Praying Boldly
In a world where challenges and uncertainties are inevitable, there is one thing that stands out as both a comfort and a call to action: bold prayer. The kind of prayer that doesn’t shy away from the truth but faces it head-on, seeking divine intervention with unwavering faith. It is this boldness in prayer that transforms not just the individual but entire communities. Bold prayer is not about timid requests or vague hopes; it’s about standing in the gap with confidence, knowing that the God we pray to is sovereign and powerful.
Recognizing God’s Sovereignty
Understanding the sovereignty of God is the foundation of bold prayer. When we approach God, we do so knowing that He is in control of all things. This is not just a theological concept; it is the reality that shapes how we pray. Recognizing God’s sovereignty means that we trust in His ultimate plan and purpose, even when it doesn’t align with our desires. It means that our prayers are not about convincing God to do what we want but aligning ourselves with His will. This recognition shifts our perspective from mere supplication to a deep, trusting relationship with the Creator.
The Impact of Prayer on Our World
Prayer has the power to change the course of history, not because it manipulates God, but because it aligns us with His will, enabling us to act in faith. The early church understood this when they prayed for boldness in the face of persecution. They didn’t ask for safety or comfort; they asked for the courage to continue spreading the message of Christ. This kind of prayer moves mountains because it is rooted in the knowledge that God’s purposes will prevail, and we are privileged to be a part of that work. When we pray boldly, we are asking God to use us as instruments of His will, trusting that He will guide our steps.
Living Out Our Bold Prayers
The call to bold prayer is not just about what happens when we pray but also about how we live afterward. Bold prayer should lead to bold living—actions that reflect the confidence we have in God’s sovereignty. It’s easy to go through the motions of life, but bold prayer challenges us to step out in faith, to speak the truth in love, and to act with the assurance that God is with us. Whether it’s sharing the gospel with a friend, standing up for what’s right, or simply living a life that honors God, our prayers should propel us into action. After all, the prayer of the early church was not just words; it was a declaration of their unwavering commitment to God’s mission. And their boldness in prayer led to a boldness in life that changed the world.
Bold prayer is a powerful tool that God has given us to participate in His work. It requires us to recognize His sovereignty, to trust in His plan, and to live out our faith with courage. As we commit ourselves to prayer, let us do so with the confidence that our sovereign God hears us and will act according to His perfect will. And let our bold prayers lead to bold actions that reflect the truth and love of Christ in our world.
— AARON DININNY
[Multiply] Executive Director