If God Is Sovereign, Are My Prayers Pointless?

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  • Опубликовано: 5 дек 2024

Комментарии • 223

  • @DillonLoomis22
    @DillonLoomis22 4 года назад +153

    Such a good question, something I've struggled with for sure
    1) God commands us to ask for what we want (John 15:7)
    2) If we don't, we may not get it (James 4:2)
    3) God plans our prayers just as surely as he plans the events that he performs in answer to our prayers (Luke 22:32)
    Hope everyone continues to put Jesus first one day at a time. Looking forward to communing in heaven 😊

    • @carlotajennifer3536
      @carlotajennifer3536 4 года назад +1

      Electrified thanks! Be blessed 😘

    • @carlotajennifer3536
      @carlotajennifer3536 4 года назад +2

      Rams Fan Sometimes God tests our patience and persistence by delaying the answer to our prayer. He does not give us what we ask right away, but will do it later if we continue to pray. As you, I believe God wants the best for us. Now sometimes, as Jesus explains to the Apostles: "You do not know what you are asking (Mt 20:22)". In other words, what we are asking in good faith is not objectively what is best for us. This does not mean that our prayer will have no effect, but that God will answer it in a way that we did not expect

    • @DillonLoomis22
      @DillonLoomis22 4 года назад +3

      Rams Fan I hear you brother. Rest in God’s sovereignty and goodness. He knows what’s best for you, but sometimes His eternal perspective is very different than our worldly perspective. God has used terrible events in my life to bring about some of the greatest sanctification in me. Keep leaning in to God, study His word.

    • @DillonLoomis22
      @DillonLoomis22 4 года назад

      Carlota Jennifer you too sister 😘

    • @regul8or71
      @regul8or71 4 года назад +1

      James 4:2-3 is very enlightening and revealing about why we sometimes (perhaps often) don’t get what we ask for. Also, see John 14:27

  • @joshuaedward1748
    @joshuaedward1748 4 года назад +8

    4:41 "We pray toward what He tells us to pursue, not by trying to figure out what He sovereignly decrees." well said

  • @regul8or71
    @regul8or71 4 года назад +82

    Maybe we’re largely missing the point. Maybe it’s not about “getting things” or “manipulating God”, but rather, closeness and intimacy with Jesus.

    • @LadyMyriam
      @LadyMyriam 4 года назад +6

      This is what I thought, too. Among other reasons of why we should pray is to ensure we keep a close relationship with God, talking to Him about our hearts desires. Imagine being a parent and your daughter/son never asks anything from you, never shows any need for you in any foam!!

    • @T.Ravikumar
      @T.Ravikumar 4 года назад +1

      When we talk with our children, it's usually a whenever possible (almost always when we see them, during whatever we might be doing). We rarely actually set up a time & sit with them & talk.
      That's why the Bible says "Pray without ceasing". Can you envision how that could be done? That would mean for the New Covenant born-again believer, that his/her life's nature should be one of prayer (24x7). This would be a true reflection of the emotional connect that we have with our Savior.

    • @jeremiahwhitten2052
      @jeremiahwhitten2052 4 года назад +1

      Honestly...I identify with this more than Piper’s reason 2 and 3. Idk if reason 2 and 3 stick with me or make sense too much. Usually I’m sync’d with piper perfectly but this one just isn’t hitting like usual

  • @eatntell1421
    @eatntell1421 3 года назад +10

    I never thought of it this way. I’m the kind of person that thinks if i pray for something grand by my standards, God might automatically not want it for me. And so i waver in praying for it. Thank you for this!

  • @KiranIsaac-g3g
    @KiranIsaac-g3g Год назад +3

    Thank you Pastor John. I have been going through a tough time and feeling discouraged about praying. This has encouraged me more.

  • @firingallcylinders2949
    @firingallcylinders2949 4 года назад +26

    I think this question is something Christians struggle with all the time even Christians who have been saved for a long time. Great explanation, thanks John.

  • @des6289
    @des6289 4 года назад +9

    Very timely. I was asking God this right now and then I found this. Thank you Lord. I will continue praying. God bless both of you.

  • @markwhite2687
    @markwhite2687 3 года назад +4

    I learn so much from these podcasts. Thank You Pastor John!

  • @aocnetwork
    @aocnetwork 4 года назад +23

    So well said!

  • @jerryalakara
    @jerryalakara 4 года назад +2

    Just these past two weeks, I'd been thinking in the mentality of that question. I'm happy for Desiring God.

  • @maame-bev5712
    @maame-bev5712 4 года назад +26

    Our wants should be according to his will not our fleshy desires 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +2

      Maame- Bev
      We don’t know what his wants! Do you?

    • @maame-bev5712
      @maame-bev5712 4 года назад +3

      @@mr.c2485 Yes we do. It's all in his word. If you don't you can read the bible.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Maame- Bev
      I’ve read the Bible many times with its rules and regulations. Most are impossible to comply with or even understand. No one can claim to love their neighbor as themselves or even know what that means. And...trying isn’t doing. What’s more...if you break even the least of the laws you violate them all.
      Now....what were you saying about knowing what god wants?

    • @juri8723
      @juri8723 4 года назад

      Mr. C if you don‘t understand it, it is because you do not believe. The Holy Spirit is able to interpret what is written, not you or me.

    • @maame-bev5712
      @maame-bev5712 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 i didn't ask for you to comment on my comment thanks. Clearly you didn't understand what i wrote. Maybe reread or just pass by. I am not up here for a youtube comment debate mate! I really ain't got that time. Thanks! Next time just keep your comment moving. Bless u

  • @hoysam2011
    @hoysam2011 4 года назад +15

    I pray that I do not receive what I want nor what I deserve but that I receive what I need 🙏

    • @indakgalak
      @indakgalak 4 года назад +3

      “Not our will, but GOD’s will be done!”🙌🏻✝️🙌🏻

    • @angelarogers3137
      @angelarogers3137 Год назад

      Your going to receive what is in God's will for you

  • @arlynmeguillo9971
    @arlynmeguillo9971 3 месяца назад

    I am so blessed. Thank you Pastor John.

