Prayer is mysterious — especially if you’re a new follower of Jesus or unsure of your beliefs.
After all, God doesn’t always answer with a “yes,” does he? Sometimes, it’s a “no.” Other times, it’s “wait.” Or, there is no answer at all.
But prayer is more than just asking God for things. He’s not a genie or butler. Prayer is designed to deepen our relationship with him, bring us into alignment with his will and to worship and thank him for everything he’s done for us.
As famed preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, “True prayer is neither a mere mental exercise nor a vocal performance. It is far deeper than that; it is spiritual transaction with the Creator of Heaven and Earth.”
Praying not only brings us closer to God. It has several other practical and spiritual benefits. Check out some of the biggest ones.
Prayer Reduces Anxiety
It’s almost impossible to be anxious and thankful at the same time. Since gratitude is an important part of prayer — see The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6 for an example — it’s no surprise that it brings supernatural peace. Even in the midst of anxiety, mental struggles and troubling circumstances, prayer can be a tremendous comfort.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Prayer Provides Direction
Sometimes, we just don’t know what to do, and that’s okay. God designed us with a need for him in every way, not just for provision, but for wisdom and direction as well. The Holy Spirit will guide our steps if we open ourselves up to him. Even if you don’t receive clear direction, you are acknowledging God and that you need his guidance, which glorifies him.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach.” (James 1:5)
Prayer Strengthens Faith
You don’t get stronger without some form of testing. Just like physical exercise builds your muscles, your spiritual muscles grow when you depend on God in the midst of uncertainty and trials. The more you turn to him and think about his character and faithfulness, the stronger your faith will become and the less dependent you’ll be on feelings.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
Prayer Comforts Others
Prayer is a powerful way to love and serve others. For one, just knowing that someone is praying for you is comforting. But God honors intercessory prayer for others and sees these as acts of selflessness. (Oh, and the next time you offer to pray for someone, try to actually do it — on the spot, if you can.)
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1)
Prayer Reduces Temptation
Prayer is part of the ongoing process to look more like Jesus (AKA sanctification). It opens our hearts to the Holy Spirit’s refining work and helps us better withstand the enemy’s temptations. In my experience, one of the biggest reasons we fall into temptation is because we don’t even try to resist it. But prayer, worship music and reading the Bible are all tools that can break the desire to sin.
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
These are just a few examples of prayer’s benefits, but the list goes on. From advancing God’s kingdom to providing spiritual power and protection, prayer is an essential part of the Christian life. As Martin Luther stated, “to be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.”
In the good times and bad, when you feel like it and when you don’t…never stop praying.
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