GOD shared with me that when we are praying for something according to the Word and the Spirit, we should not allow ourselves to become isolated from the community of believers we are connected to. The adversary will try to cause us to become isolated by using past experiences, misunderstandings, lack of esteem, unforgiveness, pride, fear, bitterness, etc and use these to try to keep us from connecting with each other. The power of unity allows for us to collectively combat the kingdom of darkness that tries to hinder the answers to our prayers and the Glory of GOD.
The LORD reminded me that when JESUS was on the earth, some miracles couldn’t be done in certain regions because of unbelief. Remember, it wasn’t necessarily the unbelief of those looking to receive the answer but unbelief of those around. The LORD shared with me that in this present day, unbelief and wickedness are growing stronger thus allowing the kingdom of darkness to gain ground. However, the church must be bold in its stance to show forth the GLORY of GOD and be the light of the world.
John 16:9 says “The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me.” HE goes on to say in verses 23-24 (regarding when HE sent HOLY SPIRIT), “At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.” And in verse 33, HE concludes with “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
So what does this all mean for you right now. Be encouraged. GOD who lives in you has overcome this world and has put this same power in you to overcome the world. GOD loves you and bridges the gap between heaven and earth for you so that you could have power over the forces of this world that try to deceive you about GOD’s love for you and the power you have to take dominion in this earth. So as you begin to pray (or have already prayed), know that “…since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for. (1 John 5:15 NLT)” This is the foundational truth you must believe when you pray AND know that GOD is not trying to keep you waiting for the answer/manifestation to your prayer. We know that principalities try to hinder the answer to cause us discouragement and disbelief. So when you pray, remember:
- Repent – “Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19-20a
- Believe – “I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours.” Mark 11:24 NLT
- Forgive – “But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” Mark 11:25 NLT
- Live righteously – “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16 NLT