  • @sansebastiansj
    @sansebastiansj 4 года назад +5

    The best way to pray is to pray with the child's trust. (if you are an adult or teen of course). The girl asking the question already let the doubt consume her thoughts. Children don't think "Oh, I don't know if my mom will buy me a new toy. Does she have money to buy me a new toy". They just ask. And if they don't get what they want, they cry. So if you want something just cry hysterically at it will be ok. No, I'm joking, but you guys get my point. Trust, and don't let your mind be poisoned by doubt.

  • @humble_garden5039
    @humble_garden5039 4 года назад +7

    I prayed for strength, he gave me trials to overcome.
    I prayed for money, he says I have treasures in heaven.
    He asks.. do I still want money? I said no bcos I'm content with the treasures in heaven.
    Praying is about chit chatting with God. It's love, fun and insightful! Is that pointless? I think it's a gift in itself!

    • @rolandobasaca7167
      @rolandobasaca7167 3 года назад +1

      With God in Jesus, we have a Sovereign Friend. :”)

    • @georginanewby1204
      @georginanewby1204 2 года назад

      I’m not liking the phrase …"chit chatting" with God, because it moves away from being in awe and reverence of God…it instead is too buddy buddy…and my observations and experience show me that this has taken away from my intimacy with God, something I now eagerly and desperately want back.

    • @humble_garden5039
      @humble_garden5039 2 года назад +1

      @@georginanewby1204 you're welcome to pray however you like.
      What others do with God is their business. It's he who sees the heart.

  • @2timothy23
    @2timothy23 4 года назад +3

    I thought this was a good, thorough answer from Pastor John. If I may, I would like to examine this question from another perspective. There seems to be a presupposition behind this question that goes like this, If God is sovereign, then it shouldn't be necessary to pray because God is already bringing it to pass. In other words, we think an indicative about God (who He is, particularly His attribute of sovereignty) conflicts with an imperative to the believer (the command to pray). First, the Bible reveals both. It shows that God is sovereign (Isaiah 46:9-11, Proverbs 16:9, 21:1, Psalm 135:6, Daniel 4:34-35, Acts 2:23, Romans 9, etc.) and that we are commanded/exhorted to pray (Matthew 6:9-13, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, James 4:3, 1 John 3:22, etc.). Both are clearly shown in scripture.
    Second, because both are clearly shown, then this question may have the presupposition that either the indicative or the imperative must be incorrect. In other words, we can only obey the command to pray if God isn't sovereign (basically saying the verses about God's sovereignty is either wrong, incorrect, or misinterpreted) or if God truly is sovereign, then we think the imperative about praying is either wrong, incorrect, or must be ignored. In essence, we want to pit the scriptures against itself to make our obedience to prayer valid. As Pastor John rightly said, we are to obey the revealed commands of God over the decrees not always laid out in detail in scripture but are true based on God's direct revelation from scripture that they are evident (this is the reason Deuteronomy 29:29 says the secret things belong to God, but we are to obey what He has commanded and Romans 11:33-36 tells us the depths of the riches of the knowledge and wisdom of God are past finding out to our finite minds). We should never use God's sovereignty as an excuse to disobey the direct commands in scripture.
    Third, prayer has a deeper meaning then just asking for stuff, it is interceding, intreating, or making supplication in the will of God for things. We pray not just for the desired response, but the right response in the will of God that draws us closer to fellowship with Him. The more you know the Lord through the scriptures (because John 17:17 says the truth of God's Word sanctifies us), the more your prayers will be in line with God's will. In fact, Romans 12:2 tells us to renew our minds so we can ascertain the will of God. This is the reason most of my prayers includes, "if it be your will." Interestingly enough, one Greek word in the NT for prayer is proseuchomai, which not only means make supplication, but worship. Prayer is not just about what we want, but what God will do in His sovereign will as an act of worship to Him. So we can pray in His revealed will, but for things we don't know in His sovereign, we can still pray and ask God to do it if it is in His decree. We're not to worry about what God is doing that is secret to us, but obey what He has clearly revealed.

  • @T.Ravikumar
    @T.Ravikumar 4 года назад +6

    This is one question no one can say they have the answer. The fundamental foundation remains, God is sovereign. We cannot change what He purposes.
    👉🏻But there are some broad principles.
    ✨Pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17). That would mean that prayer becomes the very nature of a born-again believer.
    ✨ The Lord Himself will be praying for us when situations are baffling & we don't know how to go about (Luke 22:32 & Romans 8:26,27 & James 4:3).
    ✨Prayer isn't about answered prayers. Even when we seek God sincerely we may not get a favorable response, but we get reassured about God's secure presence in our lives (2 Cor 12:8,9).
    ✨The true born-again believer is led by his indwelling Holy Spirit to will & to act according to the Lord's purpose (Phil 2:13).

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Ravikumar T
      We aren’t looking to change his purposes. We simply doubt that we are able to comply with the commands...or are they demands?

    • @T.Ravikumar
      @T.Ravikumar 4 года назад +1

      @@mr.c2485 Which specific command/demand given by Jesus were you referring to?

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Ravikumar T
      Would you like them alphabetically or in order of importance?
      Just kidding...
      Let’s begin with the beatitudes. How can anyone know that they are in compliance with even one of those? Poor in spirit? It’s impossible to know that. meekness? Thirst for righteousness? Merciful? Pure in heart? Peacemaker? Persecution? Impossible to know or comply with. And trying isn’t doing.
      Even the act of claiming to possess any of these attributes violates them.

