When You Feel Like Prayer Isn't Working

“Lord, hear my prayer! Listen to my plea! Don’t turn away from me in my time of distress. Bend down to listen, and answer me quickly when I call to you.” Psalm 102:1-2 (NLT)

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I have been both a pastor and pastoral counselor for over 30 years. I often hear reasons why prayer feels boring, difficult, and sometimes purposeless for people.

Author and pastor Max Lucado said this about prayer: “Our prayers may be awkward. Our attempts may be feeble. But since the power of prayer is in the One who hears it and not in the one who says it, our prayers do make a difference.”

Here’s a couple of my thoughts about prayer…First, prayer is all about cultivating an intimate relationship with Jesus. Speak to Him as if He is sitting at your table or on your couch. He hears every prayer and desires to speak to us. Second, prayer is not a burden, but an exciting opportunity to daily engage the God of all creation.

Here are a few tips to help you develop a daily prayer life that makes a difference:

1. Choose a time daily. It’s important to find a time free of interruptions and distractions. We call this having a “quiet time” so that you can approach God and not feel hurried in your conversation with Him.
2. Begin your devotional time reading God’s Word. I suggest using a Bible reading guide. This will provide you with a specific passage of Scripture to focus on. Read the Scriptures with a sense of expectancy as though you are about to hear God’s voice.
3. Start journaling. When you read the Bible, it will speak to your heart concerning specific needs and issues in your life. Writing down what you’re learning helps you remember and process what God is saying to you.
4. Pray God’s Word. John 16:23 says, “At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name.” When we don’t know what else to pray, praying Scripture reminds us of God’s character and reaffirms our trust in Him. You can rest in faith that God has heard and will supply all your needs.

If you’re in a season where you feel like your prayers just aren’t working, be encouraged today. Always remember that prayer does more than change your circumstances; prayer also changes you.

Digging Deeper:

1. In what ways could you benefit from a daily prayer routine?
2. Has there been a time when prayer really changed a situation and made you recognize the power of prayer?