THE PURPOSE OF PRAYER
As we entered 2026, the Christian and Missionary Alliance called their people into a 40-day season of prayer. I know many have chosen to even fast during this time. So why do we pray?
A.W. Tozer warned, “Prayer among evangelical Christians is always in danger of degenerating into a glorified ‘gold rush.’” We must guard our hearts from simply seeing prayer as the avenue to “get something from God.”
Warren Wiersbe wrote in his reflections on the Lord’s Prayer that “The immediate purpose of prayer is the accomplishing of God’s will on earth; the ultimate purpose of prayer is the eternal glory of God.”
Years ago, I was preaching a series on prayer. I will never forget that Sunday morning when I stepped into the shower and heard the Holy Spirit gently say, “Prayer is not about you getting what you want. Prayer is about you discovering what I want.” As one who had been in so many prayer meetings where we brought our lists and told God what we wanted Him to do for us (sometimes with instructions on the how and when to do it as well), I was broken with conviction. In that moment, I discovered that prayer was more about surrender than supplication and required listening far more than listing.
North River Church MUST be in a season of prayer! I believe we are at a crossroad, and the decisions we make in the next few weeks and months can determine the measure of the “eternal glory of God among us.
When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He set the “divine standard” for what drives the purpose of prayer.
Prayer is WORSHIP. Prayer must first and foremost be God-centered.
Prayer deepens our relationship with God. Anyone will tell you that good communication is essential for healthy relationships.
Prayer is about expressing thanksgiving, praise, and even love.
Prayer is about submission to the will of the one to Whom we are praying: GOD!
Prayer is about discerning the heart and will of God, which absolutely requires listening. Our ears are so cluttered with so many voices and sounds. Sometimes we find it difficult to hear HIS still, small voice.
Prayer is about presenting petitions, needs, or supplications… but it is making requests to God, not demands.
Prayer is about the eternal glory of God. As we align with Him, His character and will, we see His glory manifested on earth as it is in heaven.
So when we are praying for the next pastor of North River Church… or for our elders and other leaders… or how to steward His resources… or how to reach the lost or hurting with His love, let’s keep the One Who called us to pray at the center of prayer… and hush, and know that He is God… and follow His voice.
Listening with You in Prayer,
Pastor Daryl