    • @T.Ravikumar
      @T.Ravikumar 4 года назад +1

      @@mr.c2485 🙂True. Your last line makes very good sense. The beatitudes are God's expectations from His children. They wouldn't exactly fit as a command/demand. Infact the beatitudes are the best measure of a person's born-again experience. Even Paul wouldn't agree to possess any of these attributes. He always considered himself to be last among all children of God. However the super hope for all the true born-again believers is our indwelling Holy Spirit of God. He will lead the child of God into exhibiting the beatitudes in their lives.
      "Philippians 2:13"
      ✨"[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight."
      Infact the born-again believer's act of giving his total self, to the complete rule & residence of the Holy Spirit, leading to the beatitudes of Jesus rising up like a fragrance from the believer's life, is true worship (the true Christian living).
      "Romans 12:1"
      ✨"I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship."
      "2 Corinthians 2:15"
      ✨"For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing:"

  • @mizpink1986
    @mizpink1986 3 года назад +7

    Prayer is not just about asking for what you want... It's a way to get closer to our father. Just speaking to him about the weather is prayer.. it's about relationship, trust in him and have faith he will follow through with what's best for us.

    • @jross8569
      @jross8569 3 года назад +1

      Biggest excuses from the believers

    • @L.Fontein7
      @L.Fontein7 9 месяцев назад

      ​@@jross8569 She is working out her salvation and seeking God as we are ALL commanded to do by Him. I sincerely hope that one day He will grant you the grace and spirit of repentance so that you will seek a relationship with Him. I would be much more concerned with that than with knocking someone for their belief and their encouraging, sincere comment as you've done here. You are the one with the problem, not her. We will all stand before God on Judgment Day and give an account of our lives - if you don't know the Lord Jesus Christ you will be condemned to Hell for all eternity. This is the truth - I pray that you find it.

  • @sharonkinsella7435
    @sharonkinsella7435 4 года назад +2

    I wish I could "like" this twice. I walk away from it with so much hope and clarity, ready to go boldly to the throne! Thank you, Pastor John! ♡

  • @ksteak27
    @ksteak27 4 года назад +15

    My pastor answered this question as follows: "God will never do, outside of prayer, what he has willed to do through prayer." Settled the matter for me.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      The K Man
      Sounds legit. I can see God having a lot of down time though. Very few will ever mature to the point where doubt doesn’t destroy their prayers.
      I don’t understand why piper never talks about doubt free prayer. Praying “amiss” is very much a problem.
      That’s probably why his prayers...and I’ve heard a lot of pipes prayers....are so generic. He too, doubts.

    • @smeatonlighthouse4384
      @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад +2

      Why can't professing Christians not just let God be what He is - Sovereign.

    • @indakgalak
      @indakgalak 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 You Sir seem to have not just a low view of Pastor John Piper, but even if GOD!😓 You pretty much judged Pastor John Piper’s prayer life based solely on the few tidbits you heard... And you pretty much judged what GOD is and not doing based on your feeble fallen understanding!🤦🏻‍♀️ Please REPENT of mocking and criticizing others and FOCUS on the BIG LOG in your eyes...🙏🏻✝️🙏🏻

    • @moodberry
      @moodberry 3 года назад +1

      @@mr.c2485 I understand your comments and what drives them because I have the same thoughts. It is NEARLY impossible (though not totally impossible) to discern God's will and pray accordingly. Therefore, those who seek God's will, in a limited sense because we are limited by design, will find His will. That is a written promise. We shall never, even when living with Him forever, know His will in all things. That is why scripture says that even the angels desire to look into these things.
      It seems pointless sometimes, because you can be beaten only so many times before you give up and surrender. You quit trying eventually. But perhaps that is the point! Giving up is what God wants us to do.
      So then we have to ask "Well, if I give up, is there anything left of MY will?" That's the real question.
      I believe the answer to that is a question of trust. Are we willing to trust that God will make us a happy soul who is happy because we are closer and closer to God's will as time passes? If the answer is yes, then over time we become transformed into a personality that more and more truly reflects who God is. This process produces happiness and makes us more like God. If we answer no, then our struggles against sin continue and produces unhappiness. That is the formula, and that is the struggle.
      Therefore, if you want to be happy, quit struggling and surrender!

    • @myballsitchsomethingfierce6319
      @myballsitchsomethingfierce6319 3 года назад

      @@smeatonlighthouse4384 He commands us to pray maybe freewill plays a part.

  • @mount9421
    @mount9421 3 года назад +1

    Great explanation thankyou! This is how i see it as well. God takes future prayers he knows are going to happen and works that into his plans

  • @Ashley-fj9xs
    @Ashley-fj9xs 4 года назад +3

    Thank you, God, for giving us this message from Your Word in Pastor John’s answer. I really needed this answer. I have been praying for it!

  • @ryleighloughty3307
    @ryleighloughty3307 2 месяца назад

    In our earthly and mortal realm, we have the freedom to make our own choices, knowing that they are fully aligned with God's divine will.

  • @Fujji695
    @Fujji695 Год назад

    Brilliant revelation from God through pastor John, may Godbless you all

  • @bigfigism
    @bigfigism 9 месяцев назад +1

    "Hope deferred makes the heart sick" Proverbs 13:12 Thanks God, your so good I want to throw up

  • @danig9071
    @danig9071 4 года назад +6

    I struggle with this. When there is a necessity, like a sickness or something to overcome I pray but then I’m like wait idk if I should pray for what I want or Gods will so I pray both.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Dani G
      Do you think it’s possible to know the will of God so well that your prayers can and will be answered just the way you asked?

    • @danig9071
      @danig9071 4 года назад +1

      Mr. C maybe. I don’t think we can know it but through the Holy Spirit we can pray in alignment with God’s plan.

  • @benitojohngenitojr.5608
    @benitojohngenitojr.5608 4 года назад +3

    I Want to be What the LORD GODFATHER in Christ Wants me to be Everlastingly,... with Earnest Prayers.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Benito John Genito Jr.
      Sounds like a legitimate request....but it’s probably not.

