Encouraging Prayer

When life feels overwhelming and the noise of the world grows louder, praise has the power to refocus our hearts on God. In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and host Robbie Dilmore explore how praising God isn't just an expression of worship—it's a powerful spiritual practice that brings peace, renews our perspective, and strengthens us in the midst of life's battles. Using a touching story about a beloved dog, alongside the remarkable account of Paul and Silas worshiping in prison, they reveal how praise can calm anxious hearts, quiet distracting voices, and become a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare. Discover why choosing to praise God—especially in difficult circumstances—opens the door to His presence, His joy, and His peace. If you've been carrying burdens, battling discouragement, or simply longing to draw closer to God, this encouraging conversation will remind you that praise isn't just for the good times—it's often the pathway to breakthrough. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

How do we truly listen to God? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks explores the deeper dimensions of listening to God—not simply through words, but through His presence, peace, love, tenderness, and the ways He speaks to our hearts. James and Robbie discuss the importance of slowing down, quieting the noise, letting go of our expectations, and becoming attentive to God's presence. Drawing from John 10:27 and Psalm 16:11, they reflect on what it means to hear the Shepherd's voice and experience the fullness of joy found in His presence. Discover how taking just a few quiet moments to sit with God can transform your prayer life—and even change the course of your entire day. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.  

We've all been there—misplaced keys, missing glasses, a lost wallet, or something far more precious. But have you ever stopped to pray before you start searching? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and host Robbie Dilmore explore the surprisingly biblical topic of praying about lost things. Drawing from Scripture—including the floating axe head, the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son—they reveal how God cares about even the smallest details of our lives and often uses moments of loss to draw us closer to Him. Through personal stories of finding lost possessions, a missing deer, and even a runaway daughter, James shares how prayer not only helps us discover what's missing but also reminds us to slow down, trust God's guidance, and recognize what matters most. Sometimes the greatest thing we recover isn't the item we lost—it's our awareness of God's presence. Whether you've misplaced something valuable or simply need a reminder that God is deeply involved in your everyday life, this encouraging conversation will inspire you to pray first, trust more, and rest in the Father's care.

How do you pray when the people who were supposed to reflect Christ are the ones who wounded you? Church hurt can leave deep scars—bringing disappointment, betrayal, confusion, and even making it difficult to pray. In this heartfelt episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and host Robby Dilmore explore the biblical path to healing when the pain comes from within the church. Drawing from personal experience and the promises of Scripture, they discuss why the first and best response to church hurt is to run to Jesus, who alone brings healing, grace, and the strength to forgive. Together, they examine how God can transform even the deepest wounds into opportunities for spiritual growth, renewed perspective, and a closer walk with Christ. Whether you've been hurt by a pastor, fellow believer, or church community, this conversation offers hope, practical encouragement, and a reminder that Jesus never fails those who seek Him. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

What if one of the greatest adventures of faith begins with something as simple as taking a walk? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and Robby Dilmore explore what it truly means to "walk with God"—not just as a biblical metaphor, but as a practical, daily experience. Drawing inspiration from Enoch, Jesus, and the Psalms, James shares how a simple walk can become sacred time with the Lord through prayer, Scripture meditation, and quiet attentiveness to God's presence. Along the way, you'll discover how slowing down, engaging your senses, and listening for God's voice can transform an ordinary walk into an extraordinary encounter with Him. Whether you're looking to deepen your prayer life, find peace in the middle of a hectic day, or simply experience God in a fresh way, this episode will encourage you to step outside—and step closer to Him. Because every walk with God has the potential to become a divine adventure. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

Is it okay to pray, "Get 'em, God"? What do we do when someone has hurt us, harmed someone we love, or is actively persecuting others? Scripture contains some surprisingly bold prayers asking God to bring justice—and they're not limited to the Old Testament. In this thought-provoking episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks explores the biblical practice of imprecatory prayer and the tension between asking God for justice while still obeying Jesus' command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. Discover why bringing our anger, pain, desire for justice, and even our struggle to forgive honestly before God can be part of a genuine prayer life. Most importantly, learn why justice ultimately belongs in God's hands—not ours. It's a challenging conversation about trusting God when we desperately want to take matters into our own hands—and remembering that He hears the prayers of His people. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

