Prayer is like a mix of beauty, simplicity, and complexity all at once. Everyone prays in their own way, and our loving God hears each one. But getting an answer? Well, that’s a different story. Sometimes it happens quickly, and other times we need to be patient. Yet, there are certain things we pray for that God always responds to. Why? Because we want to grow closer to Him and experience more of His presence in our lives.
“Thank God, who didn’t ignore my prayer and kept on loving me without fail.”
1. Show yourself to me
In the busyness of life, it can be tough to figure out where the Lord is guiding us. If we simply stop and ask Him to show us the way, He will, and it’s usually in really cool and amazing ways. He shows Himself differently to each of us—maybe as a quiet inner voice, through dreams, or by providing exactly what we need at the right time, like a job or opportunity.
If you’re going through a tough time, take a moment during the day to be still and ask Him to guide you. Then, try to notice even the little things happening around you. He doesn’t always make big gestures; sometimes, He shows up in small, meaningful ways too.
2. Make my obedience stronger
We all understand that when the Lord tells us to do something, we should listen and follow. But, you know, sometimes it’s really, really tough. Like when we’re waiting for things to happen, resisting the urge to take control can be a real challenge. On days when worries and doubts creep in, ask the Lord to make your obedience stronger. Request His help to do what you’ve been told to do. Personally, whenever I come across the phrase, “Be still and know that I am God,” it serves as a reminder to stay calm and obedient. Even when I can’t see it, He’s at work.
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not scold you for asking.”
3. Please help me feel peaceful.
Our lives can be really busy, and with all the stuff happening in the world, finding peace might feel super hard. But, God doesn’t want us to be stressed and worried. He’s always there to answer and guide us to peace.
“In those days, when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me with all your heart, you will find me.”
- Jeremiah 29:12-13 (New Living Translation)
4. Help me see things clearly.
Navigating through life can be tough and confusing. The last thing God wants is for you to go the wrong way or make the wrong choice. It might take some time and patience, but God will always respond when you ask for things to become clearer.
“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
5. Please share your wisdom with me.
The Bible advises us not to rely only on what we think is right, and this can be tough, especially in challenging times. When you’re in a situation where you’re not sure what to do, ask God to give you His wisdom. It could also be helpful to talk to your pastor or a close friend. Sometimes, when we’re feeling overwhelmed and stuck in our own thoughts, God may guide us through a trusted clergy member or friend. Other times, He might speak directly to you.