    • @benitojohngenitojr.5608
      @benitojohngenitojr.5608 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 i believe in the LORD GODFATHER in Christ that HE can Make me in TRUTH to BECOME Good in Christ EVERLASTINGLY, but not to Who has Doubts in your Mind and Heart About the Eternal GODFATHER in Christ.do You think you are Good to Everyone?i wish Goodness even to my ENEMY.can You be like me?

  • @benitojohngenitojr.5608
    @benitojohngenitojr.5608 4 года назад +2

    As long as Your Prayers is Out From the Heart of Your Soul in Christ,then TRULY the LORD GODFATHER in Christ HEARS Your PRAYERS and It is SURE That It SHALL COME to PASS in Your Lifes in Christ in ETERNAL REALITY.and don't Worry for You Shall Experience It All as long as Your Souls Lives today and everyday continually Everlastingly.So Be Prayerful Everyday because it is Good to Your Souls in Christ.

  • @earlwilliams5473
    @earlwilliams5473 4 года назад +13

    Even an unanswered prayer will bring you closer to His presence.

    • @nicholascarter6543
      @nicholascarter6543 2 года назад

      Amen

    • @veemon9280
      @veemon9280 2 года назад +1

      How ?
      The longer I watch my mother's unrelenting march towards death the harder I find it to pray about....anything.
      My Mom is going to die a slow and miserable death due to the nature of her disease. That's what the textbooks say.
      I have prayed for a miracle. Even the smallest miracle of her disease slowing down ....but 🤷🏾‍♂️.

  • @GregChacon
    @GregChacon 4 года назад +18

    God does answer prayers and prayer is meaningful. I have seen so many answered prayers I don't know where to begin.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Greg Chacon
      Just need one..

    • @GregChacon
      @GregChacon 4 года назад +2

      @@mr.c2485 What do you mean? Do you mean that you could use just one answered prayer?

    • @indakgalak
      @indakgalak 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 One way to ensure we will get an answered prayer is to pray based on HIS Word... GOD’s Word is the best guide we have to pray according to GOD’s Will!🙏🏻✝️🙏🏻

    • @MoneyBthemotive713
      @MoneyBthemotive713 3 года назад

      What you seen come true was things that was gone happen anyway had nothing to do with god

  • @goseeaboutagirl
    @goseeaboutagirl 4 года назад +9

    “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23:1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

    • @chessversarius2253
      @chessversarius2253 4 года назад

      Question is, I shall not want *what* ...

    • @damienkilcannonvryce
      @damienkilcannonvryce 3 года назад

      @@chessversarius2253 the 23rd Psalm covers any want. It’s a blanket statement that encompasses the human condition

    • @chessversarius2253
      @chessversarius2253 3 года назад

      @@damienkilcannonvryce Interesting... Thank you for sharing.

  • @markboard1966
    @markboard1966 4 года назад +1

    If we are to pray for Gods will to be done then if would be that we are all saved from this fallen world. Because we are blind and die . Jesus save us all from evil .

  • @mollymuch2808
    @mollymuch2808 10 месяцев назад

    Proverbs 16:4 ESV / 1,275 helpful votes
    The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.

  • @HisChild099
    @HisChild099 Год назад

    Thanks for renewing my desire for prayer

  • @tomislavmartic5129
    @tomislavmartic5129 4 года назад +2

    Dear brothers and sisters i greet you in our Lord Jesus Christ
    Four years ago, I began to engage in faith. I started here in Croatia in the catholic church to visit mass and to read The Holy Scriptures. Very early on, I noticed that what is taught and practiced in the catholic church contradicts the Holy Scriptures and what Jesus taught us. In addition, some things in the Holy Bible were unclear to me and raised additional questions and doubts, such as:
    - If our God is the God of love and justice, why are we punished for the sins of Adam? Doesn't that contradict the principles of love and justice? An earthly father who is full of faults and weaknesses would not do such a thing, then how can we think such a thing about our Perfect Father?
    - How can a loving father throw his child forever in the hell? That also contradicts these principles. And besides, in 1 Timothy 2; 3 + 4: "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."
    So, if this were really so, that in spite of His will, people will be brought forever to hell and not saved, this would mean that He can not enforce His will and thus He is not the omnipotent God, if we follow these doctrines believe.
    - Why does it say in some passages that Jesus is the Son of God, in others the Son of Man and in others that He and God are one?
    Although I kept going to the Catholic Mass, at home I no longer practiced the prayers of the catholic church, but started talking like a child to my Father (Matthew 6: 7 + 8 ). After a short while, I got the answer to everything. He guided me through a friend of my mother to the revelations of Bertha Dudde. Now I know that the Bible does not contradict itself. God can not contradict himself. The truth is not in the word, in the letter, but in the understanding, in the interpretation of it. Now I know that Jesus is God and our Father in heaven, and I understand all the processes and contexts, and through this I have come to know that He is the perfect Love and not the strict, punitive God. As he promised us in John 14; 21: "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. "
    16; 12 + 13: "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. "
    16; 25: "These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. "
    In the revelations of Bertha Dudde, His promise was fulfilled, just as every other of His promises was and will be fulfilled, for He never quits (Titus 1: 2) because His word is truth (John 17; 17) and all that will happen is what He said has (Hebrews 10; 23, Ezekiel 12; 25:28, etc.)
    My loved brothers and sisters, I ask you not to blindly believe me, but as written in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 verses 19-21: " Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. "
    Before you begin to look, go into prayer and ask our Father Jesus Christ for enlightenment to put you in your heart, whether that's really His word or not. Do not read with your mind or knowledge, but with your heart, for knowledge (knowledge, understanding) puffeth up, love (heart) edifieth (1 Corinthians 8: 1), for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life (2 Corinthians 3: 6).
    ruclips.net/video/RFK2kg6Qs0M/видео.html
    My dear brothers and sisters, the situation in Christianity is alarming, frightening and very sad and for that very reason the end is near, the time is up. Only in a very small part are the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5; 22) recognizable, and thus only a very few truly belong to Christ, for only those who enjoy the fruits and grow in them are of his (Romans 8: 9).
    "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…" Hosea 4; 6
    I wish you a blessed day my beloved brothers and sisters, May the Love of our Lord Jesus Christ shine through your heart and lead you into the truth.

