The Power of Believing Prayer “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” Matthew 21:22 NKJV What is prayer? Keep it simple. It is a conversation with God, your Heavenly Father. Prayer is not a mere formality, but a dynamic, faith-driven interaction with the living God. He reveals that the condition of the heart — genuine belief and trust — is what makes prayer effective Don't live below your means. When we become children of our Heavenly Father, we’re granted the privilege of approaching the King of all kings with our requests. Mark said it this way: "Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:24 NIV “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:7 (NKJV) Pray that you align your desires and prayers with God’s Word by abiding in Him daily. God loves to give His children what they ask for—when asked with the right heart. Think about it this way... Is a child concerned about approaching their loving parent for a snack, for a hug, for advice, or for help? When we come to God with similar childlike confidence—in sincerity, humility, trust, and even desperation—we can be confident that He hears us. "The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous." Proverbs 15:29 (NKJV) When we submit our request, we might get a ‘yes,’ a ‘no,’ or a ‘not yet,' but no matter what the answer is, we can know that God hears us as we trust Him with our prayers. And No. You cannot pimp God. Don't even try it. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7 (NKJV) Let's keep it real. For some of us we don't want to conversate with God because we are afraid of what He might say to us. The enemy has tricked us in believing God does not care about us or it's not that important to involve God. Remember Jesus died for you and God has placed He the Holy Spirit in you, that you and I may live the abundant life in Him and through Him. Be aware of the challenges. "Why pray if God already knows what I am going to say". Because God wants a relationship with you, not a religion with you. What relationship thrives when the parties involved don't talk to each other? God is so distant, He feels so far away. James 4:8a Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. * Doubting God’s willingness or ability to answer prayers. * Becoming discouraged by delayed answers or seemingly unanswered prayers. * Letting fear or negative circumstances overshadow faith. * Praying inconsistently or without focus due to busyness or apathy. * Struggling to believe when prayers are met with silence or suffering continues. Don't live below your means, tap into the power of prayer Hosea 4:6a “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Whether you need wisdom, direction, or practical help, you can come boldly before the throne of God (Hebrews 4:16). “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Hebrews 4:16 NLT “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” Matthew 21:22 (NKJV) Pray boldly for what you need, trusting fully in God’s ability to provide. Please don't limit God to external stuff only when it comes to your needs. What about more Fruit of the Spirit (Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, etc..) Know this: Faith activates God’s response. And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6 Prayer as Partnership — Prayer is a collaboration between man’s faith and God’s power. God’s Will and Prayer — Our prayers align with God’s purposes when we believe in Him. Faith Over Rituals — Faith surpasses empty religious practices. God’s Accessibility — We can approach Him personally and confidently. Some questions to consider in your devotional time with the Lord this week. * Do I truly believe God hears and answers my prayers, or am I just going through the motions? * Lord, how have I ALLOWED doubt or disappointment to affect my faith in prayer? * What would my prayer life look like if I fully believed the promise of Matthew 21:22? * Lord, how can I strengthen my faith when faced with delays or difficulties? * Lord, show me the specific areas of my life that need more faith-filled prayer right now? Quotes: “Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible.” Hebrews 11:1 “God does nothing except in response to believing prayer.” Luke 11:9–10 “Prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance, but laying hold of His willingness.” John 16:23–24 Relevance for 2025 In an age of skepticism, instant gratification, and anxiety, this scripture challenges us to slow down and trust God in prayer. Many people today rely on technology, self-help, or social movements to solve their problems while neglecting faith in God. The rise of mental health struggles, uncertainty about the future, and global crises make this verse incredibly timely: it reminds believers that prayer is still powerful and effective when offered in faith. In 2025, amid challenges — whether personal, societal, or global — this verse calls believers to anchor their hope not in circumstances but in the God who hears and answers prayers. In Conclusion. - Living Word let's be this kind of church. A praying church A believing church A Church that asks for God to move in and through us for His glory. A church that's praying for people to get saved A church that asks for relationships, friendships and marriages to be restored. A church that asks for healing to be at work. A church that asks for God to be glorified and his power to be on the move at Living Word and around the world. In Jesus name. ________________