The prayer that raises the hand of God – Part 2

Principle 11: The Motive For Praying
To a very large extent, our motive for praying affects our prayers. Many beautifully worded, well-articulated and charismatic prayers have failed to achieve their intended result because of the motive for praying. In James chapter four (4) verse three (3), the Apostle revealed that, “you ask and do not receive because you ask amiss, that ye may spend it on your pleasures.” Jesus warned that we check and correct our motive or reason for praying in Matthew chapter six (6) verse five (5). “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the Synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.”

Friend, why are you asking (praying) God to do that thing you request? Is it to promote self by showing how much you can pray? James said your reason for praying determines whether it will be answered or not.

Using Elijah as a case study, we discover that his motive, reason or interest for his prayer contention on Mount Carmel was not to show that he was a “Super star” that could pray fire down. He declared in his prayer his motive “Let it be known this day that then art God in Israel” (1 Kings 18:36). Seek the will and glory of God as you pray and you will receive the blessing of answers to prayer.

Principle 111: Alone With God
Elijah withdrew from the crowd and from king Ahab, who left to eat and drink, to enable him move the hand of God. To move the hand of God in prayer, we must make out time to retire or retreat from the mad and distracting world around us and be alone with God like Elijah, who “went up to the top of Carmel, while Ahab went to eat and drink (1 Kings 18:42). The atmosphere of the world is fatal to the Spirit of devotion. Thus, if communication with God is to be enjoyed, we must pay heed to the exhortation of Jesus; “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” (Matt 5:6).

Friend, it is only in the secret place of prayer that the Hand of God could be stirred up to manifest in your favour in the open. Therefore, shut yourself out of all sights and sounds, which take the mind off God and you will be glad you did.

As you heed this message, I pray that God’s Hand will be stirred up to move in your favour in Jesus Name — Amen.  Stay blessed and rapturable. I love you and shalom.

Rev. Idorenyin James, Congregational Pastor, United Evangelical Church (Founded as Qua Iboe Church), Surulere, Lagos
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