Can we really pray for what we want, and is this the purpose of prayer?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I attended a prayer breakfast earlier this year and every speaker mentioned prayer, but other than an opening and closing prayer (by people from opposing beliefs) there was no praying done, just everyone bragging about how often they pray. Yet they all claimed that our country could not be healed if we didn’t pray. Can we really pray for what we want, and is this the purpose of prayer? – P.P.
A: Hymn writer from the 19th century Maltbie Babcock said, “Our prayers are to mean something to us if they are to mean anything to God.” It goes without saying that if our prayers are aimless, meaningless, and mingled with doubt, they will go unanswered. Prayer is more than a wish turned heavenward; it is the voice of faith directed Godward.
The Bible instructs us to pray. Jesus taught His disciples to pray. This kind of dynamic prayer emanates from an obedient heart. The Bible says, “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight” (1 John 3:22, KJV).
We must come to God in prayer according to His will. We must set aside our stubborn will and ask Him to help us do His will. He will hear us; for He knows whether our desire is according to His word. He has given us His Holy Spirit to help us in all that we ask in His Name. Obedience is the master key to effective prayer.
The Bible says, “I delight to do Your will, O my God” (Psalm 40:8, NKJV). To know the will of God is the highest of all wisdom. Living in the center of God’s will rules out all falseness of religion and puts the stamp of true sincerity upon our service to God. When we seek God’s will in prayer, He will help us do it.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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