    • @tomislavmartic5129
      @tomislavmartic5129 4 года назад

      I would urge you to listen to the other sermons of this seminar as well. This seminar is of unimaginable value and has changed my life and it can also change your life.
      ruclips.net/video/StOq3PPfulg/видео.html
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      ruclips.net/video/albA_q9ASQ4/видео.html

    • @hei0919
      @hei0919 4 года назад

      Tomislav Martic i am inspired by your testimony... i also came from a catholic church and have left it long ago as i learned more about the truth stated in the scriptures. It also saddens me that many of our brethrens in the catholic church are blinded from the truth. And just recently, my bf and i broke up because we are not equally yoked.. he is rc and im a born again christian. Its painful for both of us but we really could not agree when it comes to our differences in faith. I’m really praying that he and his family will see the truth really soon. I love him and his family and it is really my desire for them to be unveiled as well. Our situation right now is tormenting him because he finds it confusing. He loves God but finds it hard to believe what i told him about idolatry and malpractices in church. He kept complaining why christians are divided when we only have one God... its really sad :(

  • @BloodCovenant
    @BloodCovenant 3 года назад

    Just as God has ordained that salvation come through the preaching of the gospel, so God has ordained to act on the behalf His saints in response to their prayers.

  • @jamesmagwenzi6058
    @jamesmagwenzi6058 4 года назад +4

    I think we should pray more to be able to conform to the image of God which is our Lord Jesus Christ.
    The rest should be secondary, I think this is what it means to pray according to His will.

    • @T.Ravikumar
      @T.Ravikumar 4 года назад

      True

    • @jedunalivia370
      @jedunalivia370 3 года назад

      Yes, the prayer for sanctification sets your heart right and aligned to God's will so when you ask for the secondary stuff you'll be motivated to ask yourself first... "Will this sportscar I'm praying for glorify God, or am I just asking for it to be popular or be attractive to women." It changes how you see things.

  • @marior.8221
    @marior.8221 4 месяца назад

    He wants us to keep praying but he may not grant us those wishes. While it may be useless to us to keep praying, it is however very useful to Him because it gives him proof that if what we ask for is not in line with his wishes, He can use that to justify kicking us off the team. It certainly has a purpose for his glory but for us not so much. Maybe that's why they said to separate the chaff from the wheat.

  • @Ben-qb3xe
    @Ben-qb3xe 3 года назад +1

    Praise God!!!

  • @lastfirst23163
    @lastfirst23163 4 года назад +4

    The short answer is cause God told us to! A good book to read on this subject is “Trusting God”.

  • @stevenenciso5023
    @stevenenciso5023 4 года назад

    Thank you pastor. This has helped me greatly.

  • @KhandiiedYams1039
    @KhandiiedYams1039 4 года назад

    In reference to 7:33 in particular...
    I struggle with this feeling as well. I feel like I'm nagging the Lord when I pray(once or repeatedly) for something.
    I feel as though it's almost rude to ask or expect him to change whatever his will is. Sure, he can be fully trusted to change said will to something else or by some other means but, like, he clearly chose his decision... for a reason... which I cannot fathom nor should feel obligated to know.
    Praying for something else feels like second guessing him. It also comes off to me as if 'you' think he is unaware of whatever causes u to pray. And ur being impatient or doubtful of his capability.
    If he was open to your thoughts and feelings, maybe he would let you know?... So maybe then you'd be OK to pray for a different approach...
    Idk, I've just always felt weird praying in general, aside from normal: 'thank you, praise be to you'
    I understand this is not a commonplace type of idea, and I get how some people pray about everything. But I personally just feel weird 'expecting' anything from my prayers.

  • @kenfithen588
    @kenfithen588 7 месяцев назад

    Yes. If God has already determined everything to happen according to His sovereign will, then why pray? Why witness? Why read the Bible? Why go to church? If everything is going to turn out the way God has decreed it, it is logical to assume that prayer is useless.

  • @mariac6280
    @mariac6280 2 года назад

    just pray within your heart and soul. let God will be done! He knows what you need!

  • @haydenthomas5690
    @haydenthomas5690 2 года назад

    Most helpful video ever from desiring god

  • @smeatonlighthouse4384
    @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад +1

    Have you never heard of praying in the Spirit. That is the Holy Spirit prompting your mind as to what to pray for which will be according to the will of God. Secondly, we do not have to pray with the 'gimmee's'. Always asking for ourselves and what we 'think' others need. So often it is God's grace that is needed and not all our selfish desires. Thirdly, when we study God's word and see the marvellous things God has done for us in Christ Jesus and what He is doing according to His purposes, then our prayers will be of praise then worship to our wonderful Saviour, the Lord Jesus and to God our Father.

  • @bekaludile1281
    @bekaludile1281 4 года назад +8

    That is my prayer life challenge. I , sometimes wonder if God cares for me .it's seems wondering in wilderness

    • @ruzinninarciso4901
      @ruzinninarciso4901 4 года назад +1

      Same, I feel you.

    • @jamesmagwenzi6058
      @jamesmagwenzi6058 4 года назад +1

      I think God will be trying to show you to seek him first above everything else. Just a thought.

    • @AlanaL3
      @AlanaL3 4 года назад +2

      Bekalu Dile he does care...prayer is truly powerful, like the Bible says it is, please read the scriptures and see how Calvinism contradicts so much with it, it cannot be true!!

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Alana L
      SAY WHAT?

