By Nancy Virden (c)2020
- The infant was lifeless; he was suddenly 100% healthy
- Her disease was incurable; she was instantly completely whole
- A criminal entered their home; he vanished having taken or done nothing
- They needed money (no one knew); groceries showed up at the door
All these stories are direct results of meaningful prayer in one family. Unlisted are other miracles, the hundreds of prayers answered in less spectacular ways, prayers for outsiders, and the multiple times two of the above events had the same result.
What is special about this family? Nothing at all. They have been dysfunctional, broken, and messy. God has led them through dark lessons when his answers were not what they wished. Faith strong enough to act as if God is telling the truth marks these prayers. That is all that is above the norm- loving God and believing him.
Meaningful prayers have five criteria according to the Holy Bible.
Basic belief in, and earnest seeking to know the One True God. “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
Sincere faith, not only religion. “And so the Lord says, ‘These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.'” Isaiah 29:13
Humility, understanding how God views us. “Then he said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.'” Daniel 10:12
Acceptance of God’s process. “And we will receive from him whatever we ask because we obey him and do the things that please him. And this is his commandment: We must believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as he commanded us. 1 John 3:22-23
Love-informed requests. “Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.” John 4:2b-3
Want to do something more effective than send good thoughts? Prepare your heart to pray meaningfully.
Today’s Helpful Word
Ephesians 2:20-21 niv
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.
*** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!
Always the Fight 
Nancy,
This is wonderful and so true. My prayer is that everyone would come to know God,
His blessings and miracles, that are far beyond human comprehension.
Bless you for sharing these writings that encourage so many of us.
Patty B in Costa Rica
😇🕊😎💖
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Thanks so much, Patty!
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