Is spending quiet time with God a luxury—or the most important investment you'll ever make? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and Robby Dilmore explore why what the world might call "wasting time" with God is actually where our deepest relationship with Him is formed. Together, they discuss the danger of making prayer another task to complete, the difference between pursuing productivity and pursuing friendship with God, and the life-changing power of simply sitting in His presence.  If you've ever struggled to slow down, felt guilty about your prayer life, or wondered how to move beyond routine conversations with God, this episode offers practical encouragement and biblical wisdom to help you rediscover the joy of prayer. Learn why listening can be just as important as speaking, how God gently leads us through quiet moments with Him, and why time spent in His presence is never wasted. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

Dreams have fascinated people for centuries—but what if some dreams carry a deeper spiritual purpose? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and Robbie Dilmore explore what the Bible teaches about dreams and how believers can wisely discern whether a dream is simply a product of the mind or a message God may be using to encourage, warn, or guide. Looking at examples from Scripture and sharing personal experiences, they offer practical, biblical principles for testing dreams through God's Word, prayer, and the counsel of mature believers. If you've ever wondered what to do with a dream that stays with you long after you wake up, this conversation will help you seek God's wisdom with confidence and discernment. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

Have you ever wondered if your prayers somehow got lost along the way? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and Robby Dilmore explore the comforting truth that God never loses track of a single prayer. While packages may be misplaced and people may fail us, our Heavenly Father faithfully hears every cry, remembers every tear, and responds in His perfect timing. Drawing from Scripture and personal experiences, James and Robby discuss God's incredible attention to detail, the importance of persistent prayer, and how seasons of deep need often lead to deeper intimacy with Him. If you've ever felt like heaven was silent or your prayers were unanswered, this conversation will remind you that your loving Father is listening—and He has never forgotten you. Join us for this encouraging reminder that every prayer matters because every child of God matters to Him. To learn more about the power of prayer and discover additional biblical resources from Dr. James Banks, visit jamesbanks.org. You'll find encouragement, books, articles, and more to help you grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

What if one simple conversation could become an opportunity to share God's love? In this episode, we explore how everyday encounters can become powerful moments of ministry through prayer. Inspired by a simple visit to a medical office, we discuss how listening well, showing genuine kindness, and offering heartfelt prayer can open doors for God to work in the lives of those around us. You'll discover that loving your neighbor doesn't always require a long conversation or a perfect presentation of the gospel. Sometimes it begins with a kind word, a listening ear, and a quiet prayer lifted to God on someone's behalf. As we learn to walk closely with Christ, the Holy Spirit helps us recognize opportunities to encourage others and reflect His love in natural, authentic ways.  Join us as we are reminded that prayer is one of the greatest ways we can love the people God places in our path—and that even the smallest acts of faithfulness can have an eternal impact.

Have you ever wondered why some days prayer feels deeply personal and powerful, while other days it seems like your words never make it past the ceiling? In this encouraging episode, James and Robby explore what it means to pray faithfully "in and out of season." Drawing from Scripture, including the life of King Hezekiah and Jesus' teaching to "keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking," this conversation reminds us that God's presence is not measured by our feelings. Even during seasons when He seems silent, He is still at work—strengthening our faith, refining our hearts, and drawing us closer to Him. If you've ever struggled with spiritual dryness, unanswered prayers, or simply wondered how to remain faithful when you don't feel God's presence, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical hope to help you persevere. Join us as we discover that some of our greatest spiritual growth happens not in the mountaintop moments, but in the quiet seasons when we choose to keep praying. Don't give up—God hears every prayer, and He is faithfully working even when you can't yet see it.

Have you ever felt like you've failed too many times to come before God in prayer? Hebrews 4:16 offers a powerful reminder that God's invitation isn't reserved for spiritual giants—it's for anyone who is broken, struggling, and in need of His mercy. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to "come boldly before the throne of grace." Discover how this passage isn't about demanding answers with confidence, but about approaching God with complete honesty, knowing that Jesus understands every weakness and welcomes us with compassion. Learn how God's mercy meets us in our most desperate moments and how His grace holds us together when life feels like it's falling apart. If you've ever wondered whether God still wants to hear from you after you've stumbled, this episode is a timely reminder that His invitation remains open. Come as you are, speak freely, and experience the grace that only God can give.

