If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
— 2 Chronicles 7:14
William Tyndale was the first person to translate the Bible from Hebrew and Greek into English, making a Bible for the common people. But in 1535, he was betrayed by a friend and taken prisoner. Yet he continued to work on his translation even during his incarceration.
Sadly, Tyndale was unable to finish his work because he was sentenced to die a heretic’s death: strangulation and burning at the stake. And on October 6, 1536, he cried out his last words, “Lord, open the king of England’s eyes!” and then he died. His prayer was answered within a year—albeit in an unexpected way—when the Church of England was founded under King Henry VIII.
Most people never truly understand the power their prayers can have. They may make mention of a request, forget about it, and never really appreciate when it’s answered. But when we pray, God wants us to remember our prayers so that we can recognize and give glory to His faithfulness when they’re answered.
Prayer has power. It has the power to impact our days, change lives, and shake the world if only those who are called by God would pray. So don’t just think about praying. Pray powerfully in the Spirit and watch how God shakes the world through you!
Prayer Challenge
Pray that God would open your eyes to the power of prayer.
Questions for Thought
Why do you think many people neglect to pray when they’re in need?
How can you make prayer a powerful part of your regular daily routine?