God had no problem in running the universe before we were on the scene. He needs nothing from us, not even our wise counsel (Isaiah 40:13; Acts 17:24-25; Romans 11:34). Indeed, “your Father knows what you need before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8). Therefore, in one sense, God does not need our prayers. Why, then, has God given such prominence to the asking, this thing called “prayer”?
The answer is found in what God chose to do.
He chose to create a universe that included a man and a woman. He chose to be friends with them, enjoying their company in the cool of the evening. He allowed them the wonder of “choice” and they used it against Him. But He chose to redeem them and their offspring by His own blood. He chose to offer another start—a new birth of water and Spirit. Those thus born through His Son’s death and resurrection He adopted as sons. He chose to have them call Him, without pretense, “Father.”
He chose to give to them privileges in keeping with their rank as sons of the Most High. He wrote them into heaven’s will as co-heirs. He seated them with His unique Son in the heavenly realm. He gave to them free right of access into His presence. The children were invited to come and speak with their Father, just as the first couple had in the Garden. None of this was forced; He did so of His own choice, out of His own kindness.
He chose to tie privileges to responsibilities, for that too befitted their princely position. He chose to enroll His children as co-workers with Him, sharing Jesus’ message and loving care with the world. He chose for the responsibility to be real: true “fruit for eternal life” would reward diligence, and negligence would result in terrible consequences.
In His great mercy, He chose to help them carry this load of responsibility. He gave them His Spirit. He empowered them to accomplish what seemed impossible. As the link to His power He chose the line called “prayer” which was already available to His children. He chose for its effectiveness to depend on faith, which was already in place for receiving the new birth of water and Spirit. In the clearest terms He assured them of the success their prayers would enjoy. He even demonstrated, through His Christ and apostles, the world-changing power of prayer.
Now it is our turn. The King places that awesome, mountain-moving power into our hands. He invites us to use our mustard seed of faith, to take the first step that leads to stronger prayers. Our lives will never be the same. We will discover what it means to be princes working with their Father-King, Sovereign over all creation. Beings heavenly and earthly watch us intently. The royal privilege and responsibility now rest on our shoulders. That amazing invitation from heaven comes to us. “Ask, and it shall be given to you!” Heaven awaits our response….