There are many times in the Bible when people prayed to God or Jesus for help with problems they were going through. From sickness to pain, many of them had their issues resolved thanks to the power of their prayers.
You may find that sometimes you don't have all the answers or need a guiding light. Prayer can help you connect with God and listen to his will. Does it work, though?
In the Bible, several passages refer to people speaking to the Lord and asking for his guidance. These Bible passages focus on healing, the power of God's might and how being faithful could result in miracles in the most urgent moments.
There are many examples you can review within the Bible, but here are four of the most significant prayers and the stories behind them. There's always something you can learn from these moments in Scripture. You may want to take some time to get out your journal and write down the thoughts and feelings you have when reading this as you start your conversation with God as well.
“My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live” — Mark 5:23
In the Bible, Jairus asks Jesus to heal his daughter after she takes ill. Along the way to his home, Jesus tested his faith. On the journey, Jesus took time to heal a woman who was also unwell, showing the power that faith could have.
By the time the two reached Jairus's home, however, his daughter had died. Still, his faith did not waiver. Jesus was able to bring the child back to life, proving his healing power.
This prayer isn't intended to suggest that people can be raised from the dead, but you can learn that faith has power and can make big changes in your life. The Lord wants to exceed your desires, but you need to have faith in him to see those miracles come to fruition.
"Remember, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes." — 2 Kings 20:3
Hezekiah found himself in a difficult position as he became sick with a terminal illness. At that time, he prayed to God to see him and deliver him from being unwell. While an illness or death may be God's will, God also has the potential to change his mind, which is what's shown in this passage.
Through faith and prayer, Hezekiah is granted another 15 years of life. Building a positive relationship with God won't necessarily grant a longer life, but it can create a more positive experience as you face changes in your health as you age. Staying strong in your beliefs may help you see the small miracles that occur.
"Lord, open his eyes and make him see." — 2 Kings 2:17
In Elisha's story, the prophet is facing an angry king who's unhappy with his prophecies. Elisha prays to God to have the heavenly army revealed, so the king, as well as his servants, can see the protection already in place.
Praying for a revelation, as Elisha did, can help benefit yourself and others. Through prayer, Elisha was able to see the support and love of the Lord, and his servant was, by virtue of being with him, able to experience this as well.
Focusing on your own prayer could also help someone else in your life have a revelation. At the very least, prayer can be well intended and have a true benefit for others around you as you pray for them and their best interests.
"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." — Luke 23:42-43
Two thieves died on crosses with Jesus between them. One of them continued to ridicule him, but the other asked for forgiveness. Jesus, in the man's final moments, promised that he would be forgiven.
Prayer and asking for forgiveness is a way to cleanse the soul of things you feel you did wrong. Admitting past errors or asking for knowledge on how to make changes can be powerful.
Prayer is something you can do every day. Whether you're in your bed, in church or walking through a beautiful local park, you can pray to God and have him hear your questions. Listening for responses and looking for the little miracles all around you can change your perspective and may have a lasting impact on your life.
Grand Villa Assisted Living is a faith-based community. If you're joining us as a religious or spiritual resident, you can continue to focus on prayer and your relationship with God here.
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