Studies on Prayer: Vol. 1Sample

Most people will ask God for a miracle at some point. But it is difficult to pray knowing God is able, but will still choose to answer our prayers in His will, rather than our own. Sometimes our doubts about His will can lead to doubts about His perfection. One of the great gifts of prayer is to allow our moments of conversation with God to become reminders of everything we know God to be. God is perfect and can never be or do anything less than perfection. The best way to handle our doubts is to leave them at the throne of our perfect God.

The book of Judges covers a time in the life of Israel between the death of Joshua and the appointment of the first king, Saul. When Joshua died, the people struggled because they lacked strong leadership. Neighbouring countries took advantage of that time and attempted to invade and control the Promised Land. Infighting began between some of the tribes of Israel, causing even greater turmoil. The people began to intermingle and compromise with other nations, and their foreign customs of idol worship. Their lack of obedience to the basic commandments of the Law began to weaken Israel as a nation. They became a people that God was less able to bless.

The Judges were individuals who were appointed to protect or guide the nation of Israel through this time. Gideon was a young man when God called him to be a judge. The Midianites’ attacks on Israel had devastated the land to the point that Gideon doubted survival was possible.

Gideon turned to God and found grace for his doubts. Through Gideon, the people were reminded again of the sovereign power of their true and perfect God.

1. Describe the conditions the Israelites were enduring. (Judges 6:1–6)

2. Apply the truth of these verses to your personal prayer life. What can cause us to doubt that our prayers will be answered? Read 1 John 5:14. What is our confidence?

3. What do the Lord’s instructions to Gideon teach us about answered prayer and restored blessing for our lives?

“Faith isn't believing without proof – it's trusting without reservation.” —William Sloane Coffin