I have been so challenged by the book, "Prayer, Asking and Receiving" by John R. Rice. I read it when I was in high school and as a result began praying much more effectively, seeing regular immediate results, and gaining a great joy through praying to my Father often. Since that time I know that my prayer life has slackened, and so I decided to pick this book up again recently and again I am so challenged by it.I am not sure that I agree with everything in this book - that's how radical it is. But regardless, I would recommend for any serious Christ follower to read it and consider how they pray.
When I close a prayer by saying, "In Jesus Name," do I really mean that I believe Jesus Christ, Himself would ask the Father for the very thing that I have asked and that I will therefore receive it? Should I?
Do I really believe that "whatsoever you shall ask in my name, that will I do that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye ask anything in my name I will do it." ?
How often I pray without really expecting a result because I am praying for my own gain instead of the Fathers glory, I am praying without claiming promises in scripture, or I am just going through motions and not really speaking to God at all!
I desire that my prayer life might bring glory to God, further His kingdom on earth, and again result in my great joy. If you desire this as well, I would recommend reading this book. And if you do, I'd love to discuss it with you!
- Laura