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Bekalu Dile
      When you pray, don’t tell THE truth. Pray YOUR truth! God never refuses those kind of prayers.

  • @May-zp1mr
    @May-zp1mr 3 года назад +1

    Bottomline- we have no true will and there isn’t true purpose to prayer because He manipulates our thoughts, our hearts, our events, etc. Ultimately, if we don’t get the peace or healing we have been praying for years for, we can direct the lack of outcome to at some point ceasing to pray for it??
    For someone who wants a relationship with us, he sure makes it more and more complicated to decipher.

  • @ZERO_0594
    @ZERO_0594 4 года назад

    Hi everyone I have been struggling with my inner problem please pray for me thank you Amen and God bless you 😇🙏✝️

  • @pillarson2084
    @pillarson2084 2 года назад +1

    God commands us to ask anything we want, but He never give everything we ask! I prayed many times asking for something, but every time a person who's never pray gets it what i asked for. It's better not to pray and not getting what i want than praying and not getting.

    • @lettus143
      @lettus143 Год назад

      Every prayer is an act of faith!

  • @Ben-qb3xe
    @Ben-qb3xe 3 года назад +2

    YOOOOOOO THIS IS AMAZING

  • @tonysouthern2092
    @tonysouthern2092 3 года назад

    Many use prayer as a wish list, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In Aramaic to pray means to align. So when we do come to the Lord and pray we need to align with his perspective, with an open honest heart,so that we can be changed according to his will. That is why we pray it is not for gifts and such. He isn’t a celestial Santa Claus. I suppose we can ask him for anything that is true and we can ask him for things that we want because God does want us to be part of the process. However, I have found that aligning with God and what we think he would want is much more effective in my life than just throwing up a whole bunch of wishes.

  • @dasungham
    @dasungham 4 года назад +1

    Thank you

  • @fernandoabascal6295
    @fernandoabascal6295 Год назад

    The question arises again, why should I do anything at all if GOD already has everything planned and if I trust him he will provide?

  • @HG51_
    @HG51_ 2 года назад

    Very good explanation, thank you

  • @kzuk9237
    @kzuk9237 4 года назад

    I am noticing that when Christians talk and teach about prayer, prayer is equated with “ask to get something.” Is that all prayer is? Are we forgetting that this is just one aspect of prayer (asking)? If that is all we are concerned about, then is it the biblical God whom we are coming to (or a fast food drive through window)? God wants fellowship...if that fellowship becomes us and our lists of wants, something is amiss. It is hard to find sermons, books, or anything that talk about prayer in words and concepts other than us asking for God to do something. This question should be framed in a way that describes the whole of what prayer is, not just “give me our daily bread.”

  • @MarzyChrista1212
    @MarzyChrista1212 4 года назад

    Wow thank you Pastor John this is really good word to my soul! Thank you!

  • @lukewagner8871
    @lukewagner8871 4 года назад +1

    Luke 11:1-4 KJVS
    [1] And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. [2] And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. [3] Give us day by day our daily bread. [4] And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Luke Wagner
      The Pharisees recited scripture daily and memorized it....probably better than you or I. I don’t need to tell you what Jesus thought of them.

    • @lukewagner8871
      @lukewagner8871 4 года назад

      Mr. C www.justifiedfreely.com/?p=564

  • @kenfithen588
    @kenfithen588 7 месяцев назад

    God brings about all things in accordance with his will in other words, it isn’t just that God manages to turn the evil aspects of our world to good for those who love him,it is rather that He himself brings about these evil aspects for his glory. This includes as incredible and unacceptable as it may currently seem, God having even brought about the Nazis brutality of Birkenau and Auschwitz, as well as the terrible killing byDennis Rader, and even the sexual abuse of a young child.”

  • @3ggshe11s
    @3ggshe11s Год назад

    Yes.
    The answer is yes.

  • @kathleenwharton2139
    @kathleenwharton2139 4 года назад

    "Gods Will Be Done" Give us our daily bread. Forgive us..as we forgive. Deliver us from evil. We can Pray this prayer! It is not pointless.

    • @smeatonlighthouse4384
      @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад +1

      If you just pray the prayer that the Lord Jesus taught his disciples, then it is vain repetition. If you use it as a pattern it can be very helpful. It will be fulfilled when Jesus returns to the earth to reign at His second coming.

    • @kathleenwharton2139
      @kathleenwharton2139 4 года назад

      Smeaton Lighthouse
      Have you told Jesus His Prayer is vain repetition? The Father knows what we need before we ask.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Smeaton Lighthouse
      I’m curious....why would the requests in his pattern prayer not apply until after the fact?

    • @smeatonlighthouse4384
      @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад +1

      @@kathleenwharton2139 Read the verses, it says 'Jesus said, when YE pray, say . . .' It is not the Lord's prayer, but a prayer for them to follow the example.
      What part of thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven, is being carried out now at this present time? We are living in the most godless society with every sin and corruption of the flesh being accepted as normal, and all that is pure and correct according to God's word is rejected and we are called bigots or homophobic, etc. The prayer will be fulfilled when Christ is reigning in righteousness on the earth after His second coming. Satan will be chained in the bottomless pit and his influence on the earth will be removed. Christ WILL BE king in practice then. Anyone who thinks He is reigning as king now does not understand scripture. The god (small g) of this world is Satan and he holds sway.

    • @smeatonlighthouse4384
      @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад +1

      @Huey Leadbetter What has Matthew ch. 18 v 4 got to do with prayer. It is in reference to child like faith when coming to Christ. Children do not doubt like adults. You are correct if it is a sincere prayer, but what has repetition of an example got to do with sincerity? It is just self righteous gratification of the flesh. Where is the Spirit leading and prompting?

  • @BrandiNaCole
    @BrandiNaCole 2 года назад +1

    I don't hear any anointing from the Holy Spirit on this at all. He sounds like he makes sense to him and him alone.

