The Power of Prayer and Reading Your Bible

By Luke Quinn

The Importance of Prayer and God’s Word

When we look at the Bible, one profound truth stands out: the disciples never asked Jesus to teach them how to heal the sick, perform miracles, or even walk on water. Instead, they asked Him one thing: how to pray. Why? Because prayer is the key to a powerful and intimate relationship with God. It unlocks His will, aligns our hearts with His purposes, and empowers us for life’s challenges.

So, how should we pray? And why is reading your Bible so essential to effective prayer? Let’s explore this.

Jesus’ Example of Prayer

In Mark 1:35-37, we see Jesus’ commitment to prayer:

“Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.”

Even Jesus, the Son of God, took time to withdraw from the distractions of the world to pray. If Jesus needed this, how much more do we? He also gave clear instructions for us:

Matthew 6:6

“But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

Prayer is not just talking to God—it’s about receiving heavenly instructions for our earthly assignments. It’s where we submit to God’s will and gain clarity for our lives.

Prayer, Repentance, and Righteousness Lead to Results

True prayer begins with a heart of repentance and righteousness.

Self-Control and Sober-Mindedness

When we read the Bible and pray, our prayers become shaped by God’s Word. It fuels our faith like fire.

1 Peter 4:7 reminds us:

“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.”

Without self-control, prayer loses its effectiveness. For example, if you’re struggling with lust, don’t pray for a spouse; first pray for God to purify your heart.

Psalm 66:18 warns us:

“If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”

Unrepentant sin, unforgiveness, and lack of self-control can hinder our prayers. As Jesus says in Matthew 6:14-15:

“If you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Thankfully, if you have a repentant heart, God is faithful to forgive and restore you.

The Power of Persistent Prayer

Jesus emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer:

Luke 18:7-8

“And will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night? Will He keep putting them off? I tell you, He will see that they get justice, and quickly.”

Even when you don’t see immediate answers, continue to pray faithfully. God hears you, and His timing is perfect.

Praying According to God’s Will

The power of prayer lies in aligning our requests with God’s will.

In Mark 14:36, Jesus prays:

“Father, everything is possible for You. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.”

Even Jesus submitted to the Father’s will. It doesn’t matter how holy or sincere your prayer is—if it isn’t in alignment with God’s will, it lacks power.

How do you discover God’s will? By reading His Word daily.

1 John 5:14-15 assures us:

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.”

Reading the Bible and praying go hand in hand. Scripture shapes your prayers and brings you into alignment with God’s plans.

Be Patient and Trust God’s Timing

Sometimes, we pray for something for a long time, and it seems like nothing is happening. How should we respond?

Romans 12:12 encourages us:

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulations, be consistent in prayer.”

If God says “no” or delays His answer, trust that He has a better plan.

Romans 8:28 reminds us:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

God’s “no” might be a redirection toward something far greater than what you asked for.

A Simple Prayer Formula

If you want to grow in your prayer life, start with these steps:

1. Discover God’s Will – Read His Word daily.

2. Pray According to God’s Will – Let Scripture guide your prayers.

3. Be Patient and Faithful – Trust God’s timing and persist in prayer.

   
   

Conclusion

Prayer is a powerful tool, but it must be paired with a life of repentance, righteousness, and a devotion to God’s Word. When you pray according to His will and trust Him fully, you will see results in your life.

Start today—set aside time for prayer, immerse yourself in Scripture, and let God transform your heart and circumstances.