The Sidney Sun-Telegraph - Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper

Recently, tens of thousands of Christians gathered in Washington DC to pray for our country. At the same time people all over the country were praying. When reporting on this event on TV, one of the commentators wondered what kind of affect so many people praying might have on our country. In response, his co-anchor replied, “Well, it can’t do any harm”. Talk about an understatement !!

Do we often pray with a “well, it can’t do any harm” kind of attitude? Or do we pray with confidence, knowing God hears and answers our prayers. He doesn’t always answer the way we might want or expect, but in His infinite wisdom. He answers them His best way. His best is our best.

Jesus teaches that Christian prayers are unfailingly heard because God has promised to hear us and He always keeps His promises. In John 14:13-14, Jesus tells us, “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in My name, I will do it.” “In My name” is not simply a formula added to a prayer, but means praying in keeping with Jesus’ revealed will and teaching.

Last week this truth was brought home to me. My daughters and I were planning a few special days together. We thought everything was planned out perfectly. Then, suddenly one road block after another appeared. We were perplexed because we had prayed about the trip. After more prayers and more road blocks, we decided God was saying it just wasn’t the time for our trip. Trusting in Him, we cancelled our planned get-together. Later, about the time of our proposed get- together, my daughter’s precious mother-in-law became ill and passed away. My daughter was needed at home to be with her family. Thankfully, God knew that. It may have seemed like God didn’t answer our prayer but he did in a big way! In Matthew 6:8 we learn, “……. for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” It is most certainly true.

Lord, help us to be prayer warriors, coming to you confidently and boldly. Most of all, help us to come with hearts and prayers full of thanksgiving!

Jan Knicely,

Associate in Ministry, emeritus

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church