How to pray with faith?

Do you have faith? How much faith do you have? I believe most people feel inadequate. Do you remember when the disciples asked Jesus for more faith? “Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, ‘Why couldn’t we drive it out?’” (Matthew 17:19, NIV) Jesus’ answer was priceless: “He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’” (Matthew 17:20, NIV) 

In my experience as a therapist and leader, I’ve discovered that most people think the solution to their problems is outside of their abilities and faith. It seems to be a lack of faith, self-esteem, or confidence. Whether your name is Moses, Gideon, or Isaiah, we all struggle with feelings of being powerless. 

Gideon lost his faith: “‘Pardon me, my lord,’ Gideon replied, ‘but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, “Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?” But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.’” (Judges 6:13, NIV)

Moses had a list of excuses: “Moses said to the Lord, ‘Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.’” (Exodus 4:10, NIV)

Isaiah was faced with his failures: “‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.’” (Isaiah 6:5, NIV)

Have you struggled with inadequacy? I face this challenge almost every month. I hear people plead with me, “Pastor, can you come to the hospital and pray for my neighbor? He’s really sick.” My classic response is “Well, I’d love to, but it would mean more if you did it.” I generally have to convince people they have the same power and authority as I have. 

Jesus faced this same dilemma: “Then He took the seven loaves and the fish, and when He had given thanks, He broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people.” (Matthew 15:36, NIV)

Did you know that you already have enough faith and power to heal the sick or start a new business? The Bible says, “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.” (James 5:15, NIV)

I’d like to challenge you to make a list of personal and business needs and bring them to God in prayer. Keep track of the answers, miracles, delays, and revelations. It will help you become a prayer warrior who shifts society. 

Because you are a miracle.