    • @melvapryor9868
      @melvapryor9868 2 года назад +1

      I agree. This didn’t make sense.

  • @ogechukwuokpala9607
    @ogechukwuokpala9607 4 года назад +1

    Thanks so much for answering this question! Has been a source of befuddlement for me for a while :)

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад

      Ogechukwu Okpala
      You actually got an answer out of that?

    • @ogechukwuokpala9607
      @ogechukwuokpala9607 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 hi yeah, what did you think?

  • @exaucemayunga22
    @exaucemayunga22 2 года назад

    Can we just pray for God to do his will rather than what we want? Can we change God's will?

  • @heavensent607
    @heavensent607 4 года назад

    God is just trying to let the world see the evil. That’s why he’s got me going in circle . It was written for me to screw up so he can show the world that heaven exist. It’s been his duty since the beginning of time. How many chances do we let evil go on before the solution?

  • @leejaysalanatin4127
    @leejaysalanatin4127 3 года назад

    Amen!

  • @stevehicks399
    @stevehicks399 3 года назад

    I think the bigger question is what are our motives?

  • @shebelieves9650
    @shebelieves9650 4 года назад

    Amazing 👏🙏❤️

  • @TheVoltWithin
    @TheVoltWithin 3 года назад

    Man. James 4:2 is so simple, but I have totally missed this...

  • @alexbooyse9053
    @alexbooyse9053 2 месяца назад

    Listened to this 3 times now, and it still is meaningless

  • @randomstuff1666
    @randomstuff1666 3 года назад +1

    I BELIEVE WITH ALL MY HEART THAT PRAYER WORKS, BUT I LEARN IT THE HARD WAY THAT PRAYER DOESN'T WORK, PRAYER IS PRETTY USELESS, IT'S JUST CONFIRMATION BIAS, PRAYER HAS NO EFFICACY WHATSOEVER, PRAYER IT'S JUST WISHFUL THINKING AND BEGGING, GOD WILL NOT ANSWER ANY PRAYER, CHRISTIAN OR NOT, HOLY OR UNHOLY, GOOD PERSON OR BAD PERSON, GOD DOESN'T ANSWER PRAYER AND THAT IS A FACT!....

  • @justinepang7753
    @justinepang7753 4 года назад +2

    So my prayers are part of His plan, then if I am not praying, is that also part of His plan or is that my sinfulness?

    • @GregChacon
      @GregChacon 4 года назад +2

      It would be our sinfulness. He commands that we pray, therefore, if we don't pray then we're not obeying one of his commandments. I think that when it comes to prayer, they are all desires that are induced by the Holy Spirit. Sure, they're are "your" desires; however, they are desires that would not be there if it had not been for the Holy Spirit inhabiting you and providing you with new desires. These desires stem from God's desires, mind, and will. Instead of asking what the point is of prayer, I think we should recognize that the desires that God indues in our hearts to pray are the "means" by which he accomplishes his plans. Are prayers really do matter. If you see no point in praying because you have a fatalist mentality, then pray for purposes of obedience and your love for Jesus. Pray because you want to spend time with him because you love him.

  • @dylanschweitzer18
    @dylanschweitzer18 2 года назад

    I feel like I have not gotten a satisfying enough answer to this question other than, "Cuz God said so". Which is fine, but itsnt intellectually satisfying enough.
    Ironically, I ask for others to pray for me to have God bring understanding of the bigger picture of praying, specifically for other people.

  • @davidcrane6593
    @davidcrane6593 4 года назад

    Prayers... Are what we got...besides loving our brothers... Prayers are our part...forgiveness.. Hope...faith... Love....

  • @christianvalenzuela438
    @christianvalenzuela438 3 года назад +2

    So basically you should pray for what you want, but the thing you want can't be what you really want, but what God wants. It seems to me that your true desires/wishes don't count for God. This might be bad to say, but I have to be honest here.

  • @thomasmcewen5493
    @thomasmcewen5493 3 года назад

    I have a question Have you read the 147 volumes of the Fathers all 60,300 pages ?

  • @vico100
    @vico100 4 года назад

    Great!

  • @nick8252
    @nick8252 Год назад

    2:55
    4:05 **
    7:00
    9:13 *

  • @fernandoabascal6295
    @fernandoabascal6295 Год назад

    First 2 points are enlightening, the third one not so much that invalidates the first 2.

  • @RachelWeeping
    @RachelWeeping 11 месяцев назад

    ❤it means nothing

  • @MoneyBthemotive713
    @MoneyBthemotive713 3 года назад

    So before ink and Bible codes everybody went to hell ??

  • @micahbronaugh
    @micahbronaugh 2 года назад

    Good

  • @kenb7536
    @kenb7536 4 года назад +1

    Really? So when a Christian is lazy and doesn’t pray that means God also willed that in His sovereign will? 🤔 Deal with both sides of the coin, not just one side.

  • @mr.c2485
    @mr.c2485 4 года назад

    There are three levels of prayer:
    #1. Kingdom prayer
    #2. Power prayer
    #3. Glory prayer
    Few will ever mature past kingdom prayer. Those are “milk” prayers which lack commitment but are necessary for exposure to doubt.

    • @humble_garden5039
      @humble_garden5039 4 года назад +1

      Can you please explain further. Thanks it sounds interesting.

    • @mr.c2485
      @mr.c2485 4 года назад +1

      Humble_Garden
      The last sentence of the Lord’s Prayer emphasizes the possessive nature of God. Christ didn’t simply add that sentence to the prayer for acknowledgment purposes, it’s there for instructional purposes as well.
      Kingdom prayer is, as I stated, milk prayer or infantile prayer. Important for exposing doubt, and necessary for further inquiry. Still considerable doubt.
      Power prayer is for those who, after considerable tests and trials have taught themselves to find purpose and power in all things. Doubt has been eliminated.
      Glory prayer is particularly rare. It no longer comes from the mind of a man as that man no longer exists. The purity of this kind of communion with God cannot be expressed by words or logic....so it cannot be shared with others.

