Just a thought…
Often when I’m around people that are praying I hear things like:
“Lord we just pray that you would….”
“We’re just asking that you…”
“Lord, just show up tonight…”
I’m not trying to be hyper-critical or anything; I just feel like it’s time we drop the just when we pray. It’s as if we’re asking God to do something in our lives as long as it’s not too much of an inconvenience for Him.
In all of these cases the word just comes off… well… just so passive. It’s like what we’re really saying is, “Hey it’d be nice if you could lend a hand down here God, that is of course if you’re not tied up.”
Or:
“Hey God, I know you have a lot to do so if you could just get this one tiny favor taken care of I’d really appreciate it.”
When I read scripture I read things like:
“If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face… I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
“You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it… Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!” (John 14:13-14)
“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20)
“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:16)
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:5-6)
I propose that we eliminate the “just-prayers” from our repertoire. They seem so wimpy. Let’s boldly ask, believe, and expect God to act on our behalf. We serve a risen savior who is for us; in fact, He says we’re going to do even greater things than He did:
“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works…” (John 14:12)
To borrow a phrase from a friend of mine, “Let’s pray dangerous prayers,” and let’s not be so shocked when He answers!
Just sayin’…
