If God Is Sovereign, Are My Prayers Pointless?

Ask Pastor John
Episode: 1443

[DillonLoomis]

Such a good question, something I've struggled with for sure
1) God commands us to ask for what we want (John 15:7)
2) If we don't, we may not get it (James 4:2)
3) God plans our prayers just as surely as he plans the events that he performs in answer to our prayers (Luke 22:32)
Hope everyone continues to put Jesus first one day at a time. Looking forward to communing in heaven 😊

[regulor]

Maybe we’re largely missing the point. Maybe it’s not about “getting things” or “manipulating God”, but rather, closeness and intimacy with Jesus.

[joshuaedward]

4:41 "We pray toward what He tells us to pursue, not by trying to figure out what He sovereignly decrees." well said

[eatntell]

I never thought of it this way. I’m the kind of person that thinks if i pray for something grand by my standards, God might automatically not want it for me. And so i waver in praying for it. Thank you for this!

[arlynmeguillo]

I am so blessed. Thank you Pastor John.

[maame-bev]

Our wants should be according to his will not our fleshy desires 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

[firingallcylinders]

I think this question is something Christians struggle with all the time even Christians who have been saved for a long time. Great explanation, thanks John.

[KiranIsaac-gg]

Thank you Pastor John. I have been going through a tough time and feeling discouraged about praying. This has encouraged me more.

[des]

Very timely. I was asking God this right now and then I found this. Thank you Lord. I will continue praying. God bless both of you.

[markwhite]

I learn so much from these podcasts. Thank You Pastor John!

[hoysam]

I pray that I do not receive what I want nor what I deserve but that I receive what I need 🙏

[ryleighloughty]

In our earthly and mortal realm, we have the freedom to make our own choices, knowing that they are fully aligned with God's divine will.

[ksteak]

My pastor answered this question as follows: "God will never do, outside of prayer, what he has willed to do through prayer." Settled the matter for me.

[humble_garden]

I prayed for strength, he gave me trials to overcome.
I prayed for money, he says I have treasures in heaven.
He asks.. do I still want money? I said no bcos I'm content with the treasures in heaven.
Praying is about chit chatting with God. It's love, fun and insightful! Is that pointless? I think it's a gift in itself!

[sansebastiansj]

The best way to pray is to pray with the child's trust. (if you are an adult or teen of course). The girl asking the question already let the doubt consume her thoughts. Children don't think "Oh, I don't know if my mom will buy me a new toy. Does she have money to buy me a new toy". They just ask. And if they don't get what they want, they cry. So if you want something just cry hysterically at it will be ok. No, I'm joking, but you guys get my point. Trust, and don't let your mind be poisoned by doubt.

[jerryalakara]

Just these past two weeks, I'd been thinking in the mentality of that question. I'm happy for Desiring God.

[sharonkinsella]

I wish I could "like" this twice. I walk away from it with so much hope and clarity, ready to go boldly to the throne! Thank you, Pastor John! ♡

[earlwilliams]

Even an unanswered prayer will bring you closer to His presence.

[mizpink]

Prayer is not just about asking for what you want... It's a way to get closer to our father. Just speaking to him about the weather is prayer.. it's about relationship, trust in him and have faith he will follow through with what's best for us.

[Ashley-fjxs]

Thank you, God, for giving us this message from Your Word in Pastor John’s answer. I really needed this answer. I have been praying for it!