Prayer Works

Does prayer really make a difference? Why does it sometimes feel like God isn’t answering? And what if we pray the wrong way? In this week’s Know and Do—Going Deeper lesson, we dig deeper into what Scripture teaches about why and how prayer in the name of Jesus Christ truly works.Using 1 Timothy 2:1–2 as our foundation, this episode addresses common frustrations and misunderstandings about prayer, while offering biblical clarity, encouragement, and practical guidance for growing in a faithful prayer life.I. What difference does prayer make, really? A. Matthew 7:7–8 B. Matthew 7:9–10II. Why isn’t God answering my prayer? A. 1 Corinthians 3:18 B. Romans 11:33 C. 2 Corinthians 12:8–9III. What if I pray the wrong way? A. The right way to pray: i. Start with submission to God (James 4:6; Prov. 1:7; Acts 2:38; Matt. 4:17; Rom. 8:15; Heb. 4:14–16). ii. Be reverent (Heb. 12:28). iii. Seek to pray God’s will (Matt. 6:10; John 14:13–34; Ps. 37:4). iv. Be honest (Matt. 6:8; Phil. 4:6; James 5:16). v. Have faith (Rom. 8:26; 1 Tim. 2:5). vi. Be persistent (Luke 18:1–8; Phil. 4:6; 1 Thess. 5:17; Ps. 27:13–14). B. The wrong way to pray: Pray to the wrong God (Heb. 11:6). Prayer is not superstition or wishful thinking. It is real communion with the living God through Jesus Christ. While prayer may not always change our circumstances, it always changes us—and God uses it to accomplish His good and glorious purposes.Handout Link