“Lord help me”. God’s response, “I will be your ever present help in times of trouble.” Psalm 46:1
“Lord lead me and guide me.” God’s response, “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go.” Psalm 32:8
In no way am I saying that we shouldn’t ask God for protection, help and guidance, we wouldn’t be able to navigate life without them. Proverbs 15:8 tells us the prayers of the upright is His delight. However, it is important that we are specific with our request to God. It is difficult, if not impossible, to identify God’s hand in our life when we don’t specifically tell Him what we need. John Piper once said, “Prayer is that wonderful transition where the wealth of God’s glory is magnified and the wants of our soul are satisfied.” In order to have our wants satisfied, we have to be specific with what they are.
What are you going to be specific with God about today?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for reminding me of the importance of being specific in my prayers to You. God, You can do anything but fail and in order for me to see You answer prayers in my life, I have to be specific in my request. I declare supernatural boldness on today as I operate radical faith in believing that You can and You will answer every prayer I pray, despite how difficult I may think it is. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
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I will be specific in asking for guidance in and out of many projects, tasks and to get well! ?
A clear mind and focus is powerful ?
Amen!
Love this! So thankful that we can come to Him boldly!
Thanks for stopping by!
Love that Piper quote. We do tend to gloss over our specific needs. We know God knows even our thoughts. But I, too, believe God wants us to ask for His help. Just like our fathers are pleased when we ask them for help. Your prayer is beautiful!
Praise God! Thanks so much for stopping by!
I have always taught my children (or any children) that when we pray to always pray specifically and with purpose.
God knows your heart, be honest with Him
He loves that!
On time again. I pray specifically, but lately they’ve just been, “Help!” Help with what? When I know He’s an ever present help in times of trouble! I will be specific and bold TODAY.
Amen!