In a world filled with constant demands, endless distractions, and overwhelming responsibilities, it's easy to lose sight of the peace God offers through prayer. In this episode, Dr. James Banks and Robby Dilmore explore a simple yet often overlooked truth: when life feels most chaotic, prayer is not something we can afford to skip—it's exactly what we need most. Drawing from the life of David in the Psalms, James shares how turning to God in times of stress, uncertainty, and pressure brings a peace that circumstances cannot provide. Whether you're facing unanswered prayers, difficult situations, or simply struggling to slow down and seek God, this conversation offers practical encouragement to pause, quiet your heart, and experience the comfort of God's presence. Join us as we discover how seeking God's face transforms our perspective, anchors our souls, and fills us with lasting peace—even when nothing around us changes.

Have you ever felt angry with God because your prayers seemed unanswered? In this honest and encouraging episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr. James Banks and Robby Dilmore explore a topic many believers experience but few openly discuss: how to pray when you're frustrated, disappointed, or even angry with God. Drawing from personal experience and powerful biblical examples, Dr. Banks shows that God invites us into authentic relationship—even when our emotions are raw. Looking at Moses' heartfelt complaint in Numbers 11, he reveals how Scripture gives us permission to bring our deepest struggles, questions, and frustrations directly to the Lord. Rather than turning away from God in difficult seasons, we are encouraged to lean into Him, trusting that He hears, understands, and responds with grace. If you've ever prayed, "Why, Lord?" or wondered how to keep talking to God when life doesn't make sense, this episode offers biblical wisdom, hope, and practical encouragement for deepening your relationship with Him through every emotion.

What does it really mean to pray—and how can we avoid turning prayer into mere religious routine? In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore explores the difference between authentic, heart-to-heart communication with God and the empty rituals that often get mistaken for prayer. Looking at the life of Jesus, who was known as a friend of sinners and someone people genuinely wanted to be around, James challenges listeners to embrace a prayer life that is honest, vulnerable, and deeply relational. Rather than hiding our weaknesses or putting on a spiritual performance, we're invited to bring our real selves before God and allow His love to flow through us to others. Join us as we discuss how genuine prayer helps us connect with people where they are, see them through God's eyes, and become living examples of Christ's love in a world that desperately needs hope. Discover how praying with authenticity can transform not only your relationship with God, but also your relationships with those around you. Whether you're new to prayer or have been praying for years, this conversation will encourage you to move beyond religion and into a deeper, more personal connection with the Father.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss affirmations. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss giving our doubts and prayers to God. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss prayers that dreams are made of. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, mother's prayer. Happy Mother's Day !!!

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss 7 reasons to praise when you pray. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss leaping with prayer. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss prodigal acrostic.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to pray for hurting friends. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, we take a look back to when James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discussed soaking in prayer. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to pray like a little kid. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss leaving your legacy through prayer. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to practice the prayer of lament with others. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss 3 reasons why Christians don't pray and 3 reasons why they should. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to get more of the word into us. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to do a beautiful thing. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss having God's peace inside of you. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to get real with God by turning your longings into prayer. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss prayers that proves something.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss loving your prayer list.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss learning to linger. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss finding fresh ways to pray.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss finding fresh ways to pray.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, Dr.James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how The Magi and The Wisest Prayer

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to pray when you don't know which way is up.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to pray when you don't know which way is up.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how giving thanks makes us happy. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to make prayer easier. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to give thanks when you don't feel like it. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, asks and answers the question, what if you get bored with praying. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss asking God for purity

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss praying about how God feels.  

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how prayer can make a difference for your spiritual insight. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss the freedom of prayer. 

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss how to pray when you're not in the mood.

In this episode of Encouraging Prayer, James Banks and Robby Dilmore, discuss having a intimate conversation with God.