Did anyone tell you there’s no right or wrong way to pray? They’re correct. But there is a wrong sense of conviction as we pray. When we ask God for blessings, we often use a mousy attitude. We request limited blessings. And imagine only what our human mind can hold.

But when we change the way we pray, the results are different.

Childlike Expectancy

Putting pride aside, our prayers need to be bold, sure, and expectant.

I tried that. Recently, in my prayer time, I asked the Lord to grant me favor on this particular day. Not sure what that favor would be, I didn’t focus on the specific blessing. Instead, I asked, with an expectant spirit and an anticipating heart.

Later that day, my mom and I stopped at a Christian bookstore. We walked in and the woman behind the counter recognized me. And in an angelic voice said, “A group in my church is doing the Bible study in your book.”

My book? Among all those popular books by world-renowned authors, her church chose my book? I did a cartwheel in my head and thanked God for that sweet encouragement.

You may not be looking for your books to be read. But instead, you need huge solutions. No matter what the request, here are three steps to pray more effectively.

No. 1: Discard doubt and express the authority we have in Jesus.

The words can be few, but the faith has to be deep.

John and Peter show us the simplicity of a powerful prayer. They encountered a man crippled from birth who begged for money.

“Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk” (Acts 3:6-8).

No. 2: Never stop declaring what God will do.

Persistence and perseverance are the vehicle to answers. Keep on knocking expectantly, and the door will open.

The reason we never stop is because God said, “You do not  have because you do not ask God” (James 4:2b)

No. 3. Expect the best God has for you.

Be prepared for a greater answer. And declare in advance praises for what God has prepared, thanking Him in advance for the gifts He has stored in the warehouse of His love. He’s willing, ready and longing to make the delivery according to His schedule.

Here’s His promise: “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:7-11).

God, who created the universe and who knit us together in our mother’s womb, knows what we need. He’s aware of what we lack. He observes our desires and knows what we desire at this moment. He knows what your heart longs for as you read these lines. And He sees the tears that wet your pillow.

That’s why He repeats His promise, “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen” (Isaiah 60:22).

And as He prepares His answer, He’s curling His finger calling you to step into His will as you place your prayers before Him, with certainty of His answer and sure of His timing.

What changes do you need to make as you pray?

Janet

Used with permission by Global Media Outreach from Janet Perez Eckles. In spite of her physical blindness, Janet Perez Eckles serves the Lord as an international speaker and author. She imparts inspiration at www.janetperezeckles.com.