    • @humble_garden5039
      @humble_garden5039 4 года назад

      @@mr.c2485 very interesting. I will learn more about it. Thanks

  • @SoraeOchi
    @SoraeOchi 3 месяца назад

    man , this person at least has prayer life

  • @sihlezulu9200
    @sihlezulu9200 4 года назад

    This is so powerful

  • @mr.c2485
    @mr.c2485 4 года назад

    You can sugarcoat it any way you want. Prayer for most is just “mud slinging”. Ive heard many of pipers “prayers” and they all have one thing in common...he attempts to tell or ask THE “truth”. He never prays HIS truth.
    His are little more than petitions for more information or revelation based on his characterization of god. Not a word of self truth. His are “ milk” prayers.

  • @developer101
    @developer101 2 года назад

    Downright foolish.

  • @stewart_92
    @stewart_92 4 года назад

    He should of corrected the question immediately. Prayer in essence is not about seeing what “you wish” come to pass. Prayer is about drawing near to God in intimacy and relationship. The closer you get to him, the more you know his will then your prayers become effectual. Prayer isn’t a gumball machine, it’s a love relationship with a person.

  • @jelle3853
    @jelle3853 4 года назад

    When the believes of the disciples were not bigger then a mustard seed... How big is our faith in Jezus Christ?

  • @floralwood_
    @floralwood_ 4 года назад +2

    I really wish God would grant me things I want :/

    • @myballsitchsomethingfierce6319
      @myballsitchsomethingfierce6319 3 года назад

      Nah he cares to much, it's like your child begging for candy for supper, might now hurt that day but wait until they have to go to the dentist for a cavity.

    • @floralwood_
      @floralwood_ 2 года назад

      so God will not answer my prayers

  • @RachelWeeping
    @RachelWeeping 11 месяцев назад

    You shouldn't

  • @Sumtingwongbruh123
    @Sumtingwongbruh123 4 года назад

    I think i know god now. I dont need anything now. Good bye world? Si in nara mother truckers...? O.o blasphemies...?

    • @Sumtingwongbruh123
      @Sumtingwongbruh123 4 года назад

      Ty john for staying faithful to the faith. Man of god, id say

  • @JohnQPublic11
    @JohnQPublic11 4 года назад +2

    *"IF"* reformed theology is true, and if sovereignty is defined as Calvinists define sovereignty, *"THEN"* not only is the act of pondering the question posed in this video meaningless, but Christ is meaningless, and humanity itself is not only meaningless but nonexistent! That's how dumb reformed theology is!

    • @ReaganThatcher
      @ReaganThatcher 4 года назад

      John Q. Public - it’s not reformed theology, it’s just the Bible

    • @JohnQPublic11
      @JohnQPublic11 4 года назад +1

      @@ReaganThatcher --- Try to keep up. All the little silly memes you guys use have been soundly debunked. There's a real debate going on out there and you guys don't even have a clue what the debate is about!

    • @ReaganThatcher
      @ReaganThatcher 4 года назад

      John Q. Public - I’ve never shared a meme so I’m not really sure what you’re referring to. There is no real debate, there is only scripture...only God’s infallible word. It is not up for debate.

    • @JohnQPublic11
      @JohnQPublic11 4 года назад +1

      @@ReaganThatcher --- lol! Ron, you're memeing again. Nobody on earth ever heard of reformed theology for the first 1500 years. Then the Calvinist cult came along and told everybody God's word was fallible and that they were doing it wrong? Funny that.

    • @ReaganThatcher
      @ReaganThatcher 4 года назад

      John Q. Public - Your understanding of memes is nearly as empty as your understanding of theology. Have a good day trolling

  • @JonathanGrandt
    @JonathanGrandt 4 года назад +1

    Sigh. Can’t stand this guy.

  • @justusalmondwilliams9102
    @justusalmondwilliams9102 4 года назад

    No, the purpose of praying is to give you hope. Prayer is a pep talk to yourself. It is supposed to fire us up so we worship ALL DAY LONG. If you don’t worship all day long, you seriously need to thoroughly examine your walk. I thought I was a Christian for 42 years. I was a very lukewarm Christian. You do not want to get spit out. That was a direct reference to Jonah for those who don’t know. Jonah was the only sign Jesus ever gave. The Firstborn of the Dead will have a testimony like Samuel and Jonah (being called all his life) and Paul. Trust me on this one, if your inclination is to scoff. Capture that thought if so and be grateful because the world is about to change. What is the best food for the heart? Almonds. I have been given the cure for a broken heart. This will be a very special Easter for those who choose to believe. Someone has risen from the dead.
    Jesus should have told the disciples to read the book of Daniel when he told them how to pray. Paul told us exactly how to pray. We are to pray believing whatever we ask for will come true. If we pray according to his will everything comes true all the time. This is why he said to pray with thanksgivng. Belief is far more powerful than you ever imagined. Seek knowledge above all else. It will lead to true belief, which will lead to true repentance, which will lead to completion. Full self-actualization. Eternity is written on all of our hearts.
    "O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."
    The calf reversal prayer.

    • @smeatonlighthouse4384
      @smeatonlighthouse4384 4 года назад

      @@mandyg9119 When we pray in God's will we are to pray in Jesus name. That means that we will be praying as if it was Jesus Himself who was praying the prayer. The Lord's prayers were always His Father's will, never His own, except in the garden, when as a representative for man, He said 'never the less, not my will but thine be done', after He had said 'if it be possible let this cup pass from me'. Many of our prayers are not answered or rejected because they are all about what 'I want' and not what the Lord Jesus would have desired.

  • @studplayrico
    @studplayrico 3 года назад +2

    Why the evil prosper and get their wants?